Are flaws necessary for villains? What traits make for a really good (err… evil?) villain? What’s the difference between Sauron and Gollum? (”That’s the LAST time I send you out shopping for Gollums, son…”)

Liner Notes: The Evil Overlord List, a handy reference for tropes to avoid (or, as the case may be, exploit…)

 

 Writing Excuses Episode 7: Villains [14:23m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (3108)

Is there a difference between the two?  How do you use each appropriately in your writing?  And how lovable can a group of mercenaries be?

 

 Writing Excuses Episode 6: Flaws vs Handicaps [16:19m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (4309)

What makes a good hero? Why is Dirk Pitt so cool? Why do people like Superman? And why does Howard-with-a-chest-cold start to sound like Barry White? Some of these questions are answered in this episode while others are better left unexplained.

LINER NOTES:

Howard repeatedly invoked John August’s blog post about heroes, protagonists, and main characters. Here it is.

 

 Writing Excuses Episode 5: Heroes and Protagonists [15:45m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (4763)