hapans:

I remember the initial conversations about having things ‘skinned.’ Peeling away layers to evolve into other people. And the person Kylo’s pretending to be on the outside is not who he is. He’s a vulnerable kid who doesn’t know where to put his energy. But when he puts his mask on, suddenly, he’s playing a role. J.J. had that idea initially, and I think Rian took it to the next level. – Adam Driver