Hey fellow writers!
Welcome to the IABX Wednesday Writing Tip! Today, we explore Character Differentiation Analysis: Fleshing Out What You’ve Started.
When crafting characters, meticulous attention is essential. Join us as Kris Spisak guides you through the journey of character development.
Unveiling Character Depth
In the whirlwind of initial drafts, characters often emerge as mere outlines, awaiting refinement during the editing phase. Prewriting and planning provide a foundation, yet it’s through the narrative that characters truly reveal themselves.
(It's "flesh out," not "flush out," but you're already in the know, right?)
Refining Your Characters Post-Draft
After the first draft, enhancing character differentiation becomes pivotal. Here are three focal points for character refinement:
Emotional “Tells”
Just like in real life, characters possess unique emotional cues. Consider their subtle gestures, mannerisms, and expressions beyond typical reactions. These nuances, known as "emotional tells," breathe life into characters, fostering deeper connections with readers.
Body Language
Each character should move uniquely, reflecting individuality through gestures, posture, and physical presence. Observe real-life behaviors for inspiration, capturing the authenticity that enriches storytelling.
Dialogue
Dialogue should distinguish characters, not echo the author's voice. Vary speech patterns, vocabulary, and energy levels to develop distinct voices. Dialogue becomes a powerful tool for character development and advancing the narrative.
Bringing Characters to Life
During editing, transcend skeletal drafts to sculpt characters with depth and resonance. Your goal isn’t just to portray a character but to evoke a vivid presence in your readers’ minds.
Push the boundaries of your writing and editing prowess. Let your characters transcend the page, resonating as profoundly as cherished acquaintances.
Conclusion
With dedication and insight, transform your characters from mere outlines to vibrant personas. As writers, our mission is to imbue life into every word and evoke worlds of imagination.
Keep writing with purpose and passion. You’ve got this!
Happy Writing!
From IABX
***Source: writersdigest.com
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