I recently gave a writing workshop where we discussed character development. I came prepped with “get to know your character” activities. We became voyeurs as we snooped in MCs’ purses, dressers, cars, and shopping carts. I had students create playlists for their characters as well. In the end, those who were stuck with their stories said these activities helped them. I was glad, but I have to confess something. I don’t use these strategies.

Don’t get me wrong. I think these techniques are useful, and plenty of authors swear by them. In fact, most authors I know can’t begin their novels unless they know their characters inside and out. I’ve tried doing it this way, but I always felt like I was forcing a personality onto an MC that she didn’t yet have. To me, the process is like a relationship; I need to get to know my characters gradually.

When I was part of the dating scene, getting to know the guy was exciting. On each date, I found out more and that was part of the fun. How boring would it have been to have known EVERYTHING about him on that first date? How likely would there have been a second or third date if we knew each other’s quirks from the first second? When you get to know each other, quirks become endearing. Before you do, they can simply be weird.

I like getting to know my characters as I go along. Often I have one picture of them and they prove me wrong. I like surprises, am happy that I don’t know everything that’s in my MC’s glove compartment or her boyfriend’s locker. Like my best relationships, my best characters evolve in their own time.

Related posts:

1. Connect with Margie Gelbwasser: Keeping Writing Fun
2. Connect with Margie Gelbwasser: Excuses
3. Connect With Margie Gelbwasser: Writing Outside The Box
4. INCONVENIENT by Margie Gelbwasser
5. Connect with Jennifer R. Hubbard: Choices