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How does a heroine who is always in trouble, not realize she is always in trouble?
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A complicated anti-heroine?
I have a power-seeking guile heroine from tumultuous circumstances who always gets in over her head, and a reluctant hero who keeps saving her. It's a pattern. She (more or less) stays the same, it's just her schemes that get bigger.
She's a con-artist with a broken moral compass, but she's also suppose to be intuitive when it comes to reading other people, the idea is she is a bit empathic (not supernaturally, just plot-wise) but also a bit of a sociopath who mirrors the morals and goals of those around her. She pursues powerful people, good or bad, but eventually screws them over even when that wasn't her intent. She is like Aesop's scorpion, she can't help her nature. Around the point where things start going her way, a machination from earlier comes back to bite her, and she grabs the money and runs while all hell breaks loose.
She is a chameleon who presents herself as whatever others want, including the hero's desire that she can be redeemed. Her "bad" nature is first discovered only in escalating stages of the plot, while the hero is still in denial and there is a chance they will get together. She goes from being an innocent "victim of circumstances" to a sudden pile-up of anti-social reveals that got her there in the first place.
However, I want her to remain sympathetic: a complicated heroine. In later stories she will repeat the pattern but it is no longer a surprise to the reader (or the hero) so we watch her dig herself a deeper hole, then cover-up and self-sabotage. It's clear that she gets herself into situations – she's an opportunist who drives the plot forward.
My problem with her character:
My snag with her character is that she doesn't think she is the problem, in her mind she is just tap dancing around powerful and dangerous people. She doesn't debate morals, at least not in a way that shows. Her rare moments are when she does the right thing for the right reasons because in a part of her mind she's always nurturing a smash-and-grab strategy and a quick escape.
In contrast, the hero has self-doubts and questions his own morals. The reader has a better understanding of his internal conflict because he reacts to his mistakes, and has periods of mania and depression. He goes through a lot of soul-searching, understanding his need to save her and also learning he can't change her.
How do I show this heroine is sensitive/intuitive about other people, uncovering their buried vulnerabilities and secret desires, and yet unaware that her own schemes are her downfall? She is sort of an iconic femme fatale who keeps climbing to the top. But why would she keep running to danger, rather than just finding a rich guy she could manipulate and live comfortably? I feel like I am relying on "it's just her nature" to keep them in this pattern forever, but that implies she is a psychopath or maybe a convenient moron.
How does the heroine keep getting into trouble without realizing that she is the source of the trouble?
characters morality
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
 |Â
show 3 more comments
up vote
1
down vote
favorite
A complicated anti-heroine?
I have a power-seeking guile heroine from tumultuous circumstances who always gets in over her head, and a reluctant hero who keeps saving her. It's a pattern. She (more or less) stays the same, it's just her schemes that get bigger.
She's a con-artist with a broken moral compass, but she's also suppose to be intuitive when it comes to reading other people, the idea is she is a bit empathic (not supernaturally, just plot-wise) but also a bit of a sociopath who mirrors the morals and goals of those around her. She pursues powerful people, good or bad, but eventually screws them over even when that wasn't her intent. She is like Aesop's scorpion, she can't help her nature. Around the point where things start going her way, a machination from earlier comes back to bite her, and she grabs the money and runs while all hell breaks loose.
She is a chameleon who presents herself as whatever others want, including the hero's desire that she can be redeemed. Her "bad" nature is first discovered only in escalating stages of the plot, while the hero is still in denial and there is a chance they will get together. She goes from being an innocent "victim of circumstances" to a sudden pile-up of anti-social reveals that got her there in the first place.
However, I want her to remain sympathetic: a complicated heroine. In later stories she will repeat the pattern but it is no longer a surprise to the reader (or the hero) so we watch her dig herself a deeper hole, then cover-up and self-sabotage. It's clear that she gets herself into situations – she's an opportunist who drives the plot forward.
My problem with her character:
My snag with her character is that she doesn't think she is the problem, in her mind she is just tap dancing around powerful and dangerous people. She doesn't debate morals, at least not in a way that shows. Her rare moments are when she does the right thing for the right reasons because in a part of her mind she's always nurturing a smash-and-grab strategy and a quick escape.
