"Why do you care so much about accidentally leaving people out?" Because I've had friend groups where they were the planets and I was their Pluto.
I've had friend groups where our dynamics revolved around a Sun, with everyone vying for their attention if only to bask in their light for a mere moment. Where our thinly strung bonds collapsed the second our Sun left.
I've had friend groups where they bonded as Saturn's rings, finding solace in their shared shortcomings while isolating those more talented than them.
But I've also had friend groups where we bond as Neptune and Uranus—so similar we could be known as twins. Friend groups like Venus and Earth: so awfully different, yet it was those differences that kept us together.
And I would rather create a social system like the latter than the former.
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I miss being in love with words and beautiful prose. I miss typing out stories so enchanting they twist from ink to life, painting entire worlds with each stroke of the pen. I miss the thrill of the written word, the shiver of excitement that accompanied a newfound plot point.
But I fear that adoration has been eclipsed by a thirst for adulation—an ache for worldly acclaim that devours me whole, leaving behind the rotten carcass of a linguistic soul. A soul long buried and burned, laid to rest in the forgotten purgatory of withered pages and blotted ink.
For what good are words if they are never read? What good are stories if they are never told? What good is an author if they are never known?
How To Get Away With Murder Part Two: Writing Murder Mysteries
Murder mysteries are possibly one of the most complicated genres in fiction. Unlike other genres, authors need to create a very comprehensive backstory and worldbuilding that seamlessly ties into the present story while also creating intriguing characters that move the plot forward. As an author, you need to weave a complex web of clues, red herrings, and twists that ultimately lead to the big reveal, all while maintaining the integrity of the story.
Writing a good murder mystery is a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, you can create a gripping tale that keeps your readers on the edge of their seats. In this blog post, I'll be sharing my personal tips and insights on how to craft a compelling murder mystery that will leave your readers guessing until the very end.
Establish The Rules
Before you jump into your murder mystery it’s important to first set the scene and establish the ‘rules’ for your murder mystery. Your readers need to know what’s at stake here. Who was murdered? What is the most likely reason for their murder? Why is this particular character investigating their murder? You need to set up a clear foundation for your story.
Authors should also attempt to establish some semblance of a ‘stage’ for where the story will take place. If a character was murdered in their hotel room the hotel itself would likely be the ‘stage’ for your book’s murder mystery. This is where the detective will live and uncover clues until the end of the book.
Once you have a clear story and setting, move on to the characters and their role in the murder. Who is the investigative figure? Do they have to face any obstacles or follow certain rules while investigating? A great example of this would be Pip’s legal restrictions in A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder. Her position as a teenager significantly limited her investigative methods.
Plant The Seeds
Foreshadowing is the key to a good murder mystery. You need to start foreshadowing as soon as possible. As a writer, you need to plant subtle clues throughout your narrative that will keep your readers engaged and guessing.
But it's important to strike a balance between too much foreshadowing, which can make the plot predictable, and too little, which can make the conclusion feel like it came out of nowhere. Start foreshadowing early on in your story, and use a mix of subtle hints and more overt clues to keep your readers engaged without giving away the ending. Remember, the best foreshadowing is often invisible until the reader looks back on the story as a whole.
The Repitition Rule
Writers are often advised to repeat foreshadowing at least three times to help readers remember it. While this can be a helpful guideline, it's important to use your own judgment and avoid overdoing it. After all, if you repeat the same clues too often, you risk telegraphing the ending and ruining the suspense.
Instead, aim for a mix of subtle and overt foreshadowing that will keep readers engaged without giving too much away. Remember, the goal is to keep readers guessing until the very end.
Misdirect The Reader
In order to keep readers engaged and invested in the mystery, it's important to misdirect them from time to time. This means leading them down one path only to reveal that it was a dead end, or presenting a red herring that turns out to be unrelated to the actual crime.
There are many ways to accomplish this, from introducing false suspects and motives to using clever misdirection to steer readers away from the truth. One effective technique is to present conflicting evidence that suggests multiple possible solutions, forcing readers to constantly reassess their theories and stay engaged with the story.
