How to Avoid Cliche Sidekicks when Writing Books
Fantasy literature has long thrived on the interplay between heroes and their faithful sidekicks, yet these characters often fall victim to stereotypes that limit their potential.
By challenging these tropes and embracing diversity in character development, writers can unlock new dimensions of storytelling and create narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level.
The Limitations of Traditional Sidekick Tropes
In many fantasy tales, sidekick characters are relegated to the role of passive supporters, lacking agency and depth beyond their allegiance to the protagonist.
This narrow portrayal not only stifles creativity but also fails to capture the diverse array of experiences and identities present in the real world. Writers must recognise the constraints of these traditional tropes and actively work to subvert them in order to breathe life into their characters and narratives.
Embracing Diversity in Characterisation
Diversity in sidekick characters encompasses a wide spectrum of traits, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, abilities, and socio-economic background.
By embracing a holistic approach to character development, writers can craft sidekicks that reflect the complexities of the human experience and challenge preconceived notions of identity and representation.
Exploring New Perspectives and Experiences
Diversifying sidekick characters opens the door to a myriad of perspectives and experiences within fantasy worlds.
For instance, introducing sidekicks from marginalised communities allows writers to delve into themes of resilience, identity, and belonging with nuance and authenticity. By centering these characters in their narratives, writers can shed light on often-overlooked aspects of the human condition and foster empathy and understanding among readers.
Breaking Gender Norms and Expectations
Historically, fantasy literature has perpetuated gender norms and stereotypes, relegating female characters to secondary roles or reducing them to one-dimensional archetypes.
However, by breaking free from these constraints, writers can create sidekick characters who defy expectations and challenge traditional gender roles. Whether it's a warrior princess or a sensitive bard, diversifying sidekick characters allows writers to celebrate the full spectrum of gender identities and empower readers to embrace their own complexity and individuality.
Championing Representation and Inclusivity
Representation matters.
By including diverse sidekick characters in their narratives, writers can provide readers with a sense of validation and belonging, especially those from underrepresented or marginalised communities. Seeing themselves reflected in the pages of a fantasy novel not only affirms their identities but also sends a powerful message about the importance of inclusivity and acceptance. Through thoughtful representation, writers can foster a more inclusive literary landscape where every reader feels seen, heard, and valued.
Conclusion
Diversifying sidekick characters in fantasy literature is not just a matter of ticking boxes or meeting quotas—it's about telling richer, more authentic stories that resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
By challenging traditional tropes, embracing diversity in characterisation, and championing representation and inclusivity, writers can create narratives that reflect the complexities of the human experience and inspire readers to imagine worlds where everyone has a place and a voice.
Pros and Cons of Writing Sidekicks
Pros:
1. Sidekick characters can add depth and complexity to the narrative by providing alternative perspectives, motivations, and experiences, enriching the overall storytelling experience.
2. Sidekicks serve as foils to the main protagonist, allowing for their growth and development through interactions and relationships, leading to dynamic character arcs and compelling storytelling.
3. Sidekick characters offer emotional support, companionship, and camaraderie to the protagonist, enhancing their journey and providing moments of levity, camaraderie, or moral support in times of need.
4. Sidekicks can drive the plot forward by offering assistance, expertise, or resources that propel the protagonist towards their goals, serving as catalysts for key events or plot twists.
5. Well-developed sidekick characters can resonate with readers, allowing them to see themselves in the story or form emotional attachments to the characters, fostering a deeper connection to the narrative.
Cons:
1. Sidekick characters run the risk of being stereotyped or reduced to one-dimensional roles, particularly if they conform to traditional tropes or archetypes, limiting their impact and believability.
2. In some cases, sidekick characters may overshadow the protagonist or detract from their agency and significance within the narrative, leading to imbalanced storytelling or diminished character development.
3. Sidekick characters may become overly reliant on the protagonist for direction or purpose, diminishing their autonomy and agency within the story, and limiting their potential for independent growth or development.
4. Introducing multiple sidekick characters can overcrowd the narrative, making it difficult for each character to receive adequate development or attention, potentially diluting the impact of their individual storylines.
5. Sidekick characters are often depicted in predictable relationships with the protagonist, such as the loyal sidekick or comedic relief, which can lead to clichéd dynamics and predictable plot developments, undermining the originality and freshness of the narrative.
Pro Tips:
1. Create Multifaceted Characters:
Avoid one-dimensional stereotypes by giving your sidekick characters depth, complexity, and their own unique motivations, flaws, and aspirations. Develop their backstory, personality, and relationships to make them feel like fully realised individuals rather than mere accessories to the protagonist.
2. Establish a Dynamic Relationship with the Protagonist:
Ensure that the relationship between the protagonist and sidekick is compelling and multifaceted. They should complement each other's strengths and weaknesses, challenge each other's beliefs, and evolve together throughout the story. Strive for a balanced dynamic where both characters contribute to each other's growth and development.
3. Give Sidekicks Agency and Autonomy:
Grant your sidekick characters agency and autonomy within the narrative. Allow them to make their own decisions, pursue their own goals, and take on meaningful roles in driving the plot forward. Avoid relegating them to passive roles or using them solely as plot devices to serve the protagonist's needs.
4. Avoid Clichés and Tropes:
Challenge traditional sidekick tropes and clichés by subverting expectations and introducing fresh and innovative character dynamics. Experiment with unconventional character archetypes, unexpected plot twists, and nuanced relationships to keep the story engaging and unpredictable.
5. Ensure Diversity and Representation:
Reflect the diversity of the real world by creating sidekick characters from diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Consider incorporating elements of intersectionality, such as race, gender, sexuality, and disability, to create rich and inclusive representations. Strive for authenticity and sensitivity in depicting diverse characters, and prioritise their agency and humanity in the narrative.
Til next time.
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