Meaning: The quote "Show me a character whose life arouses my curiosity, and my flesh begins crawling with suspense" by Fawn Brodie, an author and biographer, encapsulates the essence of what makes a compelling character in literature. Brodie's words express the idea that a well-crafted character has the power to captivate and engross the reader, evoking a sense of anticipation and intrigue. This quote suggests that when a character is written with depth, complexity, and mystery, it can elicit a strong emotional response from the audience, drawing them into the narrative and holding their attention.

Fawn Brodie (1915-1981) was an American biographer and historian known for her groundbreaking biographies, including "No Man Knows My History: The Life of Joseph Smith," a controversial biography of the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement. Brodie's work often delved into the lives of historical figures, and her quote can be interpreted as a reflection of her own approach to storytelling and character portrayal. By emphasizing the importance of a character's ability to arouse curiosity and suspense, Brodie highlights the significance of crafting characters that resonate with readers on a deep and compelling level.

In literature, characters serve as the driving force of a narrative, shaping the story and engaging the audience on an emotional and intellectual level. A character whose life arouses curiosity and suspense possesses qualities that make them enigmatic, multi-dimensional, and inherently fascinating. Such characters often have layers of complexity, contradictions, and hidden motivations that pique the reader's interest, prompting them to delve deeper into the narrative to uncover the mysteries and intricacies of the character's persona.

When a character is skillfully developed, their actions, decisions, and innermost thoughts become sources of suspense and intrigue, propelling the story forward and keeping the reader invested in the outcome. This quote by Fawn Brodie underscores the power of well-crafted characters to evoke visceral reactions from the audience, creating a sense of anticipation and emotional involvement that enriches the reading experience.

Furthermore, Brodie's quote can be seen as a testament to the enduring impact of memorable characters in literature. From classic literary figures like Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" to complex antiheroes like Walter White in the TV series "Breaking Bad," characters that arouse curiosity and suspense have the ability to leave a lasting impression on readers and viewers. Their enigmatic nature and compelling narratives invite audiences to become emotionally invested in their journeys, making them iconic and unforgettable in the realm of storytelling.

In conclusion, Fawn Brodie's quote eloquently captures the essence of what makes a character truly captivating and memorable in literature. By arousing curiosity and suspense, a well-crafted character possesses the ability to engage and enthrall readers, leaving a lasting impact on the narrative and the audience. Characters that evoke such visceral reactions have the power to elevate storytelling, making them essential components of compelling and immersive literary experiences.