However, it's important to avoid overdoing it or making the misdirection too obvious. You want readers to feel challenged and intrigued, not frustrated or misled. Ultimately, the goal is to keep readers guessing until the very end, when all is revealed and the pieces fall into place.
Add Depth To Your Characters
Developing your characters is crucial in murder mysteries. Not only does it make them more interesting and relatable, but it also helps to create a sense of connection and investment in the story. Make sure each character, even minor ones, have a distinct personality and backstory that ties into the plot.
When it comes to suspects, be sure to give each one a clear motive and opportunity to commit the crime. Think about their relationships with the victim and other characters, and how those dynamics could have played a role in the murder. Consider adding red herrings, false leads, and hidden secrets to make the investigation more complex and engaging.
Adding depth to your characters also helps create an emotional connection. This is especially important for the victim, you need to show your readers why they should care about this character’s death.
In A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder everyone’s illtreatment towards Sal’s family made the readers empathetic and had us rooting for Pip. It is important to establish some semblance of this empathy, or any other emotion such as anger, for your victims.
Use The Setting To Your Advantage
In a murder mystery, the setting can play a crucial role in providing clues and red herrings. Think about the location where the murder took place, and how it could provide hints about the killer's identity or motives. Perhaps there's a hidden object or a peculiar feature of the setting that only the killer would know about.
On the other hand, you can also use the setting to throw off the reader's suspicion, by including false clues or misdirections. For example, a character may have a motive to commit the murder in a particular location, but it turns out that they were actually somewhere else at the time. Overall, the setting is a powerful tool that can enhance the suspense and intrigue of a murder mystery, so make sure to use it to your advantage.
In addition to using the setting to provide clues and red herrings, it's also important to use it to create a mood and atmosphere that supports the murder mystery genre. Consider using a dark and moody setting, like a creepy old mansion or a foggy alleyway, to create tension and suspense.
You can also use the setting to create obstacles for your characters to overcome, like a hidden trapdoor. By making the setting a key part of your story, you can enhance the overall experience for your readers and make your murder mystery even more memorable.
Tie Up Loose Ends
Tying up loose ends is an essential part of writing a murder mystery. The reader expects a satisfying conclusion, and that can only happen when all loose ends are resolved. It's important to address any unanswered questions and resolve any plot holes.
Plot holes can be frustrating for readers and can ruin the entire reading experience. As a writer, it's your responsibility to make sure that there are no unresolved issues in your story. If there are any inconsistencies or plot holes, they need to be addressed and resolved.
To ensure that all loose ends are tied up, it's helpful to create a list of all the questions that need to be answered by the end of the story. Go through your manuscript multiple times, checking to make sure that each question is answered and that all loose ends are resolved.
By taking the time to tie up loose ends and address any plot holes, you can create a satisfying conclusion that will leave your readers feeling impressed with your attention to detail.
Practice Makes Perfect
To write a good murder mystery, you need to practice. Writing a successful mystery requires a skill and experience, and you can't expect to get it right the first time. Practice by reading other murder mysteries and taking note of how other authors structure their stories, how they use clues and foreshadowing, and how they misdirect the reader.
When you're writing your own murder mystery, don't be afraid to make mistakes. It's common for writers to encounter plot holes or inconsistencies in their story. The important thing is to recognize these mistakes and fix them as soon as possible. One way to do this is to get feedback from other writers or beta readers.
Remember, the more you practice, the better you'll become. Don't get discouraged if your first attempts aren't perfect. Keep writing, keep learning, and keep honing your craft. Eventually, you'll be able to write a murder mystery that will keep your readers guessing until the very end.
I hope this blog on how to get away with murder and write a murder mystery will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and follow my blog for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.
Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks?
Are you an author looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Or do you want to learn about how to get a literary agent, get published and properly market your book? Consider checking out the rest of Haya’s book blog where I post writing and marketing tools for authors every Monday and Thursday
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Crafting Authentic Child Characters: From Toddlers to Tweens
When it comes to writing captivating stories, it's not just about the plot or setting—it's about the characters that bring your narrative to life. Among those characters, child characters hold a special place.
