So often we portray monsters as obstacles to overcome, things the hero needs to defeat in order to progress their own story. But so often, the monster is a victim.

Medusa was violated and gifted her monstrous form to protect her. Polyphemus was minding his own business. Fenrir wanted to be a good dog. Lyndworm was forced to change to become lovable.

And this trope doesn’t exist solely in mythology, we find it everywhere in pop culture.

Adam Frankenstein just wanted to be loved. The wolfman is different and must be hunted. The monsters in RPG caves are just living their lives when you rampaged through their home.

Seeing the world through the eyes of the Other is a fascinating experience, and I highly recommend this exercise to any writer. What does your monster want?