I wouldn’t really choose to not be a panster when it comes to writing, but it does have its downside.
When I write a character, I like not knowing what they are going to do, say, even how they act. It gives me a surprise and lets them grow organically. Character templates don’t work for me, I don’t know that much about them immediately. Sometimes, perhaps, it depends on how much a character talks to you.
I have had a character tell me everything all at once. Another told me nothing but their name. Sometimes, they don’t even have names immediately, just a look and personality. Each of them are different.
However, when it comes to roleplay, this sometimes makes me wonder if my characters in multiple stories sound too much alike or if they are different. It’s a worry I’ve always had so I talk to my partner and usually they’d tell me how the character is coming off.
That is less of a worry in solo writing.
The downside of being a pantser is finding it difficult to figure out where things will end. I don’t know the story, I don’t know where it will go. Even if I have a plan or idea, it changes with a decision a character makes and that can throw me off.
I am someone who should have structure. I need it. Yet I cannot make one for myself, which in turn also makes it difficult to plot. It feels constricting when it comes to writing.
As chaotic as it is to be a panster, I wouldn’t trade it. The unknown is the thrill, keeping the characters and the world unknown keeps my curiosity throughout. I don’t always know when and where it will end, but that is really the point. Writing, for me, is discovery.
I’m always curious how others handle this. Do you have a strict outline? Or are you someone who lets the moment take them? If you’ve found a blanace between the two processes, I’d love to hear how you make it work.
Sage Barlowe 