Child characters, when done right, can hold a special place in your readers’ hearts. Think of YA series like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson- these books featured eleven and twelve year olds but their captivating tales and realistic characteristics drew us in. However, when done wrong, child characters can often ruin immersion and make readers feel annoyed due to their unrealistic representation.
In this guide, I’ve decided to explore the different pubescent age groups you often see in literature alongside tips to help you craft authentic child characters.
Understanding Toddler Characters
The toddler years—a phase characterized by tiny tots exploring the world with wide-eyed wonder. Writing toddler characters can be a delightful yet challenging task. These pint-sized adventurers, typically aged 1 to 3 years, are bundles of curiosity and emotion.
Characterizing Toddlers
Toddlers are known for their limited communication skills. Their vocabulary might consist of a few words or adorable gibberish. They often express themselves through gestures, facial expressions, and body language. Embracing their simplicity is key when bringing them to life on the page. Toddlers view the world with fresh eyes and uncomplicated hearts, finding joy in the little things like chasing butterflies or playing with bubbles.
Portraying Toddler Dialogue
When writing dialogue for toddler characters, simplicity is the name of the game. Toddler speech is basic and straightforward, often composed of short sentences or one-word responses. Capturing their enthusiasm is essential. Toddlers can be highly expressive, so use exclamation marks and enthusiastic language to convey their excitement. It's all about experiencing life's wonders, one small step at a time.
Writing toddler characters offers an opportunity to explore the world through innocent eyes and infuse your story with their unique brand of wonder and emotion.
Toddlers In Flashbacks
I would like to quickly mention that people don’t retain most of their memories from their toddler years, so if you’re trying to create a plot point surrounding a situation your character witnessed as a toddler it is important to consider whether a child that age would realistically even remember such an event.
Capturing the Essence of Children (4-7 years)
Children aged 4-7 are often brimming with creativity, curiosity, and a penchant for storytelling. Think back to times when you used to mix up shampoos in the bathroom to make ‘potions’ or create weirdly intricate plots for your ‘house’ games.
Characterizing Young Children
At this stage, children are developing rapidly, both physically and cognitively. They have an eagerness to understand the world around them, which often leads to a vivid imagination. Their capacity to believe in the extraordinary—whether it's magical creatures, talking animals, or hidden treasures—creates a wonderful opportunity for storytelling.
Young children are naturally curious and possess a boundless well of energy. Their interests can be diverse, ranging from dinosaurs and superheroes to fairies and space exploration. To capture their essence:
Highlighting Imaginative Play: Young children often engage in elaborate make-believe games. These imaginative adventures can be a goldmine for character development.
Embracing Curiosity: Encourage their inquisitiveness about the world. Show characters asking questions, seeking answers, and discovering new things.
Crafting Dialogues and Actions
When crafting dialogues and actions for children aged 4 to 7, it's important to consider their evolving language skills. Unlike toddlers, who may struggle with pronunciation, characters in this age group can typically speak properly. This means they won't say "sowwy" for "sorry" or "wuv" for "love."
Embracing Storytelling: Children this age love to narrate their adventures and dreams. Use storytelling within your story to reflect their imaginative nature.
Curious Questioning: Show characters exploring, asking "why," and expressing wide-eyed wonder. Utilize their questions and observations to drive the plot or reveal new information.
Navigating the World of Pre-Teens (8-12 years)
Many captivating young adult series begin with characters in their pre-teen years, allowing readers to witness their growth and development throughout the books. This is because writing characters in this age group, typically aged 8 to 12, offers a unique exploration of budding independence and the influence of peer relationships.
Your characters are no longer seen as little kids but at the same time don’t have the freedom associated with adolescence.
Characterizing Pre-Teens
Pre-teen characters are in the process of discovering their identity. They're developing a sense of self and often begin to assert their independence from parents or caregivers. While their childlike innocence remains, they're also exposed to a wider range of experiences and emotions.
