Writing a novel part 3-Characters, Plots and Protagonists
Posted on July 23rd, 2008 by
Bookworm under Tutorials, Writing
Put the names of your characters on a piece of paper, one paper each. If you can use some 5×7 index cards. Begin planning the ”life story” of your characters. Who are they? How old are they? What are their likes and dislikes?
As they come to you, write them down on their respective papers. Just remember that every character needs to have a reason for being in the story.
Develop the stories plots and characters together. One important rule in creating a novel is to never separate your characters from the plot. They must do something that contributes to the plot and brings the story to its climax.
The characters have to be believable so that people reading your novel can feel that they could exist for real. Two important things about your characters that will draw them to the reader are their actions and purpose in life.
The protagonist of the story must be strong, because this is your stories major character. You will want your readers to care about the protagonist.
Todays Assignments
- Develop your characters, and cut out characters who do not belong in your story.
- Begin developing your plot along with your characters
- Develop your protagonist.
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July 25th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Hi Emma.
I saw your comment on the bookworm carnival. I thought I’d drop by and say hello. Drop by for a visit if you get the chance.
Bluestockings last blog post..Sci-Fi Friday: The Host
July 28th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
A very helpful post for first time writers. You have a very nice blog going on here. I would like to point out that minor characters don’t have to stay minor forever. If the protagonist realizes their potential as an ally, then the minor character can rise up to become a major character themselves. While this may not work in every kind of plot, this method may help out if you are writing a series.
Felix Noirs last blog post..Chapter 20 (Samson’s Perspective)
July 28th, 2008 at 2:17 pm
Didnt think of that, thank you Felix
Of course, this series is intended for one shot novels, I will also be writing a novel series, and serials tutorial sometime later.