The Problem With Main Character Energy

Main characters are the central figures in most stories, whether it be in books, movies, or TV shows. They are the ones that drive the plot forward, make decisions that affect the outcome of the story, and are usually the characters that audiences root for. However, there is a phenomenon known as main character energy that can sometimes create problems in storytelling.

What is Main Character Energy?

Main character energy is the aura of importance and centrality that surrounds the main character of a story. This character is often the hero or protagonist, the one that audiences are meant to empathize with and follow on their journey. They are usually the characters that the story revolves around and are given the most screen time or page space.

Main character energy can manifest in different ways, such as characters always being at the right place at the right time, having all the answers, or effortlessly overcoming obstacles. They might also have a backstory that is more fleshed out than other characters, making them seem more real and relatable.

The Downside of Main Character Energy

While main character energy can make a story engaging and exciting, it can also create problems if not handled carefully. One of the main issues is that main characters can become too perfect or flawless, which can make them seem unrealistic and unrelatable to audiences.

When a main character always knows what to do, never makes mistakes, and easily overcomes any challenge that comes their way, it can make the story predictable and boring. Audiences want to see characters struggle and grow, facing setbacks and failures along the way. If a main character is always winning, it can rob the story of tension and conflict.

Another problem with main character energy is that it can overshadow other characters in the story. Supporting characters, who are meant to provide depth and complexity to the narrative, can be reduced to mere props or plot devices if the main character hogs all the spotlight. This can make the story feel one-dimensional and lacking in nuance.

How to Avoid Main Character Energy

There are ways to avoid falling into the trap of main character energy and create a more balanced and compelling story. One way is to give supporting characters their own arcs and development. By fleshing out the backgrounds, motivations, and struggles of other characters, you can create a richer and more immersive story.

It’s also important to show the main character’s flaws and vulnerabilities. No one is perfect, and by allowing your main character to make mistakes, face challenges, and experience growth, you can make them more relatable and human. This can also create more opportunities for conflict and tension in the story.

Another way to avoid main character energy is to give other characters agency and importance in the plot. Allow supporting characters to take the lead, make decisions, and drive the story forward in their own ways. This can create a more dynamic and engaging narrative and prevent the main character from becoming too dominant.

Conclusion

Main character energy can be a double-edged sword in storytelling. While it can make a character captivating and central to the plot, it can also lead to issues such as predictability, lack of nuance, and overshadowing of other characters. By recognizing the pitfalls of main character energy and taking steps to avoid them, writers can create more balanced and engaging stories that resonate with audiences.

FAQs

What are some examples of main character energy in popular media?

Some examples of main character energy in popular media include characters like Harry Potter, Luke Skywalker, and Katniss Everdeen. These characters are central to their respective stories and often overshadow other characters with their importance and impact on the plot.

How can I make my main character more relatable?

To make your main character more relatable, consider giving them flaws and vulnerabilities, allowing them to make mistakes, and showing their growth and development over the course of the story. This can make them more human and engaging to audiences.

What can I do if I realize that my main character has too much energy?

If you realize that your main character has too much energy and is overshadowing other characters, consider giving supporting characters more agency and importance in the plot, allowing them to take the lead and drive the story forward in their own ways. This can help create a more balanced and dynamic narrative.