[A writer does two things when he introduces the dimension of memory]. First, your hero's personality and his motivations become clear. Because of the widespread knowledge of modern psychology, the writer cannot ignore motivation. It is no longer enough to describe how a character acts and feels; readers want to know why.

Secondly, the use of memories can become the fine-edged tool of the writer's craft. Memories bridge time and distance, heighten tension, reveal character, sharpen the moment of climax. These are only a few of the technical bonuses we reap when we use the characters' memories to our advantage as storytellers. (p. 18)

Just how much of a character's life hinges on memories can be revealing in itself. In my book for young people, Journey to America (… 1970), a minor character, the cook, is characterized largely by the fact that he lives in memories….

[We] know what to expect...