Understanding Authorial Control: When Characters Steal the Show

It is fascinating how authors craft characters that sometimes seem to have a mind of their own. The very essence of storytelling involves creating compelling and complex personas, but what happens when these very beings take the reins and begin to dictate the narrative? This article explores how authors might lose control over their characters and what can be done to reclaim it. By understanding the dynamics involved, writers can enhance their storytelling abilities and ensure a cohesive and engaging narrative.

The Pitfall of Character Dominance

The most common way that authors may lose control over their characters is through the character's dominance over the narrative. When this occurs, the author might find themselves tossing off their well-planned storyline in an attempt to align with the character's desires and actions. This is similar to a train conductor taking the helm of the locomotive, despite their only assigned role being to collect tickets and ensure passengers adhere to the schedule.

Character Personality Overrun

Characters that have such a strong personality can often dominate a story, leading to lost authorial control. It's important to remember that while developing a dynamic and relatable protagonist is essential, it is equally crucial to maintain a balance that serves the overall narrative. Some characters might exude such a strong presence that they become the driving force of the story, taking an uninvited turn and potentially steering the plot in unexpected directions, often thwarting the author's original intentions.

Recognizing the Loss of Control

While errors related to authorial control can often be identified during the editing phase, some may still slip through. This is where the distinction between character-driven narratives and authorial control becomes crucial. The author must be attentive to when their character is becoming too independent, taking the narrative in directions they did not envisage. These moments might manifest as plot points that feel disconnected from the main storyline or characters whose actions contradict the overall theme of the novel. Identifying these areas can be challenging, but it is a necessary step in maintaining a cohesive and compelling narrative.

Strategies for Maintaining Control

To prevent characters from usurping the narrative, authors can implement several strategies. Planning and rewriting are fundamental. Outlining the basic plot and defining key character arcs before writing can help set the framework for the manuscript. This way, the author has a clear roadmap to refer back to when the characters begin to exhibit dominant behavior.

Dialogue and descriptions should serve the narrative, not the other way around. Authors must ensure that the dialogue and internal monologues align with the intended plot and character development. Consistent character arcs and motivations are also crucial. Returning to the theme or moral of the story frequently can help keep the story focused and on track.

Case Studies

Reflecting on well-known novels, there are several examples where an overbearing character led to an interesting and sometimes successful story, but also provided lessons on how to exercise authorial control more effectively. For instance, the character of Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is a prime example of a character that dominates the narrative. Gatsby's charisma and desires are so compelling that they make the story an engrossing read. However, the author maintains control by ensuring that Gatsby's flaws and motivations are consistent with the theme of the novel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while characters are integral to any novel, it is imperative that authors retain control over their narratives. By recognizing the signs of character dominance and employing strategies to maintain a balance, authors can ensure that their stories remain cohesive and compelling. The writer's ability to control the storyline is key to creating a narrative that resonates with readers and stands the test of time.