In contrast, the hero has self-doubts and questions his own morals. The reader has a better understanding of his internal conflict because he reacts to his mistakes, and has periods of mania and depression. He goes through a lot of soul-searching, understanding his need to save her and also learning he can't change her.
How do I show this heroine is sensitive/intuitive about other people, uncovering their buried vulnerabilities and secret desires, and yet unaware that her own schemes are her downfall? She is sort of an iconic femme fatale who keeps climbing to the top. But why would she keep running to danger, rather than just finding a rich guy she could manipulate and live comfortably? I feel like I am relying on "it's just her nature" to keep them in this pattern forever, but that implies she is a psychopath or maybe a convenient moron.
How does the heroine keep getting into trouble without realizing that she is the source of the trouble?
characters morality
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
1
Why do you think your heroine should seek a commitment with "a rich guy"? She may be repelled to the very idea of "belonging" to someone (even if that someone is being manipulated by her), and think that "tap dancing" is the right way to get ahead in life.
– Alexander
2 hours ago
@Alexander, I understand her attraction to power (whomever is in power at that moment), but I'm not sure how to convey that to the reader without making her seem like a villain, or at least very shallow and fickle person. A hero that is attracted to a beautiful damsel in distress is different to a gold-digger who climbs a social ladder presenting herself as something she's not. I think you're also maybe being cavalier about how women are judged by their sexual choices…. I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…? Why always go for a "bigger" prize?
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
1
Do you think of her more as a con artist, or just golddigger? The former would get more sympathy from the reader. Why she doesn't marry (or otherwise commit) - some people are fiercely independent, she can be one of them.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
Good point. I hadn't considered the difference between con artist and gold digger. You are right, con artist seems more independent
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
@wetcircuit: "I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…?" Because she loves the power and the riches the guy has, but maybe she doesn't love them to the point of sacrificing herself. She's after a specific goal - power and money - and she believes she can get it by herself, with no need of getting an appendage she'll have to put up with. One doesn't even have to be fiercely independent. She could even dream of one day settling down with a good-looking guy!
– Sara Costa
18 mins ago
 |Â
show 3 more comments
up vote
1
down vote
favorite
up vote
1
down vote
favorite
A complicated anti-heroine?
I have a power-seeking guile heroine from tumultuous circumstances who always gets in over her head, and a reluctant hero who keeps saving her. It's a pattern. She (more or less) stays the same, it's just her schemes that get bigger.
She's a con-artist with a broken moral compass, but she's also suppose to be intuitive when it comes to reading other people, the idea is she is a bit empathic (not supernaturally, just plot-wise) but also a bit of a sociopath who mirrors the morals and goals of those around her. She pursues powerful people, good or bad, but eventually screws them over even when that wasn't her intent. She is like Aesop's scorpion, she can't help her nature. Around the point where things start going her way, a machination from earlier comes back to bite her, and she grabs the money and runs while all hell breaks loose.
She is a chameleon who presents herself as whatever others want, including the hero's desire that she can be redeemed. Her "bad" nature is first discovered only in escalating stages of the plot, while the hero is still in denial and there is a chance they will get together. She goes from being an innocent "victim of circumstances" to a sudden pile-up of anti-social reveals that got her there in the first place.
However, I want her to remain sympathetic: a complicated heroine. In later stories she will repeat the pattern but it is no longer a surprise to the reader (or the hero) so we watch her dig herself a deeper hole, then cover-up and self-sabotage. It's clear that she gets herself into situations – she's an opportunist who drives the plot forward.
My problem with her character:
My snag with her character is that she doesn't think she is the problem, in her mind she is just tap dancing around powerful and dangerous people. She doesn't debate morals, at least not in a way that shows. Her rare moments are when she does the right thing for the right reasons because in a part of her mind she's always nurturing a smash-and-grab strategy and a quick escape.
In contrast, the hero has self-doubts and questions his own morals. The reader has a better understanding of his internal conflict because he reacts to his mistakes, and has periods of mania and depression. He goes through a lot of soul-searching, understanding his need to save her and also learning he can't change her.
