Wednesday Writes: Characters

The way I always begin my stories is with a good character.

The story happens to the character--the story is how the character DEALS with the things that happen. 

So, there's a character rolling around in my head. I write down everything I know about him or her. What they look like, personality traits---everything.

And then I ask myself, So what?

What's the big deal about this character? What is so extraordinary about this ordinary person? 

Then the story comes. 

It's important that you know your character and know how they react to situations (yes, I am writing as if the character is a real person). If you constantly write how you would respond, you're not going to get much of a story. 

You may draw inspiration for the character from people around you. In all honesty, a character for one of my stories is based on my niece. Not exactly, but some of her is definitely in the character. (Thanks, Angela! You're awesome!). But be careful not to base every character on people you actually know. You should be observing people and making mental notes of traits and maybe start putting odd traits together. Like what about a hit man who is very shy? That opens up endless possibilities for a twist of a story!

So, know your characters. Try to match up conflicting traits. 

And always when you write? Make sure you're having fun. And fall in love with your story. It makes it easier to write when you're passionate about it.

Cheers!