Characterisation, tricky isn't it?

by Jessica Jones ( Jeyssika )

Just a few tips when you want the perfect character for your perfect story.

1) Keep in mind the genre.

If it's a mystery make sure your character is too. If you're writing an adventure or action book nobody wants to know that you're character is rather fond of almonds do they? They'd rather know if the character will escape the guy with the knife who is following them in quick pursuit.

2) Think names.

Spend as much time as you can on the character's name. All you have to do is read any of Charles Dickens books to know that the character's name means a lot and can pefectly reflect a lot about the character themselves just by the name - use google to find a few perfect examples of this perhaps.

3) Imagine.

You know exactly how you want your character to look, act, feel, speak...everything. But how do you write that? Close your eyes maybe and think really hard about how they do it and how you would describe it. Would they laugh at a certain joke, how would they laugh. How would they look at someone they liked, soemone they hated? Think of everything that stands out and let your reader know it so they too can relate with the character in the way they want.

The Challenge

Use my tips and try writing character profiles before you start writing your story. If you're having trouble with characterisation this helps. Think of everything - no matter how trivial. It doesn't matter if you don't include everything you come up with in your story this will help you imagine the perfect character who will fit perfectly into your perfect story.

Comments and feedback

1. 
   27/04/2010 Mattius The Wise
   

   Too right.
   It helps to know that your character is fond of almonds when writing, but you don't have to put it in your story. I've just been trying recently to put more of the character into the descriptions they give. It can change someone from being "a respectable businessman" to "a pompous cunt".
2. 
   12/07/2010 melly
   

   thanks but im not quite sure about that last bit
3. 
   12/07/2010 Jeyssika
   

   What do you mean by 'that last bit'? I'd be happy to help with any queries.

Finished reading this article?

Search for more writers' advice articles