How do I show this heroine is sensitive/intuitive about other people, uncovering their buried vulnerabilities and secret desires, and yet unaware that her own schemes are her downfall? She is sort of an iconic femme fatale who keeps climbing to the top. But why would she keep running to danger, rather than just finding a rich guy she could manipulate and live comfortably? I feel like I am relying on "it's just her nature" to keep them in this pattern forever, but that implies she is a psychopath or maybe a convenient moron.
How does the heroine keep getting into trouble without realizing that she is the source of the trouble?
characters morality
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
A complicated anti-heroine?
I have a power-seeking guile heroine from tumultuous circumstances who always gets in over her head, and a reluctant hero who keeps saving her. It's a pattern. She (more or less) stays the same, it's just her schemes that get bigger.
She's a con-artist with a broken moral compass, but she's also suppose to be intuitive when it comes to reading other people, the idea is she is a bit empathic (not supernaturally, just plot-wise) but also a bit of a sociopath who mirrors the morals and goals of those around her. She pursues powerful people, good or bad, but eventually screws them over even when that wasn't her intent. She is like Aesop's scorpion, she can't help her nature. Around the point where things start going her way, a machination from earlier comes back to bite her, and she grabs the money and runs while all hell breaks loose.
She is a chameleon who presents herself as whatever others want, including the hero's desire that she can be redeemed. Her "bad" nature is first discovered only in escalating stages of the plot, while the hero is still in denial and there is a chance they will get together. She goes from being an innocent "victim of circumstances" to a sudden pile-up of anti-social reveals that got her there in the first place.
However, I want her to remain sympathetic: a complicated heroine. In later stories she will repeat the pattern but it is no longer a surprise to the reader (or the hero) so we watch her dig herself a deeper hole, then cover-up and self-sabotage. It's clear that she gets herself into situations – she's an opportunist who drives the plot forward.
My problem with her character:
My snag with her character is that she doesn't think she is the problem, in her mind she is just tap dancing around powerful and dangerous people. She doesn't debate morals, at least not in a way that shows. Her rare moments are when she does the right thing for the right reasons because in a part of her mind she's always nurturing a smash-and-grab strategy and a quick escape.
In contrast, the hero has self-doubts and questions his own morals. The reader has a better understanding of his internal conflict because he reacts to his mistakes, and has periods of mania and depression. He goes through a lot of soul-searching, understanding his need to save her and also learning he can't change her.
How do I show this heroine is sensitive/intuitive about other people, uncovering their buried vulnerabilities and secret desires, and yet unaware that her own schemes are her downfall? She is sort of an iconic femme fatale who keeps climbing to the top. But why would she keep running to danger, rather than just finding a rich guy she could manipulate and live comfortably? I feel like I am relying on "it's just her nature" to keep them in this pattern forever, but that implies she is a psychopath or maybe a convenient moron.
How does the heroine keep getting into trouble without realizing that she is the source of the trouble?
characters morality
characters morality
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
edited 2 hours ago
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
asked 2 hours ago
wetcircuit
3,728724
3,728724
1
Why do you think your heroine should seek a commitment with "a rich guy"? She may be repelled to the very idea of "belonging" to someone (even if that someone is being manipulated by her), and think that "tap dancing" is the right way to get ahead in life.
– Alexander
2 hours ago
@Alexander, I understand her attraction to power (whomever is in power at that moment), but I'm not sure how to convey that to the reader without making her seem like a villain, or at least very shallow and fickle person. A hero that is attracted to a beautiful damsel in distress is different to a gold-digger who climbs a social ladder presenting herself as something she's not. I think you're also maybe being cavalier about how women are judged by their sexual choices…. I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…? Why always go for a "bigger" prize?