These characters may show an increased interest in friendships, hobbies, and their expanding world. To capture the essence of pre-teens:
Embrace Growing Independence: Pre-teens may want more autonomy in decision-making. Explore their budding independence as they take small steps toward self-reliance.
Peer Relationships: Friendships become more critical during this stage. Show characters navigating the challenges and joys of making and maintaining friendships.
Crafting Dialogues and Actions
When crafting dialogues and actions for pre-teen characters, consider their evolving perspectives and emerging voices:
Balancing Childlike Wonder: While they're growing up, pre-teens still retain their childlike curiosity and wonder. Don't shy away from showcasing these traits.
Beginning Adolescence: Pre-teens may start experiencing pre-adolescent changes. This could include minor mood swings, increased self-awareness, and curiosity about the world's complexities.
Tweens: Balancing Innocence and Growing Up (13-14 years)
As we move forward into the world of tweens, we encounter characters aged 13 to 14—the age where innocence meets the beginnings of adolescence. Crafting characters in this age group offers an exciting opportunity to explore the challenges and interests of this transitional stage.
Characterizing Tweens
Tweens are on the cusp of adolescence, and their experiences reflect this delicate balance between childhood and growing up. They're often navigating the complexities of middle school, peer dynamics, and a burgeoning sense of self.
Tweens may still possess a childlike wonder, but they're increasingly exposed to more mature themes. To capture the essence of tweens:
Emerging Independence: Tweens may desire more autonomy and may challenge authority figures as they assert their individuality.
Peer Influence: Friendships take on even greater significance. Characters in this age group may grapple with peer pressure and the need to fit in.
Crafting Dialogues and Actions
When crafting dialogues and actions for tween characters, consider the delicate balance they strike:
Retaining Childlike Charm: Tweens often have endearing quirks and moments of innocence. Don't lose sight of these traits.
Exploring Pre-Adolescence: As they begin to encounter the complexities of growing up, characters in this age group may exhibit curiosity about more mature topics while still experiencing occasional moments of youthful naivety.
Writing tween characters allows for a captivating exploration of the liminal space between childhood and adolescence, where they teeter on the brink of exciting self-discovery.
Creating Memorable Child Characters
Now that we've explored the unique characteristics and development stages of child characters, it's time to discuss how to craft memorable and well-rounded child characters, regardless of their age.
Developing Distinct Personalities
Each child character you create should have a distinct personality, just like any adult character. Think about their likes, dislikes, fears, and dreams. Are they adventurous, introverted, mischievous, or kind-hearted? Consider how their personalities align with their age group.
Character Growth and Development
While child characters start with a certain set of traits, they should also experience growth and change throughout your story. Whether it's learning important life lessons or maturing in their outlook, character arcs are just as relevant for children as they are for adults.
Examples from Literature
To better understand how to create memorable child characters, let's turn to some examples from literature. Take, for instance, Scout Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. She's curious, brave, and compassionate, making her a beloved child character who evolves throughout the novel.
Or consider the character of Matilda from Roald Dahl's "Matilda." She's an exceptionally bright and resilient child character who learns to harness her unique abilities.
These examples show how well-crafted child characters can leave a lasting impact on readers.
Crafting Authentic Child Dialogue: Dos and Don'ts
Writing dialogue for child characters can be both challenging and rewarding. It's important to strike the right balance between authenticity and readability. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
Dos:
Capture Their Perspective: Remember that children see the world differently. Describe events and surroundings through their eyes. Use simple language when necessary to reflect their understanding.
Embrace Authenticity: Children may use slang, colloquialisms, or unique phrases. Incorporate these sparingly to add authenticity to their speech.
Show Growth: As your child characters mature throughout the story, their speech should evolve too. Gradually introduce more complex vocabulary and sentence structures.
Reflect Emotions: Children express emotions openly. Use dialogue to convey their feelings, whether it's unbridled enthusiasm, innocent curiosity, or the occasional temper tantrum.
Don'ts:
Avoid Stereotypes: While children may display certain traits based on their age, avoid falling into clichéd stereotypes. Each child is unique, so give your characters depth beyond typical traits.
