Monday, February 15, 2010

Character Development


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

16 comments:

  1. Beautiful Simone. I loved reading about your inspiration and methodology!

    Karena

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  2. Here is something else you can do, Simone...

    Pick up the award that is waiting for you at my Objets D'art blog! :-)

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  3. This seems like hard work, I could never do it.

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  4. Common ground is a good basis - I use it as well :)

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  5. Interesting. 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 :(

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  6. Oh what a great way of doing it Simone, I have never even thought of things like that

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  7. It is true that the shared ground is critical, both in the story telling, and the real-life stories - no? Makes perfect sense to me.

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  8. I love characters who have shared common ground. The opposites attract has been so over done. Your stories sound wonderful.

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  9. Wow 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." (:

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  10. i know how you feel.
    even sometimes i do silly things when im not able to sketch...

    hugs to you, Simone.

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  11. I agree, you need the chemistry, but a good dose of sexual tension and some fun complications to overcome are other key ingredients.

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  12. You have a very methodical way of creating your characters. And they work out so perfectly. You're doing something right... :-)

    Nevine

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  13. I really admire writers - it seems so difficult to me. I love your approach to creating your characters.

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  14. You lot make for a brilliant sounding boards what with your positive feedback and supportive words.
    I'm so very glad to have each of you.
    My love, My care,
    Simone

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  15. Sounds like a good way to develop a character. Common ground, chemistry and proximity--you got it all.

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