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
1
Do you think of her more as a con artist, or just golddigger? The former would get more sympathy from the reader. Why she doesn't marry (or otherwise commit) - some people are fiercely independent, she can be one of them.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
Good point. I hadn't considered the difference between con artist and gold digger. You are right, con artist seems more independent
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
@wetcircuit: "I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…?" Because she loves the power and the riches the guy has, but maybe she doesn't love them to the point of sacrificing herself. She's after a specific goal - power and money - and she believes she can get it by herself, with no need of getting an appendage she'll have to put up with. One doesn't even have to be fiercely independent. She could even dream of one day settling down with a good-looking guy!
– Sara Costa
18 mins ago
 |Â
show 3 more comments
1
Why do you think your heroine should seek a commitment with "a rich guy"? She may be repelled to the very idea of "belonging" to someone (even if that someone is being manipulated by her), and think that "tap dancing" is the right way to get ahead in life.
– Alexander
2 hours ago
@Alexander, I understand her attraction to power (whomever is in power at that moment), but I'm not sure how to convey that to the reader without making her seem like a villain, or at least very shallow and fickle person. A hero that is attracted to a beautiful damsel in distress is different to a gold-digger who climbs a social ladder presenting herself as something she's not. I think you're also maybe being cavalier about how women are judged by their sexual choices…. I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…? Why always go for a "bigger" prize?
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
1
Do you think of her more as a con artist, or just golddigger? The former would get more sympathy from the reader. Why she doesn't marry (or otherwise commit) - some people are fiercely independent, she can be one of them.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
Good point. I hadn't considered the difference between con artist and gold digger. You are right, con artist seems more independent
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
@wetcircuit: "I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…?" Because she loves the power and the riches the guy has, but maybe she doesn't love them to the point of sacrificing herself. She's after a specific goal - power and money - and she believes she can get it by herself, with no need of getting an appendage she'll have to put up with. One doesn't even have to be fiercely independent. She could even dream of one day settling down with a good-looking guy!
– Sara Costa
18 mins ago
1
1
Why do you think your heroine should seek a commitment with "a rich guy"? She may be repelled to the very idea of "belonging" to someone (even if that someone is being manipulated by her), and think that "tap dancing" is the right way to get ahead in life.
– Alexander
2 hours ago
Why do you think your heroine should seek a commitment with "a rich guy"? She may be repelled to the very idea of "belonging" to someone (even if that someone is being manipulated by her), and think that "tap dancing" is the right way to get ahead in life.
– Alexander
2 hours ago
@Alexander, I understand her attraction to power (whomever is in power at that moment), but I'm not sure how to convey that to the reader without making her seem like a villain, or at least very shallow and fickle person. A hero that is attracted to a beautiful damsel in distress is different to a gold-digger who climbs a social ladder presenting herself as something she's not. I think you're also maybe being cavalier about how women are judged by their sexual choices…. I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…? Why always go for a "bigger" prize?
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
@Alexander, I understand her attraction to power (whomever is in power at that moment), but I'm not sure how to convey that to the reader without making her seem like a villain, or at least very shallow and fickle person. A hero that is attracted to a beautiful damsel in distress is different to a gold-digger who climbs a social ladder presenting herself as something she's not. I think you're also maybe being cavalier about how women are judged by their sexual choices…. I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…? Why always go for a "bigger" prize?
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
1
1
Do you think of her more as a con artist, or just golddigger? The former would get more sympathy from the reader. Why she doesn't marry (or otherwise commit) - some people are fiercely independent, she can be one of them.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
Do you think of her more as a con artist, or just golddigger? The former would get more sympathy from the reader. Why she doesn't marry (or otherwise commit) - some people are fiercely independent, she can be one of them.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
Good point. I hadn't considered the difference between con artist and gold digger. You are right, con artist seems more independent
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
Good point. I hadn't considered the difference between con artist and gold digger. You are right, con artist seems more independent
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
@wetcircuit: "I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…?" Because she loves the power and the riches the guy has, but maybe she doesn't love them to the point of sacrificing herself. She's after a specific goal - power and money - and she believes she can get it by herself, with no need of getting an appendage she'll have to put up with. One doesn't even have to be fiercely independent. She could even dream of one day settling down with a good-looking guy!
