10 Writing Resources: Characters
From the basics to the very in-depth, these are some of the resources I go to when I’m developing new characters. Have a look at my favorites, and add your own!
1. 25 Things About Creating Characters
As a writer, creating characters is probably the most important thing you do. Get it wrong, and the story will be wrong no matter how well plotted.
2. Lessons From James Scott Bell: Characters That Jump Off The Page
Readers are engaged by characters who do not always act in a predictable way. Think of how to have your character make decisions or respond in ways the reader won’t see coming.
3. Crafting Memorable Characters
Successful main characters are the agents of their own destiny, they are someone we root for, and they grow or change during the course of the novel.
4. 6 Must-Know Tricks for Getting to Know Your Characters
Most of us don’t start writing until we’ve come up with a character we just adore. But how can we make sure this character will also be adored by our readers?
5. Creating Your Hero’s Fatal Flaw
The most intriguing conflicts are the ones that come from within people’s own personalities.
6. Five Unrealistic Character Traits
These characters have traits that are so unrealistic, the audience starts thinking about the author’s intention rather than the story at hand.
7. 100 Character Development Questions for Writers
Answer these in character, but only in a situation where your character would be 100% honest with themselves and with the person asking the question.
What are gesture crutches, and why should we avoid them?
9. The Path to Deepening Your Protagonist
Protagonists don’t write themselves. No character does. So why leave trait-choice up to the character?
10. Nine Kick-Ass Excercises to Find Your Character’s Voice
Creating unique voices for each viewpoint character is essential in creating fiction readers want to read over and over.
What about you? What are your favorite blog posts about creating characters?
Cheat Sheets for Writing Body Language
We are always told to use body language in our writing. Sometimes, it’s easier said than written. I decided to create these cheat sheets to help you show a character’s state of mind. Obviously, a character may exhibit a number of these behaviours. For example, he may be shocked and angry, or shocked and happy. Use these combinations as needed.
I figured I would upload my ATG stuff, I will post the rest of the days as well. I missed the 5th day though..
I have been ready. For years. There are tears.
Man, my boy Chris Pratt’s really all over the place now, huh? Definitely looks like it’s gonna be a more serious role than I’ve seen him in yet though, ridiculous-looking motorcycle scene and all, though. I hope he gives it all he’s got!
Tuesday Tips — Hand design — MASCULINE vs. FEMININE
These are some design 101 that I always keep in mind whenever I’m designing hands; mass, shape, and pose.
The basic rule of thumb for mass and shape is, the bulkier and wider the shape; it will appear more masculine. And the longer, leaner, slender the shape; it will appear more feminine.
Different pose will give masculine/feminine quality. So when I want to make my hand appear more masculine, I think of stereotype of strong big person, like a superhero (hulk, superman, Xena … etc), or Michelangelo’s hand from creation of Adam. And when I’m designing feminine hand, I think of a graceful dancer. Another feminine stereotype pose is having the pinky flares out, like the way English ladies holding their tea cups.
I also attached one of my illustration as an example of feminine hand.
XO,
Griz


