Tell me the truth. You’re in love with at least one of your fictional characters, aren’t you?
As writers, I think we all have intense emotional relationships with our characters. Whether you would describe it as love, or hate, fascination, or even feeling that your characters are running the story and you’re just taking dictation, we’re all emotionally invested in our characters.
We know what our characters like and want. We know their tastes, and their whims. So, here’s a challenge for the writers out there:
Date your character!
We’re all busy trying to work our writing into our daily lives. But, putting some time aside to get in touch with your character can be a fun way to recharge your creative batteries, find inspiration, and end writer’s block.
Let’s look at a “What If…” scenario. What if your character traveled across time, space, death, and reality to spend the day with you. You, my friend, are taking them out on the town. Character not of your preferred gender? That’s fine! They’re now your best buddy!
- Determine your character’s choice of music.
- Pick your character’s favorite color. Wear it! If you have an outfit you know your character would want to wear or want to see a date in, that’s even better.
- Figure which restaurant would be your character’s favorite, and what dish they would order.
Play the music, get dressed, go out and order the meal, and ENJOY!
I realize this may seem silly to some of you. Try it anyway! Remember, you’ll only get out of it what you put in. If you put thought, planning, and emotion into this, it can be a fun way to kindle a new sense of excitement and enthusiasm for your character and your story.
So, go ahead! I won’t wait up!