Writing a novel as if the characters could run away – P.G.Wodehouse Quotes for Writers (and people who like quotes)

The principle I always go on in writing a novel is to think of the characters in terms of actors in a play. I say to myself, if a big name were playing this part, and if he found that after a strong first act he had practically nothing to do in the second act, he would walk out. Now, then, can I twist the story so as to give him plenty to do all the way through?
P.G. Wodehouse

photo credit: 2011-11-15 MAHS “Anyone can whistle” dress rehearsal _MG_2305 via photopin (license)