Paul Sheldon, the protagonist, is a bestselling author of romance novels. He's a "tall man, forty-two years old," twice divorced, and is addicted to alcohol. Paul has a "vivid imagination" (56), which he's used to write a series of best-selling romance novels centered on Misery Chastain, "darling of the dump bins and sweetheart of the supermarkets" (62). When the novel begins, Paul has just finished writing Fast Cars, his first non-Misery­ novel, which he hopes will garner him the critical praise he desires. His journey represents The Perils of Fame and Confronting Addiction. During his time as Annie's prisoner, Paul swings between terror, hopelessness, and depression and inspiration, hope, and bravery.

Throughout the novel, Paul undergoes significant development, evolving from a successful yet complacent author to a resilient and resourceful survivor. Initially, Paul is frustrated with being known solely for his Misery series and yearns to write more serious literature. His captivity by Annie Wilkes forces him to confront his vulnerabilities and reassess his priorities. Through his ordeal, Paul discovers inner strength and ingenuity, ultimately fighting for his freedom and survival. Paul then uses this journey to inform his art as he explores other avenues of fiction not tied to his Misery series.