Saturday, December 22, 2007

The flavor and characters of a novel

When I write I like to make my characters stand out with their own individuality. Now most authors use clothing to create a character's personality, and I do that too. I mean you wouldn't normally find a cowboy in a three-piece suit, or a hooker in an evening gown... then again, those types of twists can accentuate a particular twist in a plot, a commical situation, or even a deeper side of their 'normal' personality. Another thing that helps on some occassions are special pieces of jewelry. A deeply religious charcater might wear a special piece of religious jewelry. Maybe a shiny, and ornate cross, or a rugged, battered, simple piece of wrought iron. Depending on how it is used it can help to convey a deep personal message. A centuries old broach once the height of fashion, but now probably considered gaudy and antequated can make a character's strong connection to a past. So much can be done to help to bring out inner feelings, or ties to the past through simple little pieces placed strategically, and used wisely. Never overlook the little things, they give your writing flavor and character in every way.

No comments: