Definition
Need is what a character must understand, accept, or become in order to grow, often beneath conscious awareness. In many stories, need contrasts with want and drives the deeper arc.
Example
A workaholic may want a promotion but need to admit she uses busyness to avoid grief.
Related terms
Common mistakes
- Resolving only the external want and leaving the inner need untouched.
- Stating need in theme statements without dramatizing it in choice.