#makebelievemonsters

When creating a fictional monster, its purpose in your story is crucial. The monster's role can make or break the narrative, so it must be carefully considered. Here's how to craft a monster with purpose:

Define Its Role: Before diving into the details of your monster, determine its role in your story. Is it the main antagonist, a secondary threat, or a misunderstood creature? Understanding its purpose will help you shape its characteristics and behavior.

Tailor Its Traits: The traits of your monster should align with its role. If it's the primary antagonist, it needs to be a formidable foe. If it's a misunderstood creature, it should be capable of eliciting empathy from readers. Consider the physical and behavioral traits that will support its purpose.

Use Metaphors: Monsters can be metaphors for real-world issues or fears. For instance, a monster that represents the dangers of genetic engineering might be created through gene splicing, and this technique makes the monster unique and adds depth to the story.

Create Tension: A monster that poses a real threat to your protagonist will create tension, making the story more engaging. To achieve this, the beast should have a distinct advantage over the protagonist, forcing them to rely on their wits and resources to survive.

Give It A Weakness: The monster's weakness ultimately allows the protagonist to overcome it. The flaw can be physical or psychological, but it should be significant enough to provide a clear path to victory.