How do you move beneath the surface of your characters to make them multi-dimensional and complex like real human beings?
Just like their real-life counterparts, it takes time to really know our characters. To access those complex interior layers.
So much of us remains hidden. And your characters are no different.
In this episode, we’re going 4 levels deep into your character.
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Episode at a glance:
[1:27] Even if your reader doesn’t relate to your character’s external situation, or their particular plot problems, they will relate in every way to their human dilemma.
You need to know your characters better than they know themselves.
And there are emotional layers your characters are constantly dealing with as they move through your plot.
[5:04] Level 1: Public Persona
This is the outside layer, your character’s personality and character traits. It’s what makes your character individual — your character’s public presentation. This level is usually out of alignment with one or more of the other character levels.
[10:02] Level 2: Social
Society, work cultures, environment, and role expectations can sometimes trap your character into conforming. That’s because survival is tied to him or her feeling accepted, validated, and appreciated. It’s what helps your character feel safely rooted in the world.
[11:51] Level 3: Familial
Here you’ll explore your character’s childhood upbringing. This is where most of your characters worldview, faulty beliefs about self and about how the world works originated. It’s also the source of your character’s fears, shame, and guilt.
[26:52] Level 4: Emotion
This is the real deal. It’s how your character honestly feels, whether she’s aware of her feelings or not. It’s the private self – the part that nobody else sees. The emotional level is the one your character has the least control over.
Link mentioned in this episode:
Episode 34: How To Write Backstory Without Boring Your Reader
Also Listen To:
Episode 94: 3 Simple Steps To Deeper Character Development
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