Law #21: Play a Sucker to Catch a Sucker—Seem Dumber Than Your Mark: A Writer's Guide

Story Marc
Feb 7
4 min read

The twenty-first law in The 48 Laws of Power, "Play a sucker to catch a sucker—seem dumber than your mark," emphasizes the strategic use of humility and misdirection to gain the upper hand. For writers, this isn’t about underhanded tricks but rather about managing perceptions, knowing when to hold back, and leveraging others’ assumptions for mutual benefit. Whether navigating the publishing industry, engaging readers, or collaborating with peers, this law can offer unique advantages when applied thoughtfully.

Here’s how to use this principle effectively and ethically in your writing career.

The Power of Underestimation

When people underestimate you, they let their guard down. This allows you to surprise them with your capabilities.

1. Let Your Work Speak for Itself:

Avoid overselling your skills or accomplishments upfront.
Example: A debut author who modestly presents their book can often exceed expectations, leaving readers and publishers impressed.
Application: Focus on delivering exceptional work rather than boasting about your potential.

2. Use Humility to Build Trust:

Acting unassuming can make others more comfortable and open to collaboration.
Example: Writers who admit they’re still learning often attract mentors or peers eager to help.
Application: Be honest about what you don’t know while showing a willingness to learn and grow.

3. Surprise With Your Depth:

Underplay your abilities initially, then reveal your strengths when it matters most.
Example: An author underestimated for self-publishing but achieves bestseller status proves the doubters wrong.
Application: Be strategic about when and how you showcase your talents.

Navigating Industry Relationships

Managing perceptions can help you gain allies and opportunities in the competitive publishing world.

1. Avoid Intimidating Potential Allies:

Appearing overly confident or aggressive can alienate agents, editors, or collaborators.
Example: A writer who humbly listens to feedback is more likely to gain an editor’s trust than one who appears defensive or overbearing.
Application: Approach professional relationships with humility and openness, letting your work create an impact.

2. Learn From Others’ Overconfidence:

Overconfident individuals often underestimate those around them, creating openings for you.
Example: A peer who dismisses you as inexperienced might let valuable insights slip during a conversation.
Application: Observe and listen carefully, using others’ assumptions to your advantage.

3. Deflect Attention Strategically:

Acting low-key can keep competitors from catching on too soon if you're pursuing a bold idea.
Example: An author quietly developing a unique genre-blending project might avoid unnecessary scrutiny until it’s ready to launch.
Application: Stay discreet about your most ambitious projects until the timing is right.

Engaging Readers With Subtlety

Readers appreciate authenticity and depth, but subtlety can make your work even more impactful.

1. Let Themes Emerge Naturally:

Avoid heavy-handed messaging. Trust readers to uncover deeper meanings on their own.
Example: In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, themes of justice and morality are woven subtly into the narrative.
Application: Focus on crafting compelling characters and plots that naturally convey your story’s message.

2. Underpromise and Overdeliver:

Set modest expectations, then exceed them with a gripping story or unexpected twists.
Example: A book marketed as a simple romance with profound emotional depth leaves a lasting impression.
Application: Avoid overhyping your work. Let readers discover its full impact for themselves.

3. Use Unreliable Narrators or Misdirection:

Playing with reader expectations can create powerful moments of surprise.
Example: Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl uses dual unreliable narrators to keep readers guessing.
Application: Experiment with narrative techniques that challenge readers to question what they think they know.

Collaborating Without Overpowering

Collaboration thrives when all parties feel valued. Knowing when to take a step back can strengthen partnerships.

1. Be a Good Listener:

Let collaborators share their ideas first. This fosters trust and ensures everyone feels heard.
Example: Co-writers who balance their contributions equally produce more harmonious work.
Application: Actively listen during brainstorming sessions and build on others’ ideas.

2. Avoid the Need to Dominate:

Collaboration isn’t a competition. Stepping back can sometimes create the best results.
Example: A marketing team that feels empowered to contribute creatively is more likely to produce innovative campaigns.
Application: Focus on collective success rather than individual recognition.

3. Strategically Share Credit:

Recognizing others’ contributions enhances your reputation as a team player.
Example: Thanking your editor publicly for their input demonstrates professionalism and gratitude.
Application: Acknowledge the role others play in your success, both privately and publicly.

Avoiding Pitfalls

While this law offers powerful strategies, using it ethically and thoughtfully is important.

Don’t Feign Incompetence:
- Pretending to be less capable than you are can come across as insincere.
- Solution: Be humble without undermining your credibility.
Avoid Manipulation:
- Using misdirection to exploit others will damage your reputation in the long run.
- Solution: Focus on building genuine relationships and letting your work shine naturally.
Know When to Step Forward:
- Staying in the background for too long can make you seem passive or disinterested.
- Solution: Balance humility with confidence, stepping into the spotlight when the time is right.

Conclusion: The Power of Subtlety and Strategy

Law #21, "Play a sucker to catch a sucker—seem dumber than your mark," is about leveraging humility and subtlety to gain an edge. In the writing world, this translates to managing perceptions, surprising others with your capabilities, and fostering trust and collaboration. By applying this law thoughtfully, you can navigate relationships, storytelling, and career challenges with grace and strategic insight.

In the next installment of this series, we’ll explore Law #22, "Use the surrender tactic: Transform weakness into power," and how embracing setbacks can become a strength in your writing journey. Stay tuned for more insights into The 48 Laws of Power for writers.