– Sara Costa
18 mins ago
@wetcircuit: "I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…?" Because she loves the power and the riches the guy has, but maybe she doesn't love them to the point of sacrificing herself. She's after a specific goal - power and money - and she believes she can get it by herself, with no need of getting an appendage she'll have to put up with. One doesn't even have to be fiercely independent. She could even dream of one day settling down with a good-looking guy!
– Sara Costa
18 mins ago
 |Â
show 3 more comments
2 Answers
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I would have her planning one huge con that could set her up for life, but she needs experience. These earlier cons might be stepping stones, which occasionally heat up and she always manages to escape. She is looking for that whale that might even be talked about but could certainly allow her to leave the life should she choose. Until then, it is keep your eye on the big picture and move toward your future.
Maybe she thinks that the hero is just another mark who has a convenient habit of being her white knight. She resents the damsel in distress idea because she is certain her own wits are more than enough to get her out of the trouble she encountered.
She might be unaware of his efforts and believe it is just luck and she has the catlike ability of always landing on her feet.
She doesn’t think that what she is doing is wrong, it is just another way to make a living in a harsh world. She believes that violence is wrong, but if people are foolish enough to give her money then so be it.
The ability to read other people is essential to her success as she must know what the other person wants and needs in order to create a false truth which the listener will believe. It must fit the circumstances she observes. She can be brilliant at it and still not see herself clearly.
She avoids introspection as a waste of time and focuses on those around her. She might begin to wonder at the amazing run of luck she’s had and come to believe that the marks are just an unlucky lot, not noticing the connection.
The how? I would have her observe her marks, studying them before ever they realize she is there. She will have all of the answers to their objections before ever they think of objecting. She will be smooth.
The reader and the hero will see that she causes all of the trouble. She does not have to notice that for quite a while. Just have her focus on other things and show other aspects of her so we understand why the hero cares so much about this bad seed.
Was she kind to a neighbor of his? Kind to him? Probably for her own reasons, but even so, some acts of kindness can be genuine. She is severely damaged, but not utterly destroyed.
Can she be redeemed? Not unless she wakes up to her reality and chooses to change. Not likely. Show why the hero thought that she was worth the trouble, worth his efforts. There must be some glimmer of good that he thinks he sees though he might be mistaken.
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
Wow. It's like you know this woman. Great insight, she is absolutely against violence, but fine with stealing. Other assumptions are correct too…. I will go back and make sure there is a genuine connection (however brief) between them, not just him feeling sympathy or being fooled.
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
I think the two questions you'll need to answer for this woman are where did she come from? and where is she going? What in her back story made her into the person she is? And what goal is she pursuing that makes it all seem (to her) like the ends justify the means?
Aside from that, she doesn't sound all that unrealistic to me. People can often be very self-sabotaging in real life, and it's possible to be clear-eyed about someone else, and blind about yourself. In fact, I'd venture it's more the rule than the exception.
Self-sabotage is often a result of feelings of worthlessness or guilt, a sense that one does not deserve better. Sometimes it can even be paradoxically self-preserving, a way to avoid a situation that is good in one way, but a trap in another. Conversely, it can stem from a fatalistic desire to ruin something before fate can ruin it first.
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
add a comment |Â
2 Answers
2
active
oldest
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2 Answers
2
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
2
down vote
I would have her planning one huge con that could set her up for life, but she needs experience. These earlier cons might be stepping stones, which occasionally heat up and she always manages to escape. She is looking for that whale that might even be talked about but could certainly allow her to leave the life should she choose. Until then, it is keep your eye on the big picture and move toward your future.
Maybe she thinks that the hero is just another mark who has a convenient habit of being her white knight. She resents the damsel in distress idea because she is certain her own wits are more than enough to get her out of the trouble she encountered.
She might be unaware of his efforts and believe it is just luck and she has the catlike ability of always landing on her feet.
She doesn’t think that what she is doing is wrong, it is just another way to make a living in a harsh world. She believes that violence is wrong, but if people are foolish enough to give her money then so be it.
The ability to read other people is essential to her success as she must know what the other person wants and needs in order to create a false truth which the listener will believe. It must fit the circumstances she observes. She can be brilliant at it and still not see herself clearly.
