 | Characterization is an essential tool for crafting compelling fiction. In his book The Art of Character, David Corbett provides a comprehensive exploration of how to create complex and captivating fictional characters. Each chapter provides exercises, most of which encourage the writer to develop the character through scenes (rather than lists). Favorite quotes: |
- The craft of characterization is an attempt to honor and explore the truth of human nature through the art of storytelling.
- Developing a character with genuine depth…needs to be forged in scenes, the better to employ your intuition rather than your intellect.
- Characterization requires a constant back-and-forth between the exterior events of the story and the interior life of the character.
- Characters want something, and the deeper the want, the more compelling the drama.
- Complications, richness, and texture come from the conflicts encountered fulfilling a desire.
- There is perhaps no more devastating scene than one in which the character risks vulnerability only to earn exactly what she feared: rejection, disgust, betrayal, contempt.
- In trying to determine the best way for your character to show her spine, return to the underlying fear and write from there.
- The most compelling drama is always good versus good
- Dialog must be rooted in character.
I was fortunate to take a class from David at LitReactor, drawing from his book. He was an insightful teacher. I highly recommend the book (and classes) to sharpen characterization skills.
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