It is sometimes the minor, not the major, characters in a novel who hold the author's affection longest. It may be that one loses affection for the major characters because they suck off so much energy as one pushes them through their lives.
In Larry McMurtry's work "Roads: Driving America's Great Highways," he reflects on the intriguing dynamics between authors and their characters. He notes that often, it is the less prominent characters who capture an author's lasting fondness. This may stem from the fact that more significant characters can be demanding, requiring a great deal of emotional investment as the author navigates their stories.
McMurtry suggests that the energy needed to develop and push major characters through their narratives can lead to a diminished affection for them. Conversely, minor characters, which may not require as much intensive focus, can become endearing and memorable, showcasing the complexities of character relationships within literature.
