We all know that a good villain thinks he’s the hero of his own story. But a narcissistic villain is convinced of it.
Let’s face it: no one wants to read about a hero who easily overcomes all opposition. That’s bo-o-o-oring. We like watching a little hobbit take three films (or books) to arrive at Mount Doom in spite of incredible odds to get that ring into the fire, so we can yell, “Hooray!”
We read books and watch films to share in the adventure, so that when the hero wins, we win, no matter what challenges are thrown our way. It’s so much more satisfying when those challenges are … well, really challenging.
But what about that narcissist?
Kristen Lamb wrote a great blog on narcissists and gaslighting, a common control technique. These are particularly scary villains, because they’re very hard to fight. All the more satisfying, then, when we see one overcome by our persistent hero.
Gaslighting, a term borrowed from an old film aptly titled “Gaslight,” is a technique used by narcissists to make a victim believe their concerns are all in their head. Imaginary. Overblown. That the victim is out of touch with reality in their beliefs. It’s more common than you think. But what great villains they make.
And, as I’ve always said, your hero is only as good as his opposition. The stronger your villain, the better your hero’s going to look when he wins the day. Since most villains believe they’re the hero—in fact, believe it so strongly that they’ll risk anything to beat your hero—you have the perfect push-pull to drive a villain-driven story.
How do you beat a gaslighter, then?
It takes immense strength and conviction, as well as calm. Gaslighters thrive on emotional outburst. If your hero lets his or her temper or emotion get the better of them, they’re going to fail, because the villain will then say, “They’re crazy! Look how ridiculous they sound!” And your hero will lose. Matter of fact, let your hero lose a couple of times. Show your readers what’s at stake if they do lose. When the hero later wins, it will be that much more of a victory.
Every good battle arc should have a moment when it seems all is lost for your hero. Here, it would be when the gaslighter seems to have triumphed and put the victim “in their place.” But the hero that sticks to his convictions will eventually exhaust the gaslighter’s patience. After all, a “victim” who doesn’t respond to the bait is no victim at all.
Have you written a narcissist or gaslighter? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Happy Writing (and Reading)!
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