WIP, learning about empathy
What do you think? Ever notice people making excuses and minimizing faults rather than admit and/or grow?
Seems like a lot of the behaviors that make someone evil, for my writing purpose, is narcissism and pride.
(Note that doing that alone would not mean someone is a psychopath. it's a whole gradient)
#empathy #empathymatters #psychopaths #writingcommunity #thoughtsonlemon8
In my journey of exploring empathy, especially in writing characters with complex moralities such as an evil tyrant cursed with empathy, I’ve found that understanding the spectrum of psychopathic behaviors is crucial. Many real-life examples of such behaviors—like lying without remorse or stealing without cause—mirror the traits I research and incorporate into my work. What’s particularly fascinating is how these actions are often followed by people minimizing their faults or making excuses instead of taking responsibility or seeking growth. Empathy, by contrast, is a more complicated and often misunderstood trait. It requires the ability to truly grasp and resonate with another’s feelings, something that narcissism and pride tend to block. For my main character (MMC), this curse of empathy becomes a double-edged sword—while it humanizes the character, it also conflicts deeply with their narcissistic tendencies, creating a compelling internal battle. One key takeaway from this exploration is that narcissism and pride alone do not define psychopathy but are key components on the behavioral gradient that adds complexity to characters labeled as 'evil.' This gradient perspective allows writers to avoid clichés, adding depth by showing how characters justify or obscure their malicious actions through excuses and denial. From personal experience, exploring these psychological traits through writing has enhanced my ability to create realistic, multifaceted characters who can evoke both empathy and revulsion in readers. It also reflects real societal patterns, where people often avoid admitting faults to protect their ego. Realizing this has deepened my appreciation for empathy’s value—not just as a writing tool but as an essential human skill that promotes understanding and growth. If you’re a writer or someone interested in psychology, I recommend diving deeper into the interplay between empathy and narcissism. Observing how this dynamic plays out in everyday life and literature can enrich your perspective and storytelling. Remember, empathy isn't just about feeling others’ pain, but also about recognizing when pride blinds us to our flaws and stalls personal development.