She avoids introspection as a waste of time and focuses on those around her. She might begin to wonder at the amazing run of luck she’s had and come to believe that the marks are just an unlucky lot, not noticing the connection.
The how? I would have her observe her marks, studying them before ever they realize she is there. She will have all of the answers to their objections before ever they think of objecting. She will be smooth.
The reader and the hero will see that she causes all of the trouble. She does not have to notice that for quite a while. Just have her focus on other things and show other aspects of her so we understand why the hero cares so much about this bad seed.
Was she kind to a neighbor of his? Kind to him? Probably for her own reasons, but even so, some acts of kindness can be genuine. She is severely damaged, but not utterly destroyed.
Can she be redeemed? Not unless she wakes up to her reality and chooses to change. Not likely. Show why the hero thought that she was worth the trouble, worth his efforts. There must be some glimmer of good that he thinks he sees though he might be mistaken.
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
Wow. It's like you know this woman. Great insight, she is absolutely against violence, but fine with stealing. Other assumptions are correct too…. I will go back and make sure there is a genuine connection (however brief) between them, not just him feeling sympathy or being fooled.
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
2
down vote
I would have her planning one huge con that could set her up for life, but she needs experience. These earlier cons might be stepping stones, which occasionally heat up and she always manages to escape. She is looking for that whale that might even be talked about but could certainly allow her to leave the life should she choose. Until then, it is keep your eye on the big picture and move toward your future.
Maybe she thinks that the hero is just another mark who has a convenient habit of being her white knight. She resents the damsel in distress idea because she is certain her own wits are more than enough to get her out of the trouble she encountered.
She might be unaware of his efforts and believe it is just luck and she has the catlike ability of always landing on her feet.
She doesn’t think that what she is doing is wrong, it is just another way to make a living in a harsh world. She believes that violence is wrong, but if people are foolish enough to give her money then so be it.
The ability to read other people is essential to her success as she must know what the other person wants and needs in order to create a false truth which the listener will believe. It must fit the circumstances she observes. She can be brilliant at it and still not see herself clearly.
She avoids introspection as a waste of time and focuses on those around her. She might begin to wonder at the amazing run of luck she’s had and come to believe that the marks are just an unlucky lot, not noticing the connection.
The how? I would have her observe her marks, studying them before ever they realize she is there. She will have all of the answers to their objections before ever they think of objecting. She will be smooth.
The reader and the hero will see that she causes all of the trouble. She does not have to notice that for quite a while. Just have her focus on other things and show other aspects of her so we understand why the hero cares so much about this bad seed.
Was she kind to a neighbor of his? Kind to him? Probably for her own reasons, but even so, some acts of kindness can be genuine. She is severely damaged, but not utterly destroyed.
Can she be redeemed? Not unless she wakes up to her reality and chooses to change. Not likely. Show why the hero thought that she was worth the trouble, worth his efforts. There must be some glimmer of good that he thinks he sees though he might be mistaken.
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
Wow. It's like you know this woman. Great insight, she is absolutely against violence, but fine with stealing. Other assumptions are correct too…. I will go back and make sure there is a genuine connection (however brief) between them, not just him feeling sympathy or being fooled.
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
2
down vote
up vote
2
down vote
I would have her planning one huge con that could set her up for life, but she needs experience. These earlier cons might be stepping stones, which occasionally heat up and she always manages to escape. She is looking for that whale that might even be talked about but could certainly allow her to leave the life should she choose. Until then, it is keep your eye on the big picture and move toward your future.
Maybe she thinks that the hero is just another mark who has a convenient habit of being her white knight. She resents the damsel in distress idea because she is certain her own wits are more than enough to get her out of the trouble she encountered.
She might be unaware of his efforts and believe it is just luck and she has the catlike ability of always landing on her feet.
She doesn’t think that what she is doing is wrong, it is just another way to make a living in a harsh world. She believes that violence is wrong, but if people are foolish enough to give her money then so be it.
