Understanding the Flat Character Arc: A Case Study with Katniss Everdeen

Not every compelling character needs a massive transformation. Sometimes the most powerful stories come from characters who don’t change—but instead, they change the world around them. That’s what we call a flat character arc, and on this episode of The Write It Scared Podcast, I’m breaking down exactly what that means.

I know—a “flat” arc might sound boring, right? 

But trust me, flat arcs can be incredibly dynamic and emotionally engaging. 

Think of characters like Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. Katniss doesn’t fundamentally change who she is, but her unwavering strength, determination, and beliefs begin to transform everything around her.

Here’s what we’re diving into in this episode:

• What a flat (also called “steadfast” or “static”) arc really is—and why it’s misunderstood
  
  
• The key difference between flat arcs and positive or negative arcs
  
  
• How to craft a flat character who feels vibrant, real, and deeply relatable
  
  
• Using Katniss Everdeen as a practical case study to explore how flat arcs work within traditional story structures
  
  
• Practical, actionable tips for creating compelling flat arc characters readers will love

If you’ve ever struggled with characters who resist change or wondered if every protagonist truly needs to transform, this episode is exactly what you need.

Episode Breakdown

• 00:00 – What exactly is a flat character arc?
• 01:30 – Quick refresher: Positive vs. Negative vs. Flat arcs
• 01:52 – Defining flat character arcs clearly (and busting myths!)
• 05:09 – How to craft dynamic, compelling flat arc characters
• 07:17 – Examples of iconic flat arc characters
• 07:42 – Deep dive: Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games
• 08:10 – Story structure and the flat arc: how it fits in
• 10:39 – Breaking down Katniss’s journey step-by-step
• 20:29 – Key takeaways and tips for your own flat arcs
• 22:07 – Wrap-up + what’s coming next!

Other Episodes mentioned 

Episode 52: Crafting a Corruption Arc

Episode 48: Crafting a Falling Arc

Episode 46: Crafting a Disillusionment Arc

Episode 42: Crafting Positive Arcs of Change