Steer Clear of Exaggeration: While child characters can be quirky and funny, be cautious not to make their dialogue overly cute or exaggerated, which can become grating to readers.
Limit 'Baby Talk': Especially for older child characters, avoid excessive use of baby talk or mispronunciations unless it's essential to the story.
Don't Oversimplify: While simplicity is key, don't underestimate your young readers. Children can understand complex emotions and ideas if presented in a relatable way.
By keeping these dos and don'ts in mind, you can create dialogue that feels authentic, engages young readers, and adds depth to your child characters.
Crafting authentic child characters can be a fulfilling journey for writers. Whether you're depicting the innocence of a toddler, the imaginative spirit of a young child, the evolving personality of a tween, or the budding independence of a pre-teen, these characters can add depth and heart to your stories.
Remember, each child character is a unique individual with their own quirks, dreams, and potential for growth.
I hope this blog on Crafting Authentic Child Characters: From Toddlers to Tweens will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and follow my blog for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.
Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks?
Are you an author looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Or do you want to learn about how to get a literary agent, get published and properly market your book? Consider checking out the rest of Haya’s book blog where I post writing and publishing tips for authors every Monday and Thursday! And don’t forget to head over to my TikTok and Instagram profiles @hayatheauthor to learn more about my WIP and writing journey!
I was wondering if you have any advice for making immortal characters?
I'm making one for a story and kinda stuck on a few things
Crafting immortal characters presents a unique set of challenges for writers. Visualizing the personality and lifestyle of someone who has lived for centuries can be a daunting task. I personally haven't written many immortal characters, but here is my simple guide to writing immortal characters.
Understanding Immortality
Immortality is a concept that has captivated storytellers for centuries. Before diving into the intricacies of writing immortal characters, it's crucial to establish a clear understanding of what immortality means in your story's context. Consider whether your characters are ageless, impervious to injury, or possess an endless lifespan. This foundational knowledge will shape how you approach their characterization and the challenges they might face.
The Appeal of Immortality
Deciding whether to make a character immortal is a significant creative choice. Immortality can add depth and intrigue to a character, but it's essential to weigh the storytelling benefits against potential drawbacks. Consider the thematic elements of your narrative—does immortality serve the central themes of your story? If your story explores the passage of time, loss, or the human condition, immortality can be a compelling tool.
Additionally, immortality allows for the exploration of different time periods, historical events, and changing societal norms. It can provide a unique perspective on human existence and create opportunities for character growth over an extended timeline. However, it's crucial to strike a balance, ensuring that immortality enhances the narrative rather than overshadowing it.
Types of Immortality
When delving into the concept of immortality, it's important to explore the various types that can shape the nature of your immortal character. Immortality isn't a one-size-fits-all concept, and different narratives employ diverse approaches to convey this enduring existence. Here are several types of immortality to consider:
Biological Immortality:
Biological immortality refers to a character's ability to cease aging and remain in a perpetual state of physical youth. This form of immortality doesn't prevent death from external factors like injury or disease but ensures the character won't die from old age.
Regenerative Immortality:
Characters with regenerative immortality possess the ability to recover rapidly from injuries, regardless of their severity. This type of immortality allows for survival in situations that would be fatal to others.
Resurrection Immortality:
Resurrection immortality involves characters who can come back to life after death. This form of immortality often comes with certain conditions or limitations, such as a specific time frame for resurrection or the need for an external force.
Cursed Immortality:
Some immortals might be cursed to live forever as a consequence of their actions or a supernatural event. This form of immortality can add complexity to a character's journey, as they grapple with the burden of eternal life.
Spiritual Immortality:
Spiritual immortality separates the character's consciousness from their physical body. Even if their body is destroyed, their consciousness persists, potentially allowing them to inhabit new vessels or even exist as ethereal entities.
Conditional Immortality:
Characters with conditional immortality can only be killed under specific circumstances or by specific means. This form of immortality often adds tension to the narrative, as characters may need to discover and exploit these weaknesses.
