I grew up on coffee. My dad kept a thermos in the car and was happy to share. It wasn't just any coffee. It was New Orleans coffee with chicory. No other coffee tastes quite like it. However, like other coffee, it is bitter if left black and unsweetened. The amount of sweetener is key. Too little and the coffee will still be bitter. Too much and it starts to taste like syrup.
Why am I talking about coffee on a blog about writing? I'm glad you asked. A story has a similar problem. Left alone, a story is in danger of being too bland. However, if you spice it up too much, it loses believability.
Up to now, I've stuck to the script on the novel I'm writing. I've decided it's time to add a little something. Nothing radical. Just a slight change in personality. I got the idea from a study a friend of mine has been making on heroes. Thanks Marji.
