Character Interviews

I've recently re-discovered a very useful tool for developing characters. For me, thoughts and ideas flow like the proverbial river when I sit down and actually interview my characters.

It's not a stiff, formal interview - rather it's an intimate look into their lives. I ask questions, they respond as though I were a lifelong friend. They tend to tell me exactly how it is and thus, I can translate that into my story.

Some people probably think interviewing an imaginary person is quite strange. Non-writers would probably think me crazy, but you have to be a little bid addled in order to write.

I'm discovering that I have a better grasp on my characters, my plot, and my GMC this time around. My first novel was full of mistakes (which I think I fixed), but it was also a learning process - an invaluable one.

But if you're having trouble with a character and can't get him to "open up" to you, try an interview. You can do a search online and find "character interview questions" that just might jumpstart your plot and your story.

In Other News...

I took a two-hour nap last night and thus, didn't get to bed until late. I'm tired today and trying to keep my eyes open. It doesn't help that I have a ton to do today at work and do not have time to be tired.

I'm also looking into a new field called digital history. My university offers courses in it and I just might delve into it. Might be a new career.

Grandpa had a test that came back very good - so we're still in a bit of a waiting game on that score. But at least we're starting to get more answers than not now.

Tonight's goals: walk, eat a good supper, and finish reading a friend's manuscript. Oh yes - and the dreaded laundry.