Writing a Murder Scene from the Murderer’s Perspective: Motives and Realities

Have you ever wondered how to write a fascinating murder scene from the murderer's point of view? Understanding the myriad motives that drive such actions is crucial to crafting a compelling narrative. Whether it's vengeance, a rationalized threat, or even a sudden fit of rage, each motive can be explored to create a vivid and atmospheric scene in your story. In this article, we will delve into various common motives and provide examples to help you write more compelling murder scenes.

Motive: Vengeance and Envy

Vengeance and envy are powerful motivators in driving a character to commit a murder. Consider this example: Joe and Jack, two colleagues, share a rivalry for a job promotion. Joe secures the promotion, leaving Jack feeling despondent. Jack loses his girlfriend and his job, leading him to believe that Joe is the sole reason for his downfall. This result, however, only confirms his belief of Joe's superior worth. Jack begins to fabricate reasons why Joe was chosen over him, such as believing Joe cheated by “butt kissing” or suspecting Joe of sabotage.

Over time, Jack develops a grudge against Joe and eventually decides to act on it. His motive is clear: Joe’s success is a direct affront to Jack's perception of his own importance and value. In a violent and spontaneous act, Jack confronts Joe and, driven by a combination of rage and fear, takes his life.

Motive: Threat and Survival

Another common motive is the threat of a survival issue. Joe sees Jack as a rival who is threatening his security and success. Joe possesses everything but is deeply insecure about it. With the new competition, Jack is steadily encroaching on Joe's sphere, especially in the dating pool. Joseph feels that if Jack is not eliminated, he will lose everything. This becomes a simple survival decision, prompting Joe to take drastic action. However, Joe’s plan goes awry, and now he is aware of Jack’s intentions to harm him. To avoid incarceration and possibly death, Joe becomes the perpetrator and kills Jack in a moment of panic.

The scene can be intense and chaotic, with Joe using an improvised weapon, such as a kitchen knife or a book, to carry out his murderous act. The urgency and desperation of the situation add to the dramatic tension, making the act of murder all the more terrifying and realistic.

Motive: A Fit of Rage

fits of rage can also drive a character to act out and commit a murder. These extreme states of anger can lead to actions that otherwise would be unimaginable. For instance, a woman might lose control and inadvertently kill her spouse or friend during a sudden rage. Such rage can strip away all rational thought, leaving the character with superhuman strength, incapable of self-control.

A classic example involves a friend or competitor who is unaware of the intense rage the angery person is experiencing. In this scenario, Joe might have been so enraged that he blacked out and inadvertently killed someone, like his wife, while in a state of uncontrolled intensity. This moment of unstoppable rage can be a powerful tool for creating memorable and impactful scenes in your writing.

Motive: Honor and Protection

Honor and the protective instinct can also be powerful motives in driving a character to commit murder. In these cases, the act of revenge is often seen as a necessity to restore honor. For example, if Jack's wife finds out about a guy blackmailing Joe, she might become enraged and choose to protect her husband by pushing him off a balcony, resulting in his death. Similarly, a father who learns that someone has hurt his daughter might defend her fiercely, ultimately resulting in the death of the perpetrator.

Conclusion

Understanding the different motives behind a murder can enhance your storytelling skills and help you write more compelling and realistic scenes. Whether it's vengeance, a threat to survival, a fit of rage, or the desire to protect, these motives can add depth and drama to your narrative. By exploring these aspects, you can craft captivating murder scenes that engage and intrigue your readers.