How far would you go in a backstory?

When it comes to backstory, balance is key. Provide just enough to give context and depth to your characters without overwhelming the main plot. Sprinkle details throughout the story rather than dumping it all at once. Keep it relevant and engaging.

When revealing background details, I try to stick to context-specific information. Only reveal what is natural for the present scene. This could be a little or a lot depending on the nature of the scene.

I try to include just enough backstory to give a character motivation for their actions in the present. Often that means I will have to circle back and add details when the story takes an unexpected turn. It's not enough that I know their reasons in my mind, the reader has to know them too. I will occasionally use flashbacks, but think it's better to set things up in advance. It brings about that "Oh, yeah" moment that captures the reader's attention.

I think it's a matter of world-building, and it's each reader's choice. quoting Lex Luthor in the first Superman, "Some people can read War and Peace and come away thinking it's a simple adventure story. Others can read the ingredients on a chewing gum wrapper and unlock the secrets of the universe." If you are good with Jack and Jill fucking in a meadow, fine. I prefer to know WHY they are in the meadow.

Quote by Mandapanda2025
If you are good with Jack and Jill fucking in a meadow, fine. I prefer to know WHY they are in the meadow.

Me as well. I find it hard to write a "stroke story". I keep thinking about the why too much.

Statistically, the stories I’ve written that have deeper backstories are less popular than those that do not. All have fewer likes, favorites, and comments. Granted, it could just be a coincidence.

Personally, when I am reading a story, I like to know the “why”. That being said, if there is too much of a backstory, I sometimes find myself jumping ahead. As a writer, I am still trying to find the right balance.

Before the dawn of time. If a story doesn't contain a "big bang" I'm not interested.

I try to avoid a backstory puke. If one is provided early, all that's necessary is to ground the reader in the moment and place so they can enter the flow of the story. Then, as the story unfolds, it can be worked in as unobtrusively as possible so the reader feels they're simply getting to know the characters or situation better without having it "splained" to them.

Writing a story is like having sex... too much too soon is a turn off. It's nice for intimacy and familiarity to grow as you progress and, little surprises here and there add to the experience.