The Writer's Chatroom Topic Chat: Building Characters

Published: Wed, 02/20/13


The Writer's Chatroom   www.writerschatroom.com

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 (Sally Franklin Christie is in charge tonight)
 
I like to build characters.  I like to name them, give them back stories, take them shopping, clean their closets, take them to Church, drag them on road trips and get to know them.
 
I keep character files.  I do not go as far as finding a picture of what they might look like but if the plot line needs it they get a blood type.  If I get stuck, I'll poke a character, mix her a drink and then question her about what she thinks is going on.  

HOW TO WRITE A CHARACTER FROM START TO FINISH 

 
This post takes us to different stops on character creation.
 
  • The Inner Journey

  • The Nexus

  • The Seeds of Change

  • The Role of Change

    • There is much more to building character than psych files, bios, mug shots or closed doors.  You have to let your character do things, change, become frustrated, win, lose and yes, you can let your character hang from a light pole while crows dive at him.  

    Come visit on Wednesday and help me through the topic. We might not make it all the way to the promised land but we'll have fun along the way.  I want to know how you create your characters.  I want to know how you prepare them to inhabit the pages of your stories.  If I want to know I bet a few others are just as curious.
     
    We'll take any other questions you may have in the second hour.
     
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    We look forward to chatting with you!
     
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     Having problems with your writing? Need plot advice or marketing tips? Looking for suggestions on who/what to read next? Come on in! If we don't know the answer, we'll make something up. We are creative people, ya know.  

    8 pm EST (check the clock above the login screen) the door will open. Type in the name you want us to call you by, and click the login button. No password needed for scheduled chats.