Character - ‘As he chooses, he is’
I’m still thoroughly enjoying ‘Story’ by Robert McKee. I thought it might dry up somewhat as I got further into it, but it is just fascinating to read. I’m am learning so much about - you guessed it - story. As someone who is definitely wanting to become a better story-teller, it is really helpful and insightful.
Today I thought I’d share a few more great quotes on character:
“True character is revealed in the choices a human being makes under pressure - the greater the pressure, the deeper the revelation, the truer the choice to the character’s essential nature.”
“The only way to know the truth (about someone’s character) is to witness him make choices under pressure to take one action or another in the pursuit of his desire. As he chooses, he is.”
“Pressure is essential. Choices made when nothing is at risk mean little. If a character chooses to tell the truth in a situation where telling a lie would gain him nothing, the choice is trivial, the moment expresses nothing. But if the same character insists on telling the truth when a lie would save his life, then we sense that honesty is at the core of his nature.”
The context for these quotes is obviously related to building quality characters into a story. But I think these speak a lot of truth about being people of character too.
Tags: Character, Robert McKee, Story