Short stories, even novels, sometimes have main protagonists with unclear motivations. This is not for the lack of skill of the writer, but because the writer chooses not to reveal too much of his protagonist, to keep him/her mysterious. Some writers believe that the less readers know about the main character, the more mysterious and interesting he/she is. In doing so, readers are left blank as to the motives of the main character that are not revealed in dialogue and introspection. The plot may be exciting, and this is what will keep readers turning pages. Perhaps the reader is more concerned with the plot twist and how it will end.

Example: A bemedalled soldier who just returned from Iraq was waiting for the incumbent town mayor to present his campaign speech at the town plaza. As the mayor running for reelection steps into the stage and begins his speech, the soldier jumps onto the stage, pulls out a knife and stabs the mayor. Then he presses a detonator to blow up some cars nearby as a diversion for his escape. 

Why has this soldier, who had given his dedicated service to his country, quiet and courteous as he is known in his small town, committed a horrendous act of violence that not only cost the mayor’s life but also collateral damage from the car explosions? What drove him to assassinate the mayor? The writer has kept away from the character, choosing to create tension through action. He makes the other characters react to the situation as the story continues to what the main character would do next.

Example: (After the assassination) A forensic expert examines the body of the mayor. “One stab wound that went through the left side of the rib cage. The blade is laced with poison. Any lead on the killer, Detective?”

“Private Desmond Hayes. He just got back from Iraq. He was discharged because according to his commanding officer, Hayes enjoyed killing too much.”

“What does the mayor have to do with it?”

‘We’re looking at the angle that our suspect is moonlighting as a killer for hire. He’s got no family. He has nothing to lose.”

Either the writer reveals character motivation near the end of the story or he will let him remain mysterious. Either way, it may no longer matter to the reader as long as Private Hayes remains intense, dramatic, and interesting from the mystery that insulates him. It is the supporting characters--perhaps even the antagonist, that will reveal more of Desmond Hayes’ character. The motivation of the antagonist and other characters provides readers with insight into what triggers the protagonist to do his questionable actions. More is revealed as the plot progresses, but whatever little that remains unknown of the protagonist best remains unknown. He creates an emotional connection through action and how he changes the lives of people around him. 

The writer who chooses to keep his protagonist mysterious must tread carefully and be sure that he is familiar with what he is trying to achieve. It is a considerable risk worth taking only if the writer knows what he is doing.