What I do when I'm not able to write.
Right. So far I've always know who the main character is before I put pen to paper and then I come to who the other is based on the sort of person I feel would fit well with him or her. To get to this, I’ve used astrology charts, social compatibility and every available socio-psychological mating data in the book.
If he’s a fixed sign then I make her mutable and I never make it so they are from two different worlds for I think it’s imperative for them to relate with one another. I’ll give you an example: in my novelette Westmorland for Harlequin, the hero marries his mother’s companion and though they may sound worlds apart, I made it so they share a decade long friendship.
Common ground, chemistry and proximity. Those are my characters' foundation. I’ve tried writing those opposites attract stories but they always read as rubbish in my hands so I leave them to those more able.
Happy Monday my angels,
Simone
Beautiful Simone. I loved reading about your inspiration and methodology!
ReplyDeleteKarena
Here is something else you can do, Simone...
ReplyDeletePick up the award that is waiting for you at my Objets D'art blog! :-)
This seems like hard work, I could never do it.
ReplyDeleteCommon ground is a good basis - I use it as well :)
ReplyDeleteInteresting. I've used astrological charts, too. I had a book about birthdays. It told you everything about a person's tendencies based on what day they were born on. Unfortunately, I was kind and let a friend borrow it. Haven't seen it since :(
ReplyDeleteOh what a great way of doing it Simone, I have never even thought of things like that
ReplyDeleteIt is true that the shared ground is critical, both in the story telling, and the real-life stories - no? Makes perfect sense to me.
ReplyDeleteI love characters who have shared common ground. The opposites attract has been so over done. Your stories sound wonderful.
ReplyDeleteWow Simone! You take character compatibility to a new level. Using astrological charts is such an original idea. Good luck on your story. Maybe this is the "one." (:
ReplyDeletei know how you feel.
ReplyDeleteeven sometimes i do silly things when im not able to sketch...
hugs to you, Simone.
I agree, you need the chemistry, but a good dose of sexual tension and some fun complications to overcome are other key ingredients.
ReplyDeleteYou have a very methodical way of creating your characters. And they work out so perfectly. You're doing something right... :-)
ReplyDeleteNevine
I really admire writers - it seems so difficult to me. I love your approach to creating your characters.
ReplyDeleteyou beautifully master your characters.
ReplyDeleteYou lot make for a brilliant sounding boards what with your positive feedback and supportive words.
ReplyDeleteI'm so very glad to have each of you.
My love, My care,
Simone
Sounds like a good way to develop a character. Common ground, chemistry and proximity--you got it all.
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