I remember in a literary theory class once having a discussion about first novels being emotionally autobiographically. The essence of it was that especially first novels tend to reflect writers’ deepest emotions and their emotional journey, though the plot and setting may not resemble their actual lives.
My first completed novel was not explicitly about me, but when I look at it now, I can certainly see my emotions, hopes, and fears in the main character.
I’ve thought about this a lot over the years as my writing has progressed. My writing now has more varied and dynamic characters in which I no longer see myself. My hope is that as I’ve matured as a writer I’ve developed an ability to create dynamic characters with their own unique emotions and needs.
Certainly, in Lonely Hunter, there are a number of unique and uniquely motivated characters. Some of this is due to getting older and more observant. Some of it also studying the craft of fiction and a better understanding that characters and their competing interests is what really drives stories.
