Underdogs

The Underdog is a staple of fiction. Protagonists, by and large, are Underdogs.

It probably makes them more relatable; how are we supposed to root for someone who either has, or easily gets whatever they want? Where is a character supposed to go unless they start out low?

Even the highly capable types are often Underdogs in some way or other. They're in an unfamiliar environment. Or they have ability but no status. Or money. Or whatever.

They're Underdogs.

Of course, sometimes you have the…"Top Dog" types. They have success in life, and may even be happy. It's these types that are brought down to learn their lessons, or get their comeuppance in some way.

And there are a couple different types of Underdogs.

You have your "Young Pups": naive kids, teens, or youthful adults who set off on the adventures that will set them toward adulthood.

These characters can work, and I remember the sorts of things I wrote when I was a teenager ALWAYS featured Young Pups as the heroes. But overall, they're not as interesting to me these days.

I like "Old Dogs". These are those who've lived a little life, have some scars, and have damage to overcome. These are far more compelling characters to me these days. They may not be literally OLD, but they have some miles behind them, before we meet them.

And that's what I thought about today. Have a good Thursday.

And be good!