How to Write a Novel Entirely from the Villain's Point of View

Writing a novel entirely from the villain's perspective can be a powerful and thought-provoking challenge. This approach requires a deep understanding of the antagonist and a willingness to explore their motivations, goals, and inner complexities. Here, we'll discuss key strategies and tips for successfully crafting a compelling narrative from the villain's point of view.

Establishing a Compelling and Complex Villain Protagonist

The first step in writing a novel from the villain's point of view is to establish a multifaceted villain protagonist. This character should have a rich backstory, intricate thought processes, and justifications for their actions. Unlike one-dimensional antagonists, your villain should be a flawed, relatable individual with motivations that make them understandable, if not wholly justifiable.

For example, consider a character like Thanos in the MCU. He could be portrayed as an enlightened savior who believes the universe is overpopulated, a cesspool of war-loving races, and thus requires a reboot through the removal of half of all life. This perspective transforms a villain into a character whose actions, while extreme, can be seen to have some degree of justification.

Avoiding Moralizing or Passing Judgment

When writing from the villain's perspective, one of the most crucial elements is to avoid moralizing or explicitly condemning or condoning their behavior. Instead, present the villain's worldview and choices objectively. This allows readers to form their own opinions and judgments, engaging them more deeply in the narrative.

Running the risk of villainizing the antagonist can detract from the reader's ability to connect with them on a human level. For instance, if a character like Thanos is simply portrayed as a cold, ruthless killer, readers may found it difficult to empathize with their belief in a greater good, even if it is not universally accepted.

Focusing on Personal Stakes and Emotional Journey

Even villains, regardless of their actions, typically have desires, fears, and internal conflicts. Exploring these aspects can add depth to your character and make them more relatable. For example, Thanos's actions may be driven by a deep-seated fear of the universe's inevitable destruction, leading him to believe that his plan is the only way to prevent such a fate.

Incorporating the villain's personal stakes and emotional journey can create a more nuanced and engaging character. By delving into their experiences and motivations, readers can form a more empathetic understanding of their actions, even if they ultimately disagree with them.

Using an Intimate First-Person Narrative

Using an intimate first-person narrative is an effective way to make readers feel as if they are inside the villain's mind. This approach allows readers to fully inhabit the villain's perspective and experience events through their lens. However, it's important to be mindful of maintaining a balanced and fair narrative. Care should be taken to avoid slipping into a villainizing voice or disregarding the perspectives of other characters.

For instance, in a story where Thanos is the protagonist, readers can experience the world through his eyes, seeing the justifications for his actions and the consequences of his decisions. This perspective shift can create a profound and immersive reading experience, inviting readers to question their own preconceptions about good and evil.

Balancing Darkness and Light

While the villain should be the central focus, it's important to balance darkness and light in the narrative. Incorporating moments of vulnerability, introspection, or even empathy can add depth and nuance to the character. These elements can humanize the villain, making their actions more understandable to the reader.

By carefully weaving these elements into the narrative, you can create a complex and multi-layered character that challenges readers to question their moral beliefs. This balance helps create a more memorable and thought-provoking reading experience, encouraging readers to engage with the story on a deeper level.

Avoiding Glorification of Villainous Actions

It's crucial to avoid glorifying or sensationalizing the villain's actions. Instead, aim to explore the ethical complexity and moral ambiguity inherent in human nature. For example, even if Thanos views his actions as necessary, his methods may still be justifiably questioned and criticized by readers.

By providing a thoughtful exploration of these themes, you can create a narrative that challenges readers to consider the complexity of human motivations and actions. This approach not only enriches the story but also fosters a deeper engagement with the characters and plot.

Conclusion

Crafting a compelling and complex character from the villain's point of view requires a deep understanding of their motivations, personal stakes, and emotional journey. By avoiding moralizing, incorporating moments of vulnerability and empathy, and using an intimate first-person narrative, you can create a rich and immersive reading experience that challenges readers to question their own beliefs about good and evil.