Characters that Work

There are many aspects to building character in fiction novels. Melding our characters with real world attitudes helps readers connect to the person and the plot. But, the most important aspect of building character is the character’s ability to change.

By the end of our story, that character needs to grow into a more mature, experienced individual. Their struggles need to have taught them wisdom, which changes their viewpoints, forever.

Writers are creative problem solvers and often pattern their characters’ vital points on themselves. Once, I sat in an audience listening to a very successful writer talk about his lead character, a personality that appeared in many of his most popular works.

“Of course,” he said, “it helps me want to write to know that my character is a middle aged bald man that…” He went on to describe himself, in detail. Everyone in the room related and laughed. We all plant a part of ourselves into our heroic characters.

A living, breathing character has vivid traits, a dynamic purpose, human qualities that justify or explain their failures, are consistent in what they say or do. Their very existence supports the theme of the story. The character’s point of view adds an intimate touch to the storyline and compels a reader’s attention.

Love your characters. Invest yourself in them. Cry when they cry. Laugh when they laugh. As you do so, your characters, and your stories, will come to life!