The Lie Your Character Believes: Internal Conflict as Story Engine

    Every compelling character is haunted by a belief that isn’t true. Not a minor misconception. Not a small error in judgment. A fundamental lie about themselves or the world that shapes every decision they make—until the story forces them to confront it. This lie is the engine of character transformation. And understanding how to craft it separates functional characters from unforgettable ones. What Is the Character’s Lie? The Lie is a false belief your character holds about themselves, others, or how the world works. It’s: ...

    February 1, 2025 · 7 min · Rafiul Alam