Motivation, Motivation, Motivation

In my day job, I teach writing. I'm immersed in story and all its aspects throughout the school year. I read constantly, so I'm immersed in story there, too. And then, of course, I write romance. Tonight my students got to hear a former DC now Marvel Comics writer talk about the writing process from beginning to the final product. One of the things he talked about was motivation, and how as a writer you have to know your characters' motivations for everything they do and say. It reminded me of the days I used to hang out on eHarlequin editor Leslie Wainger's page. She always said "It's all in the execution."As a reader, I'll follow an author down some pretty dark paths if actions are truly motivated (Tammy Hoag, Lisa Jackson, Sharon Sala), but that motivation has to be real. If it's gimmicky or there for the sake of reader reaction instead of something that feels like a natural extension of the character's life as presented, I'm out of there. I think that might be why successful anti-hero stories work. The viewer doesn't condone the protagonist's actions, but we understand why. Dexter, Breaking Bad, The Soprano's: they all use motivation to sell the story.Earlier this week I talked about hating Don Draper these days. I almost think all the motivation plots this season make me despise him more. I mean I kind of want to say "Wah, wah, wah. Stop trying to make him a victim and let him own who he is" to the writers. I've got a lot to think about tonight. Best part of tonight: my students telling me the pro on the stage repeated what I tell them all the time. I guess I'm doing something right. :) #*****
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Currently reading: On the Way to the Wedding by Julia QuinnCurrently listening to: The silence in my hotel roomCurrently wishing for: An open Starbucks within walking distance!Currently dreaming of: Winter.