Choosing the type of immortality for your character depends on the themes and dynamics you want to explore in your story. Each type brings its own set of challenges and opportunities for character development.
The Challenges of Writing Immortal Protagonists
Crafting an immortal protagonist comes with its own set of challenges, demanding careful consideration to avoid narrative pitfalls. While the allure of an eternal character might be tempting, it's essential to navigate potential obstacles effectively. Here are some challenges you might encounter when writing immortal protagonists:
Stagnation and Boredom:
Immortality could lead to stagnation, with characters becoming disinterested or bored over centuries. Finding meaningful pursuits or addressing existential ennui becomes a crucial aspect of immortal character development.
Loss and Grief:
Immortal characters often witness the passing of loved ones, raising questions about coping with eternal grief. Exploring the emotional toll of enduring relationships and inevitable farewells adds depth to their narrative.
Maintaining Tension:
The fear of death is a powerful narrative tool, and writing an immortal character requires innovative ways to sustain tension. Introducing other forms of vulnerability or consequences for their actions becomes essential to keep the stakes high.
Relatability to Mortals:
Immortal characters might struggle to relate to mortal experiences, making it challenging for readers to empathize. Balancing their extraordinary existence with relatable elements ensures readers can connect with the character on a human level.
Memory Overload:
With centuries of experiences, memory overload is a realistic concern. Immortal characters may grapple with the weight of accumulated memories, potentially leading to mental strain or identity crises.
Moral Evolution:
Immortal characters must undergo moral and emotional evolution over time. Addressing how their perspectives change across centuries and adapting to evolving societal norms adds complexity to their character arc.
Navigating these challenges requires a delicate blend of creativity and empathy. Immortal protagonists offer unique storytelling opportunities, but their narratives demand careful handling to resonate with readers and maintain a compelling plot.
Character Development and Immortality
Creating a dynamic and relatable immortal character hinges on their growth and transformation over time. While immortality offers longevity, it shouldn't equate to static personalities. Consider the following aspects to ensure your immortal protagonist undergoes meaningful character development:
Learning from Experiences:
Immortality grants the opportunity for characters to accumulate diverse experiences. Showcase how these encounters shape their beliefs, values, and perspectives. Immortal characters should evolve emotionally and intellectually, drawing wisdom from their extensive life.
Adapting to Change:
Explore how your immortal character adapts to societal and technological changes. Their ability to navigate evolving landscapes, both physically and metaphorically, provides opportunities for character development and engaging storytelling.
Embracing Vulnerability:
Despite immortality, vulnerability adds depth to characters. Introduce challenges or weaknesses that resonate with readers, fostering empathy and connection. Immortal characters should grapple with their humanity, despite their extended lifespans.
Exploring Relationships:
Immortal characters can form unique connections across different time periods. Delve into the complexities of their relationships with mortals and fellow immortals. Address the impact of enduring friendships, love, and loss on their emotional landscape.
Personal Growth Arcs:
Craft personal growth arcs that transcend centuries. Immortal characters should confront internal conflicts, flaws, and insecurities, showcasing a relatable journey of self-discovery despite their extraordinary lifespan.
Facing Consequences:
Immortality doesn't exempt characters from facing consequences. Establish a sense of accountability for their actions, ensuring that decisions made centuries ago still reverberate in their present. Consequences provide narrative tension and drive character development.
Remember, immortality shouldn't hinder character growth; rather, it should enhance the depth and complexity of their journey. Immortal protagonists can offer readers a compelling exploration of humanity, time, and the enduring quest for self-discovery.
Physical Changes and Lack Thereof
When crafting immortal characters, the portrayal of physical aspects becomes a crucial element. Consider the following factors to effectively convey the unique nature of immortality in your writing:
Ageless Appearance:
Immortal characters often maintain a youthful or ageless appearance, defying the natural aging process. Describe their timeless beauty or the perpetual state of their physical prime, emphasizing the contrast with mortal characters.
Scars and Battle Marks:
Showcase battle scars and marks as enduring symbols of an immortal's longevity. These physical remnants tell stories of epic encounters, providing a visual narrative of the character's journey through time.
