The Mysterious Stranger

The Mysterious Stranger


This is about 'the mysterious stranger' in fiction. Well, one of the variations of that, at least. I'm not talking about the mysterious stranger who becomes the MC's lover in a romance novel, or the mysterious stranger who knocks on the door or gets into the MC's car in a horror movie. This is the person who shows up and gives info that contributes intrigue or info for the MC's adventure.

They may deliver the 'call to adventure' near the beginning, or arrive near the end to explain all the strange things that have been happening throughout the story.

There was Deep Throat in the X-Files, a government operative who knew everything about everything, but would only deliver enough information to make Mulder…and the audience…curious and intrigued. He would show up near the beginning, usually.

There was Sigourney Weaver in "The Cabin in the Woods" who appeared out of the shadows of an underground bunker at the end to explain the mind-boggling motivation behind the real-life slasher movie the characters had been experiencing.

Somewhere in the middle of the story was Markinson in "A Few Good Men", who showed up in the back of the MC's car to give crucial information about the murder case going on.

They're usually not a full blown character - but they are legion in fiction and it would be hard to get by sometimes without them!

I'm using one in my comic at the moment who will be explaining the bizarre goings on in the newest issue. A handy bridge for the readers, especially in extraordinary story circumstances!

Who's your favorite mysterious stranger? Ever used one in your comic?


I have more to tell you. Meet me in the dimly-lit parking garage in 20 minutes.

-Banes