Character Development
- Juniper Creek Editing & Literary Services
- Dec 18, 2015
- 2 min read
Things to Keep in Mind When Developing a Character
Communication Style: How does your character speak? Do they tend to use specific words more than others? Location often defines our speech. Does your character speak with an accent? Personality can also greatly impact your character's speech. For instance, a flamboyant person with an outgoing personality will often speak loudly, with an air of exuberance, or in more dramatic ways. Someone with a formal education or upbringing may speak in a more grammatically-correct way.
History: We are shaped by our past. Think of your character's past- Where are they from & how has this shaped them, as well as their past experiences? Some background can be given, while other things can be hinted at throughout the story. We are all on a journey, and this is shaped by our background. Help the reader to understand the character by developing their journey. (Also keep in mind: their genealogy, upbringing, work life.)
Appearance: How does the character dress? What color are their hair or eyes, and how does this shape them, or help the reader to know them?
Relationships: So much of who we are can often be defined by our relationships, who we know and how we relate to people. This can change according to moods and situations. Consider these elements when developing a character. This is vital for main characters.
Thoughts: Many writers incorporate elements of thought into a character's dialogue. Internal thoughts often add layers of depth to understanding a character's motivation, weaknesses, decisions and actions.
Other tips: Everyone has flaws; for example, things that irritate us or traits that aren't so well-likable. Consider these things in relation to your character, and the impact that it has on their behavior or the situations in which they may find themselves in your story.
Keep Writing!
