Character Drives The Story

Movement, activity and events. These are important ways in which stories unfold.

Important as they are, what makes a story compelling to me are the characters involved. I can understand how action set-pieces have captured the imagination of some. The level of them and their impact on a story can raise the expectation and excitement in the given moment. There is something significant, however, about character.

Some people are reluctant to talk about history by focusing on characters. They are reluctant to do so because of the likelihood to allow reputation and speculation to mythologise figures and distort history. The reluctance is also about how history is as much about those individuals who never garner as much attention as the larger figures in history. No battle is won without soldiers who may never get recognition even as the generals and decision-makers get their statutes and biopics made.

Understandable though those concerns are, for me, that actually highlights the role of the character. We may never pay attention to the so called little guy, but even their character and their contribution to the bigger picture can be fascinating in itself. It’s the character that drives the story. The factors that shape the character, their responses, their development, their ups and downs – all of that is what makes the story captivating and moving.

Those elements are not just of use in the sense of history or fiction, it plays a massive part in relationships. It helps us a great deal figuring out why we are here and what we can do going forward. It’s why it’s so fascinating when we meet to find out each other’s story and see what light that shines on us and a greater character worth reflecting.

I’m grateful for the movement, activity and events – I am particularly grateful for the character that moves the story.

(Photo by Антон Воробьев on Unsplash)

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

C. L. J. Dryden