Still rewriting chapter 8. On the second pass now. It’s has taken a long time (here comes the rationalization) because I have finally found the core of this other major character’s voice. I finally see it now. There is still plenty to discover in doing the rewrites. You have the character in mind, write them down, see how they interact in the world, and then you find more layers of complexity, which you exploit for effect.

For chapter 9, I recognize a need for a tonal reprieve. The first 8 chapters are serious and intense. Instinctually, the reader needs a break. Otherwise, you exhaust the reader. In my humble opinion, the TV show “The Walking Dead” is one-note. Each scene is some philosophical reflection on the nature of existence in a world full of the undead. There is little levity. I know many people out there adore the show for this reason, or might disagree with my assessment, but those conversations amount to drudgery.

A good example is “Predator.” The movie is full of suspense and tension. There’s a vibe. But, Hawkins’ jokes (as crass as they are) break up that tension as a momentary reprieve. The movie has a moment for the audience to catch its breath before the Predator begins to take down Dutch’s team, one by one.

A tragedy feels balanced when there are healthy doses of comedy. And the inverse works for comedy.