How Your Main Character Solves Problems

May 16, 2007

Main Characters can solve problems either logically or holistically. While they can do both, one will stand out over the other as an innate trait of the Main Character. It’s the point where the Main Character begins her thought process. Some characters will prefer to solve problems one step at a time with their eyes focused on a prized goal. Others will prefer to balance problems as they focus on the connection between things.

Whichever one they “operate” from, Main Characters will be able to easily identify issues or problems in those who use the opposite method.

We’ve all known people who can seemingly pick apart our own personal issues with ease; they see things in ourselves that we never could. This happens because those insightful people are using the other operating system. An example of this can often be found by turning towards the significant other in your life. More often than not, we end up “hooking up” with someone who thinks quite differently from us.

The Objective Story Connection

The interesting part occurs when you match up the Main Character’s Problem-Solving Style with the Objective Story Domain:

A linear thinker is perfect for solving the problems of a Manipulation Story. A holistic thinker is perfect for bringing back balance to an Activity Story.

Objective Stories of Manipulation exist because the characters in the story engage in problematic methods of manipulation like deceit or lying. As these people try to manipulate others, the Main Character can analyze step by step what they say they did.

A Main Character in this kind of story might say the following:

“Wait a second. You went home at 6pm and then took a stroll an hour later? Yet Mrs. Johnson said she called you shortly after 7. Something doesn’t follow here.”

A linear thinker can pick apart the deceits of a manipulator.

Holistic thinkers have the same sort of unique ability - only from a different direction.

Objective Stories of Activities exist because the characters in the story are engaging in problematic actions like stealing or fighting. As these people act against others, the Main Character can seek out why they are doing it and perhaps find a way to restore equity.

“Wait a second. Those retirement funds that were stolen…they’re all from families who one time or another lived on this particular street…the same street Mr. Roberts grew up on…the same street where he was ritually beaten by the neighborhood kids. Perhaps, Mr. Roberts is trying to collect on what he believes is a long overdue compensation package.”

So while sometimes the idea of the Main Character’s Problem-Solving Style can seem sort of ambigous and unnecessary, the above shows what a useful tool it can be. If you want your Main Character to have a significant impact on the Objective Story, make sure he or she has the right operating system to get the job done.