Neil Fein's Blog

From the old Welcome Home project blog:

I was reading a bit on Robert J. Sawyer's site and came across a reference to Greek tragedy, and how it was deigned neccesary for each character would have a "tragic flaw". Sawyer himself cites the precedent of designng characters to order, to fit the plot.

Jacob has the flaw of accepting authority a mite too easily; this may not seem like much. It, however, opens the door to an enormous flood of guilt, threatening to overwhelm him.

Loretta has the flaw of formality. It is this that prevents her from getting too close to her husband, or, for that matter, her daughter, no matter how many experiences they share. She also has the strength of self-confidence.

Ellen has the flaw of insecurity, and being aware of it. She's afraid to show herself as unsure of anything, due to the example Loretta set. Her major "flaw", her handicap, isn't really a flaw at all.

I won't be doing any work on the album for the next month; I'll be busy with the wedding.