I always leave a little tea in my cup. I like to say
it’s just my optimism—my way of seeing every glass half full. My husband says
it’s just one of my many quirks.
If you asked my husband, he would tell you several
other idiosyncrasies about me. The way my voice inflection and accent changes
when I speak to different people. The way I choose particular utensils for each
entrée (macaroni and cheese tastes ten times better if eaten from a bowl). The
way I talk with my hands when I’m particularly nervous. These peculiarities
define me to some extent, or make me unique anyway. Can you relate to any of
these quirks?
As I work through edits of my first novel, I’ve
realized (with the help of contest judges and critique partners), that my
characters need more depth or distinctiveness. In fact, one of my critique
partners pointed out that all of the characters sounded the same, and as I’ve
read through the work again, I’ve come to agree with this observation. I
believe my characters need specific quirks and distinct voices in order to make
them likable and memorable. I'm beginning to realize the strength of my plot is directly related to the strength of my characters.
In James Scott Bell’s book, Plot and Structure, he says, “…the more the reader can identify
with the Lead, the greater the intensity of the plot experience…identification
means, simply, that the Lead [character] is like us.” He also says, “…the
stronger the characters, the better your plot.”
When I recall my favorite novels, I immediately
think about the characters. What would Anne
of Green Gables be without the fiery, red-headed Ann with an e? There would
certainly be less conflict or plot. What if Elizabeth Bennett lacked her wit
and vivacity and did everything according to convention? She would be no match
for Mr. Darcy and there would be no Pride
and Prejudice. Or what if Charles Dickens’ character David Copperfield
lacked his peculiar gift of observation? We would never find out if he was the
hero of his own story. I’m drawn to these delightful novels because of the
unique characters that drive the plot, and I find their quirks endearing or likable.
So, I’m recreating my characters these days. I’m giving
them depth and dimension by adding quirks, likable traits, and distinct
voices, and in so doing, I hope I can create three dimensional people who strengthen
the plot and remain with readers long after the last page.
What
is one of your lead character’s quirks in your current WIP? What is one of your
quirks? Who is one of your favorite novel characters? How does his/her character drive the plot?
