Settings are obviously important - and as a writer, you have to respect what was real at the time of the story you're writing. But the real key to success lies in finding the right characters to carry that story.

The quote by Joan Lingard, a celebrated author, emphasizes the importance of settings and characters in storytelling. Lingard acknowledges that while settings are important and require respect for historical or cultural accuracy, the ultimate success of a story depends on finding the right characters to carry it. Her words highlight the balance between authentic context and compelling personalities that engage readers.

At its core, the quote underscores the centrality of character development in literature. Lingard suggests that even a meticulously described setting cannot fully capture readers’ attention unless the story features characters who are believable, relatable, and capable of driving the narrative forward. Characters are the lens through which the audience experiences the story, making their creation pivotal to literary success.

The origin of the quote comes from Lingard reflecting on her own experiences as a writer. Having written numerous novels for both young adults and adults, she emphasizes the need to balance historical accuracy, context, and the depth of characterization. By doing so, Lingard highlights her philosophy of crafting stories that are both authentic and emotionally resonant.

Ultimately, the quote serves as both guidance and insight for aspiring writers. Lingard’s words encourage authors to respect the reality of the world they depict while prioritizing the creation of strong, memorable characters, as these elements together determine the story’s impact and success.

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