Some Tips For Killing Off Blind Characters Without Being Ableist

Hello! I'm wondering if you have any advice for navigating character death without it feeling disrespectful or like representation being snatched away (I'm talking about important blind characters / protagonists dying towards or at the end of stories, not blind characters getting killed off right at the beginning)? One thing I thought of is having other blind characters in the same story who don't die, but are there any other things I should be aware of? Any pitfalls to avoid? Thank you so much!

Some Tips for Killing Off Blind Characters Without Being Ableist

It will depend on the actual story, the tone, and how the death is portrayed, but I have a few ideas I can provide. While I normally suggest avoiding death of blind characters, I understand that sometimes it works for the story. A lot of my concerns stem from how the death itself is portrayed and what messages the audience are expected to gain from it. I’ll attempt to explain more in the following advice.

Killing off blind characters becomes less of a concern when they are not the only blind character. Having more blind characters as you suggested would have been my first recommendation.

When it comes to losing representation, having other characters is helpful. Having a cast of mostly blind characters isn’t going to present as much of a problem compared to a cast with only one blind character who dies.

Avoiding death due to blindness would also help. This includes someone killing the blind character because of blindness, them killing themself because of blindness, the character having a fatal accident due to their blindness, or the character’s death being portrayed as tragic because the character was outside or doing something viewed as less safe for blind people. An example of this situation would be if Toph from Avatar: the Last Airbender was told fighting in the Earth Rumble was unsafe, did it anyway, and was killed in the ring. Blind people already have our daily activities viewed as unsafe, which can be infantilizing, and so having media portray the tragic death of a blind character who dared to go on a quest wouldn’t be fun to read.

My advice is to afford them agency in their death rather than focusing on torture, trauma, or passivity. It sounds like you’re already on the right course, but I wanted to include this here just in case.

Additionally, framing the character as their own person, rather than focusing on how their death makes sighted people feel, would be beneficial in giving them agency. Again, you are on the right course, according to your question, as this probably occurs more often with disabled characters who die as part of backstory or toward the beginning of the story.

Of course, I cannot give you the exact best formula for killing off blind characters, but hopefully this gives you some direction.

I also suggest having a few sensitivity readers. Aside from me, you can find more options here. @sensitivityreaders

How to Write Betrayal

Betrayal is a powerful plot element that is represented in countless stories. The gravity of betrayal brings a profound depth to character dynamics, plots, and themes alike, making it an indispensable tool for writers to explore emotions, conflicts, and the complexities of human nature. Let’s explore some quick tips on how to write betrayal!

Behaviour

Secretive actions

Dishonesty

Becoming emotionally distant

A sudden change in routine

Pushing people away

Nervous or fidgety movement

Frequent lying or making up stories

Unexpected aggression or irritability

Unjustified mood swings or emotional outbursts

Increasingly defensive

Interactions

Disturbed interpersonal relationships

Frequent misunderstandings or fights

Withholding information

Avoiding personal discussions

Insincerity in conversations

Frequently cancelling or missing plans

A sudden shift in relationship dynamics

Quick to deflect or place blame

Frequent subject changes

Gradual emotional detachment

Body Language

Avoiding direct eye contact

Defensive stance and crossed arms

Covering mouth or touching face

Shuffling or restless movements

Forcing smiles or laughter

Constantly looking around or at the ground

Stiff, tense posture

Heavy breathing or frequent sighing

Avoiding touch or skin contact

Exaggerated gestures

Attitude

A lack of concern or empathy

Increasingly personal and hurtful arguments

Erratic or unpredictable reactions

Self-centeredness

Insincerity

Dismissive or negative attitude

Callous disregard for other's feelings

A negative or pessimistic outlook

Inability to handle criticism

Withdrawal from relationships

Positive Story Outcomes

In the wake of a betrayal, a story can manifest various positive outcomes that add depth to the plot and its characters. Relationships can be strengthened, showing their resilience. Characters may discover newfound self-reliance and learn valuable lessons about trust and forgiveness, leading to an increase in empathy and understanding, personal growth, and the reinforcement of personal values. These experiences can encourage a clearer understanding of personal boundaries, prompt self-reflection, introspection, and the development of healthier coping mechanisms. Ultimately, these positive outcomes can bring about improved communication and honesty, forming the silver lining in the cloud of betrayal.

Negative Story Outcomes

The aftershocks of betrayal can reverberate throughout your story. This might include an irreparable fracture of trust and damage to relationships. Betrayal can trigger psychological trauma, leading to an increase in suspicion and insecurity. Feelings of inadequacy or self-blame may surface, and characters can experience a heightened sense of isolation. The fear of forming new relationships or trusting others can become overwhelming. There may also be an escalation of conflict or violence and the reinforcement of negative behaviours or patterns. Damaged self-esteem or self-worth may be another repercussion, and this can encourage destructive coping mechanisms.