Episode 30 - When a Wizard Did It: The Problem with Placeholder Characters

On this episode of Fictional Problems (in association with Speculative Fiction Ireland), hosts Gary J. Martin and A.R. McNevin explore "placeholder" characters — figures whose abilities are presupposed rather than shown — and how that presupposition can leave readers feeling cheated. They discuss examples from Sherlock Holmes to fanfic, and the pitfalls of Mary Sue/Gary Stu characters.

The hosts argue for showing a character's process, limits, and growth to keep stories engaging, using examples from detective fiction, fantasy, and popular media to illustrate how to craft believable development and stakes.

 

 

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