Creating Characters
October 16, 2008
It can be quite a daunting process to create a realistic character. Never fear, though, I have a few helpful tips for you!
If you visit pantone.com you can choose a color, and it will give a little explanation of it. There's a color for each day (so that takes picking a birthday out of the chore list), and one for every month. I've downloaded the widget, and use this to create a character once or twice a week. I take the information provided for that day, and then I interview the character. I find out what they like and hate. Their favorite foods, and what their hobbies are. Where are they from, how old are they, what's their family life like? What's their favorite book, movie, song? Typical "About Me" questions.
Then I'll use a word of the day tool (dictionary.com is my preference) to inspire a short story or poem the for the character. This is sort of a lengthy process, but if you take the time to do it, you'll get used to fleshing out characters. It's a very important skill to have if you ever intend to be a published author. :)
I also keep all of my characters outlines in a basket, and when I need something to write about I just pick one out and go for it. It's especially helpful to have this if you want to write a book but don't know where to start. You can just pick a character, and tell their story. What made their life so awesome? I'd love to find out. :D
It helps me to visualize the character if I sketch them out before I write their story. That way I get a feel of their appearance, and their attitude. So if you like to draw, give that a try!
Posted by Aimee Dickinson. Posted In : Writing