Making characters seem real can be really difficult, especially for new writers. But there are some things that all writers can do, new or experienced that'll make their lives easier.
The idea behind a real character is that the reader can feel for them. Readers need to sympathize with the hero, hate the villain's guts (or possibly be confused by their actions), and hope the romance lasts or ends. Readers are in for a ride, and it's your job to give it to them.
The trick behind doing that is making your characters as real to you as your best friends are. You will most likely know more about them than your readers, at least at first. Don't try to reveal everything about your characters all at once. It just overwhelms the reader and they can't remember it all.
Characters also need to be fallible. No one is perfect, not even your favorite character. Their faults only add to them, and readers love them even more as they sympathize.
Example:
Edgeshifter is a good person, and we love her. She always does the right thing, even if it hurts her. We sympathize with her as she struggles and we hope for the best for her sake.
It also helps when we add little quirks and habits that bring the characters to life and make them more memorable.
Example:
Edgeshifter is nicknamed "Edge" by friends and family. She is white-scaled and has piercing blue eyes. These are little things that don't really affect her personality but fit right in with it.
Questions on how else you can make characters come to life? Write a comment! I love feedback.
Showing posts with label Stuck. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Stuck. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Bad Writing Day? 7 Things to Do to Get Writing
You're stuck again. The words just won't come, right? You want to write that scene but can't get it out on paper.
We all have those days when we just struggle with every word. Some days will just be slow and some parts will just be a struggle. But there are things you can do to get the writing juices flowing again.
1. Go for a walk.
Sometimes, a little fresh air can make all the difference. Go on a walk down the street, go for a run, just get moving. Sometimes, that's all you need.
2. Read a book.
After writing for awhile, your mind might just be on overload. Take a break and pick up a good book. Letting your mind take it easy may inspire you.
3. Listen to music.
Music can be inspiring. If your stuck on a particular scene, try listening to music that fits the tone of the scene. It could make a huge difference. If that fails, just listening to music and relaxing can clear your mind.
4. Struggle through it.
Easier said than done, right? But if you have to meet a deadline or just want to get through it, you can just push yourself through the scene. If you have to, just sloppily write it out. You can always fix it later. Sometimes, getting it out on paper makes a big difference.
5. Relax.
Take a bath, take a nap, eat something, socialize. If you've been writing for awhile, you might be getting a little distracted. Attention might grow short. If you need a break, take one!
6. Pacing.
Sometimes we see this on the movies. Someone pacing as they plan. This is my personal remedy for blocks. Sometimes, just focusing your energy on walking back and forth while you think can make a difference.
7. Talk to someone.
Another thing you can do is just talk to someone about what you're having a hard time. I usually tell my sister what the problem is. Most of the time, I get an idea when I'm explaining the problem.
So that's it. Next time your stuck, give these a try. Different remedies work for different people. You never really know what'll work until you give it a try!
We all have those days when we just struggle with every word. Some days will just be slow and some parts will just be a struggle. But there are things you can do to get the writing juices flowing again.
1. Go for a walk.
Sometimes, a little fresh air can make all the difference. Go on a walk down the street, go for a run, just get moving. Sometimes, that's all you need.
2. Read a book.
After writing for awhile, your mind might just be on overload. Take a break and pick up a good book. Letting your mind take it easy may inspire you.
3. Listen to music.
Music can be inspiring. If your stuck on a particular scene, try listening to music that fits the tone of the scene. It could make a huge difference. If that fails, just listening to music and relaxing can clear your mind.
4. Struggle through it.
Easier said than done, right? But if you have to meet a deadline or just want to get through it, you can just push yourself through the scene. If you have to, just sloppily write it out. You can always fix it later. Sometimes, getting it out on paper makes a big difference.
5. Relax.
Take a bath, take a nap, eat something, socialize. If you've been writing for awhile, you might be getting a little distracted. Attention might grow short. If you need a break, take one!
6. Pacing.
Sometimes we see this on the movies. Someone pacing as they plan. This is my personal remedy for blocks. Sometimes, just focusing your energy on walking back and forth while you think can make a difference.
7. Talk to someone.
Another thing you can do is just talk to someone about what you're having a hard time. I usually tell my sister what the problem is. Most of the time, I get an idea when I'm explaining the problem.
So that's it. Next time your stuck, give these a try. Different remedies work for different people. You never really know what'll work until you give it a try!
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