"One of the most important elements of a good short story is an engaging protagonist (main character). Think of a protagonist that stands out in your mind--either from a TV show, movie, novel, or short story. Then think about WHAT MAKES that character so memorable. Identify and write about that character on an index card. (Provide as many clear details as possible.)"
A character that stands out in my mind is Socrates from the independent film A Peaceful Warrior. The owner of a gas station and mechanic shop, this mysterious, white haired old man is an enigma for the entirety of the movie, at the end of which he vanishes completely. He constantly provides the other main character of the film with Mr-Miagi like advice and challenges--for example, a long hike to the top of a mountain to see a "special place" that turns out to be a small, nondescript rock, with the advice that the journey was more important than the destination. Socrates at many times infuriates his young apprentice with his quiet demeanor; an example of this is in the fact that he never reveals his true name to the boy--causing the boy to dub him Socrates out of frustration. Even though the movie itself wasn't that great, and the other lead was entirely forgettable, Socrates sticks in my head, along with many of the lessons he teaches his apprentice.
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