Have you ever
read a review where the reviewer points to *shallow* characters in the novel? I
know I have, and that’s why I feel it’s so important for writers to allot their
characters depth. So what is depth, and what do you mean by “dimensional”
characters?
It’s crucial
readers understand who the characters are; what makes them tic, and
particularly what the character’s identifying features are? I’m not necessarily
talking about physical features, but consistency and manner of speech, body
language and internal thoughts on how he/she views the world. A character is
not merely a gorgeous person with eyes of blue. He/she is a composition of many
events that has made him/her what they are today.
Their emotions
are multifaceted and often conflicting. They could come from troubled
backgrounds or perhaps were born with a silver spoon in their mouth. Whatever
the case, in order for readers to understand and relate to your characters,
writers need to delve into their history to make them likeable and real (or not
so likeable in the villain’s case). It’s also important the readers believe, and
can picture, the character existing before your story even began, thus the
history.
Shallow
characters (one-dimensional) have no real story, no identifying aspects to
their personality. They’re merely walk-ons in your novel and won’t make lasting
impressions. Readers will soon get bored with reading about someone they can’t
identify with or like, and will no doubt put the book down. This is the last
thing we want them to do.
Two-dimensional
characters might have one identifying trait or a smidgen of history, but why
stop there? Write your characters as if they are a person you’d love to know,
in fact, you’re so fascinated by their thoughts about life, their opinions, you
long to know everything about them, including their past.
If your hero or
heroine lacks depth or dimension, reviewers/readers might refer to them as
*cardboard characters* another term you want to avoid at all costs. This means
they’re typical ordinary, forgettable people or par for the course in motives
and goals. While writing about them, you might have hinted about a like or
dislike they possess, but there you stopped, leaving the thought underdeveloped
without explaining why they dislike the color purple or why the adore women in
hats. What’s the history behind their abhorrence, fetish or passion?
One of the
great things about writing is that you, the author, have control over the
portrayals of your characters. Make them bigger than life; exaggerate their
habits, annoyances, likes and dislikes. Make every aspect about them memorable
in the reader’s mind.
You won’t
regret giving a little dimension to your characters’ personalities.
Here’s an
excellent article from The Writing Tools Blogspot about Writing Character Bios
for your stories. Why don’t you try it? http://thewritingtools.blogspot.com/2009/07/character-bios-why-and-how.html
Happy writing
and reading! Keta
* * *
About Keta
Check out Keta's latest release, a sweet historical romance
SKY DREAMS, Book 3 in the Sky Series. (First book, Sky Tinted Water, Second book, Sky Dance.
Keta
Diablo lives in the Midwest part of the United States on six acres of woodland.
When she isn't writing or gardening she loves to commune with nature. A
lifelong animal lover, she also devotes her time and support to the local
animal shelters.
Keta's
a bestselling Amazon author who writes in several genres, including western romance,
historical romance, paranormal romance and the occasional gay romance. Her
books have received numerous Top Pick, Book of the Month and Recommended Read
reviews.
You can find her on the net at the following places:Author Home
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