Elana Johnson, Jennifer Daiker and Alex Cavanaugh have posed the question "What makes a compelling character?" I'm joining the blogfest bandwagon late, but hey, better late than never right? Plus, I didn't want to feel left out with all these other people writing about their ideas of compelling characters.
So, without further ado, I think compelling characters need:
1) A Unique Voice. Every person talks different, has different phrases and words they use, etc. I think their voices should definitely shine through.
2) Goals. Without a goal, why do we care? Why do we follow that character?
3) Flaws. Nobody's perfect. (Well, except for Jesus). If there's a character who is without flaws I don't want to read about them. They just don't seem lifelike and they have no way to grow--which makes for static characters. I like those dynamic ones!
4) Persistence. Every person meets up with obstacles and opposition. It's how they persevere that keeps me interested. If they give up, I give up on the book too.
It's interesting to me how, as a writer, I will have a slight idea of what my characters are like. Then, as I'm writing, more of their character unfolds. They reveal more of who they are, what they like and don't like, what their flaws and fears are. I find them more and more compelling as the writing continues. It's like they create their own compellingness (is that even a word?). And I think that's awesome!
Definitely a Unique Voice! And I like the persistence too. What would a book be if the character's gave up? Great advice.
ReplyDeleteCharacters who give up.... make me give up on them... and tell others not even to bother!
ReplyDeleteUnique voice is key as well, no two people are the same - neither are characters
Great post :-)
ReplyDeleteI really agree with how the characters grow and "reveal" themselves as you're writing the story. (As if they really become real people as you're going along!)
Persistence. Definitely persistence ;)
ReplyDeleteI like that you added persistence! Crucial component, but often overlooked. Can't have them giving up at the first sign of trouble, can we?
ReplyDeleteWonderful post , I like the "Voice" concept,
ReplyDeleteno one has mentioned that in the blogs I have read. As a poetry writer I feel a little bit at a disadvantage as I never knew what went in to writing a novel, I am fast learning after reading the blogs I have read so far.
Enjoy your week-end;
Yvonne.
I like your invocation of persistence. A few others have talked about characters facing challenges and working against them, but you're absolutely right -- part of what makes that compelling is the character's not giving up, even as things get even more difficult.
ReplyDeleteI think persistence is key. That's a good point.
ReplyDeleteWonderful post....Your characters have to persevere...(sp? I spell terribly.)
ReplyDeletePersistance! You're the only one who has labeled it as such, and it's such great advice. Characters have to be strong and never give up.
ReplyDeleteThank you for participating! Your view is fantastic, great piece! Look forward to stalking you :)
Great post! Thank you for participating! We must really believe in our characters in order for them to shine through! Come and visit me!
ReplyDeleteGoals are huge. What do our characters want out of life? What drives them? Their motivation explains their every move. Great post.
ReplyDelete