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This is another one of those topics that I had on my list and totally forgot what inspired it or where to go. Yet, I do feel compelled to write about it. Not because I have a lot to say, but I’m curious as to what people think.
We all know that intimidation is when a person threatens another person into submission or some kind of activity. This is typically done without using physical force, but that isn’t a standard. In fiction, it’s more common for a character to do this through words, facial expressions, posture, or their reputation. Intimidating another character is a sign of strength and general toughness. They get what they want because they know how to push people the right way.
Then there are times when a character is intimidating by accident. Most times this is done for comedic effect. The intimidating character is there to do something benign or unrelated to what the others are up to. Yet, their presence makes a villain think twice about acting or even blurt out a secret. There might some actions being taken that are threatening when taken out of context. For example, the intimidating character picking up a knife at a store could make a villain think they are about to attack, but they’re really out shopping for a birthday present. Again, this is for comedy.
I’ve seen a few scenes where the physical intimidation is mixed with verbal, which takes a lot of skill. The character will talk either directly to the unintentional target or to someone else in a vague way, which can be taken as threatening. You need to get very good at writing sentences that can have two meanings depending on the situation. I’m still trying to get the hang of that, which is why I’ve never attempted this. I think adding a verbal effect helps in selling the accidental intimidation too because it touches on more than the target’s sense of sight. Now, they’re hearing things that make them scared.
Another aspect of this type of thing could be the character’s physical appearance. I noticed that they tend to be big, muscular, angry face and sometimes scars. They don’t always look intimidating, but they happen to be in a mood during the scene. I think I remember this happening in ‘Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple’ when at least one of his teachers showed up and accidentally scared Kenichi’s opponents. The guy was big, muscular, scarred, etc. and was giving off an angry aura without meaning to. I think that’s how it went. All I really remember is that he was confused on why people were afraid of him, which tends to be a big part of the punchline.
Does anyone else have any thoughts or examples of this type of minor plot twist? Any that aren’t done for comedy?
Legends of Windemere 
Fun conflict! I’ve seen situations where someone spread a rumor of fierceness about someone who looked benign. The result was that when the person walked in the room, he was instantly feared without knowing why. And I’ve seen the mistaken identity scenarios where a lookalike is mistaken for someone else who is lethal and thereby intimidates all who see the person.
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I’ve seen that kind of scene before. I think it plays off the idea that things get exaggerated as they’re repeated. Kind of like the telephone game.
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Interesting concept, nice post !
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Thanks.
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I have not used intimidation in my writing, but I have been told that I come across as intimidating and scary in real life even though I am a nice guy. That might also be why I tend to get an extra search at airport security 🤔.
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Never thought of TSA reactions. Could be something behind that.
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In the last two books, I have had Lucifer show up. He is intimidating by nature but also has a fairly good sense of humor. As much as it confuses me, most readers tend to like the characterization. He is intimidating quite by accident since once he does show up he can be charming and not have to throw his weight around.
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I’ve noticed that happens a lot with Lucifer appearances. He always seems to be charming, but intimidating. It’s amazing how that’s always pulled off and feeling fresh too.
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One hopes it is fresh.
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I don’t know that I’d apply this as part of the plot, but it is character, and I’ve used it in scenes. I have a fan favorite character that tends to bulldoze his way through problems. I’d like to bring him back someday, but the right story hasn’t come along yet.
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It can push the plot forward if used well. You are right though. It is more characterization.
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