Things get intense in the second third of Part Four, with a near-death, a fumbled suicide attempt, and a baby who isn't thriving. But it could be worse. Everyone survives, at least for now. 16. Levin shows Kitty his diary We can’t have secrets. Sex? God? My soul isn’t pure. Will you still love me? 17. Anna nearly dies after giving birth, so Alexey goes to her Easy to forgive Someone who’s about to die. Find your peace, …
Three Steps to Three Dimensional Characters
How do you make sure that your characters–both main and supporting–are three-
dimensional? It can be easier said than done, but if you follow these three steps, you’ll
develop characters who are believable, relatable, and compelling.
1: Your characters need to want something. And you, the author, need to
know what their motivations are.
The first question you should ask yourself before you write each and every scene in …
The Blurry Line Between Charlotte Brontë and Jane Eyre
Late last month, my short story, “You and Jane” was published by Abandon Journal. It’s about a modern-day, parallel universe Charlotte Bronte who’s receiving genetic counseling, and she must reckon with grief and the deaths of all her siblings and her mother. I know that doesn’t sound like a barrel of laughs, but the piece is meant to be funny, with dark, absurdist humor. You don’t have to understand the connection between Jane Eyre and her creator, …
Anna Karenina, Part 4, chapters 11-15 Haikus
Breaking News: Levin is happy! There's not much joy in Anna Karenina, and certainly not when it comes to Levin. But for a few brief chapters, Levin is aboard the happiness train. Go, Levin! 11. Levin and Kitty go off by themselves She’s the only one At this party, in the world I care to talk to 12. Dolly begs Alexey to forgive Anna Love those who hate you Love those who you hate. Forgive. Anna needs your grace. 13. Levin and Kitty play a …
Anna Karenina, Part 4 Chapters 6-10 Haikus
Get ready! It's time to pour the vodka, talk politics, and compare your bear-hunting stories. That's right! Stiva and Dolly (definitely the two most fun characters) are having a dinner party. The only problem? Levin and Alexey (definitely the two least fun characters) are both invited. But Levin has some moments of levity, and Stiva out does himself being everyone's favorite guy. Plus, Levin and Kitty are reunited. Could love be in the air? Stay …