The ability to read other people is essential to her success as she must know what the other person wants and needs in order to create a false truth which the listener will believe. It must fit the circumstances she observes. She can be brilliant at it and still not see herself clearly.
She avoids introspection as a waste of time and focuses on those around her. She might begin to wonder at the amazing run of luck she’s had and come to believe that the marks are just an unlucky lot, not noticing the connection.
The how? I would have her observe her marks, studying them before ever they realize she is there. She will have all of the answers to their objections before ever they think of objecting. She will be smooth.
The reader and the hero will see that she causes all of the trouble. She does not have to notice that for quite a while. Just have her focus on other things and show other aspects of her so we understand why the hero cares so much about this bad seed.
Was she kind to a neighbor of his? Kind to him? Probably for her own reasons, but even so, some acts of kindness can be genuine. She is severely damaged, but not utterly destroyed.
Can she be redeemed? Not unless she wakes up to her reality and chooses to change. Not likely. Show why the hero thought that she was worth the trouble, worth his efforts. There must be some glimmer of good that he thinks he sees though he might be mistaken.
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
I would have her planning one huge con that could set her up for life, but she needs experience. These earlier cons might be stepping stones, which occasionally heat up and she always manages to escape. She is looking for that whale that might even be talked about but could certainly allow her to leave the life should she choose. Until then, it is keep your eye on the big picture and move toward your future.
Maybe she thinks that the hero is just another mark who has a convenient habit of being her white knight. She resents the damsel in distress idea because she is certain her own wits are more than enough to get her out of the trouble she encountered.
She might be unaware of his efforts and believe it is just luck and she has the catlike ability of always landing on her feet.
She doesn’t think that what she is doing is wrong, it is just another way to make a living in a harsh world. She believes that violence is wrong, but if people are foolish enough to give her money then so be it.
The ability to read other people is essential to her success as she must know what the other person wants and needs in order to create a false truth which the listener will believe. It must fit the circumstances she observes. She can be brilliant at it and still not see herself clearly.
She avoids introspection as a waste of time and focuses on those around her. She might begin to wonder at the amazing run of luck she’s had and come to believe that the marks are just an unlucky lot, not noticing the connection.
The how? I would have her observe her marks, studying them before ever they realize she is there. She will have all of the answers to their objections before ever they think of objecting. She will be smooth.
The reader and the hero will see that she causes all of the trouble. She does not have to notice that for quite a while. Just have her focus on other things and show other aspects of her so we understand why the hero cares so much about this bad seed.
Was she kind to a neighbor of his? Kind to him? Probably for her own reasons, but even so, some acts of kindness can be genuine. She is severely damaged, but not utterly destroyed.
Can she be redeemed? Not unless she wakes up to her reality and chooses to change. Not likely. Show why the hero thought that she was worth the trouble, worth his efforts. There must be some glimmer of good that he thinks he sees though he might be mistaken.
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
answered 1 hour ago
Rasdashan
19510
19510
Wow. It's like you know this woman. Great insight, she is absolutely against violence, but fine with stealing. Other assumptions are correct too…. I will go back and make sure there is a genuine connection (however brief) between them, not just him feeling sympathy or being fooled.
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
Wow. It's like you know this woman. Great insight, she is absolutely against violence, but fine with stealing. Other assumptions are correct too…. I will go back and make sure there is a genuine connection (however brief) between them, not just him feeling sympathy or being fooled.
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
Wow. It's like you know this woman. Great insight, she is absolutely against violence, but fine with stealing. Other assumptions are correct too…. I will go back and make sure there is a genuine connection (however brief) between them, not just him feeling sympathy or being fooled.
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
Wow. It's like you know this woman. Great insight, she is absolutely against violence, but fine with stealing. Other assumptions are correct too…. I will go back and make sure there is a genuine connection (however brief) between them, not just him feeling sympathy or being fooled.
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
I think the two questions you'll need to answer for this woman are where did she come from? and where is she going? What in her back story made her into the person she is? And what goal is she pursuing that makes it all seem (to her) like the ends justify the means?
