Much of what I learned about forgiveness I learned by inhabiting the lives of my characters. Even villains act with reasonable intent. Mercy is easier with understanding. Still, it helps that on paper I can kill them off.
This quote explores the profound connection between storytelling and empathy. By portraying characters with depth and complexity, including villains, the author emphasizes that understanding motives and backgrounds fosters forgiveness and compassion. When we put ourselves in the shoes of diverse characters, we see their actions not as simple good or evil but as results of circumstances, beliefs, or pains that shape their choices. This approach can extend beyond fiction into real life, highlighting that people’s actions often reflect their inner struggles and context rather than inherent malice. The mention that punishment or ending a character’s story 'on paper' is easier than dealing with real-life consequences symbolically underscores that some conflicts and grudges dissolve when viewed through the lens of understanding. Forgiveness becomes more attainable when one recognizes the reasons behind offenses, rather than dismissing them outright. Additionally, the ease of eliminating characters in a fictional world offers a safe space to explore complex moral dynamics without the immediate emotional costs. It’s a powerful reminder that our perceptions can be shifted from judgment to empathy, ultimately encouraging a more compassionate outlook toward others' flaws and mistakes. The role of storytelling as a mirror to human nature can be a transformative tool, nudging us toward greater kindness and introspection in our relationships and societal interactions.
