In simple terms, Rex Stout's statement suggests that characters who are carefully planned out by their creators tend to feel more artificial or less naturally developed compared to those that seem to emerge organically from a writer’s imagination. This distinction implies that while meticulously crafted characters can be well thought through and detailed in their traits, they may lack the spontaneity and complexity of characters that appear to have evolved on their own.
The deeper meaning behind this quote delves into the process of character creation in literature and storytelling. A "born" character is one who feels fully realized from the outset; such characters often display a natural flow in their development, showing layers of personality and depth that are not necessarily planned but rather grow out of the narrative itself. On the other hand, a “thought-out” character may have every aspect meticulously designed, yet this detailed planning can sometimes lead to a rigid or predictable persona that lacks authenticity and spontaneity. Stout’s words encourage writers to strike a balance between deliberate crafting and allowing characters to evolve naturally through their interactions within the story.
Rex Stout was an American author best known for his detective novels featuring the character Nero Wolfe, a brilliant but reclusive private investigator. Born in 1894, Stout wrote extensively throughout his career, with much of his work focusing on complex storytelling techniques and nuanced character development. His insights into writing, such as the quote about characters, reflect his profound understanding of literature and his dedication to crafting compelling narratives that resonate deeply with readers.
