Writing can be Murder!

Sometimes the decision comes to kill off a character.  I've killed off a number of characters in my time.  In my original version of W.B.S.F., I think there was something like seven people who were knocked off.  Even the final version has about six people dying.  What prompts me to kill off a character?  I think it really comes down to the need to create tension and show that the stakes are high for the main characters.  If no one dies, then is there really the possibility that someone you care about could die?  Are they really in danger?  

I made the decision to kill off a majorish character in W.t.W.W.Y.N. and while it was sad for the characters (and me), I think it was the right decision to create tension and conflict.  So, good-bye to all those killed off characters...you should be happy knowing your death made the story better!