Aside from that, she doesn't sound all that unrealistic to me. People can often be very self-sabotaging in real life, and it's possible to be clear-eyed about someone else, and blind about yourself. In fact, I'd venture it's more the rule than the exception.
Self-sabotage is often a result of feelings of worthlessness or guilt, a sense that one does not deserve better. Sometimes it can even be paradoxically self-preserving, a way to avoid a situation that is good in one way, but a trap in another. Conversely, it can stem from a fatalistic desire to ruin something before fate can ruin it first.
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
I think the two questions you'll need to answer for this woman are where did she come from? and where is she going? What in her back story made her into the person she is? And what goal is she pursuing that makes it all seem (to her) like the ends justify the means?
Aside from that, she doesn't sound all that unrealistic to me. People can often be very self-sabotaging in real life, and it's possible to be clear-eyed about someone else, and blind about yourself. In fact, I'd venture it's more the rule than the exception.
Self-sabotage is often a result of feelings of worthlessness or guilt, a sense that one does not deserve better. Sometimes it can even be paradoxically self-preserving, a way to avoid a situation that is good in one way, but a trap in another. Conversely, it can stem from a fatalistic desire to ruin something before fate can ruin it first.
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
up vote
1
down vote
I think the two questions you'll need to answer for this woman are where did she come from? and where is she going? What in her back story made her into the person she is? And what goal is she pursuing that makes it all seem (to her) like the ends justify the means?
Aside from that, she doesn't sound all that unrealistic to me. People can often be very self-sabotaging in real life, and it's possible to be clear-eyed about someone else, and blind about yourself. In fact, I'd venture it's more the rule than the exception.
Self-sabotage is often a result of feelings of worthlessness or guilt, a sense that one does not deserve better. Sometimes it can even be paradoxically self-preserving, a way to avoid a situation that is good in one way, but a trap in another. Conversely, it can stem from a fatalistic desire to ruin something before fate can ruin it first.
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
I think the two questions you'll need to answer for this woman are where did she come from? and where is she going? What in her back story made her into the person she is? And what goal is she pursuing that makes it all seem (to her) like the ends justify the means?
Aside from that, she doesn't sound all that unrealistic to me. People can often be very self-sabotaging in real life, and it's possible to be clear-eyed about someone else, and blind about yourself. In fact, I'd venture it's more the rule than the exception.
Self-sabotage is often a result of feelings of worthlessness or guilt, a sense that one does not deserve better. Sometimes it can even be paradoxically self-preserving, a way to avoid a situation that is good in one way, but a trap in another. Conversely, it can stem from a fatalistic desire to ruin something before fate can ruin it first.
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
answered 47 mins ago
Chris Sunami
24.4k33092
24.4k33092
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
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1
Why do you think your heroine should seek a commitment with "a rich guy"? She may be repelled to the very idea of "belonging" to someone (even if that someone is being manipulated by her), and think that "tap dancing" is the right way to get ahead in life.
– Alexander
2 hours ago
@Alexander, I understand her attraction to power (whomever is in power at that moment), but I'm not sure how to convey that to the reader without making her seem like a villain, or at least very shallow and fickle person. A hero that is attracted to a beautiful damsel in distress is different to a gold-digger who climbs a social ladder presenting herself as something she's not. I think you're also maybe being cavalier about how women are judged by their sexual choices…. I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…? Why always go for a "bigger" prize?
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
1
Do you think of her more as a con artist, or just golddigger? The former would get more sympathy from the reader. Why she doesn't marry (or otherwise commit) - some people are fiercely independent, she can be one of them.
– Alexander
1 hour ago
Good point. I hadn't considered the difference between con artist and gold digger. You are right, con artist seems more independent
– wetcircuit
1 hour ago
@wetcircuit: "I didn't say she should marry a rich guy, but how does this not happen naturally…?" Because she loves the power and the riches the guy has, but maybe she doesn't love them to the point of sacrificing herself. She's after a specific goal - power and money - and she believes she can get it by herself, with no need of getting an appendage she'll have to put up with. One doesn't even have to be fiercely independent. She could even dream of one day settling down with a good-looking guy!
– Sara Costa
18 mins ago