Adaptive Evolution:
Explore the idea of adaptive evolution in immortal beings. Depending on your world-building, immortals might possess the ability to adapt physically over time, gaining new attributes or even altering their physical form in response to challenges.
Stasis and Stagnation:
Delve into the potential downsides of immortality, such as the risk of stagnation. Immortal characters might experience periods of stasis, where their physical appearance and abilities plateau, presenting a unique challenge to their personal growth.
Temporal Reflections:
Use reflections, whether in mirrors or bodies of water, to emphasize the temporal disparity between immortals and mortals. Immortal characters may see reflections that carry the weight of centuries, offering poignant moments of self-reflection.
Symbolic Transformations:
Employ symbolic physical transformations to mirror an immortal's internal evolution. For instance, a character's eyes could change color or exhibit unique features during pivotal moments, signaling shifts in their emotional or psychological state.
Effectively portraying physical changes, or the lack thereof, allows readers to immerse themselves in the intricacies of your immortal characters. Balancing the timeless allure with nuanced details enhances the richness of their existence within your narrative.
Psychological Realities of Immortality
Navigating the psychological landscape of immortal characters adds depth and complexity to your storytelling. Consider the following aspects to capture the essence of their enduring minds:
Temporal Perspective:
Immortals view time through a vastly different lens, witnessing the ebb and flow of history. Delve into their temporal perspective, exploring how centuries of existence shape their perception of fleeting mortal lives.
Accumulated Wisdom:
Immortality often comes with accumulated knowledge and wisdom. Showcase the breadth of their insights, portraying them as repositories of experiences and lessons learned throughout the ages.
Isolation and Relationships:
Explore the theme of isolation that can accompany immortality. Immortal characters might struggle with forming lasting connections with mortals due to the inevitable heartbreak of witnessing their transient lives.
Personal Evolution:
Detail the personal evolution of immortal characters over time. Just as their physical forms may change, their personalities and beliefs can undergo profound transformations, allowing readers to witness the intricate interplay of experience and growth.
Existential Questions:
Immortals grapple with existential questions about the meaning of their eternal existence. Address their struggles with purpose and identity, weaving a narrative that reflects the timeless quest for self-discovery.
Emotional Resilience:
Immortals may develop emotional resilience, adapting to loss and upheaval with a perspective that transcends the immediate pain. Explore how they cope with emotional challenges and form coping mechanisms unique to their enduring nature.
Moral Dilemmas:
Immortality often raises moral dilemmas. Consider how an immortal character confronts questions of ethics, morality, and the consequences of actions that reverberate across centuries.
Crafting the psychological realities of immortality invites readers to delve into the intricate minds of your characters. By seamlessly integrating these aspects into your narrative, you create a compelling exploration of the human—or rather, immortal—experience.
Physical Manifestations of Immortality
The physical aspects of immortal characters can significantly shape their presence in your story. Paying attention to these details enhances the believability of their immortal nature:
Ageless Appearance:
Immortals often maintain a perpetual youthful appearance. Describe how they defy the aging process, showcasing flawless skin, unchanged features, and an eternal vibrancy that sets them apart from mortals.
Healing Abilities:
Explore the regenerative capabilities that come with immortality. Immortal characters can heal from injuries that would be fatal to mortals, adding an element of resilience and invincibility to their physicality.
Resilience to Disease:
Immortality typically grants immunity to diseases and ailments. Consider how your characters navigate a world where mortal afflictions hold no power over them, emphasizing the contrast between their enduring health and the vulnerabilities of mortals.
Enhanced Strength and Agility:
Immortals often possess heightened physical abilities. Showcase their extraordinary strength, agility, and reflexes, allowing them to excel in physical feats beyond the capabilities of ordinary humans.
Immortal Scars and Markings:
Delve into the concept of immortal scars—wounds that may linger as reminders of past battles or significant events. These scars, unlike mortal wounds, serve as enduring symbols of an immortal's journey through time.
Adaptation to Environment:
Consider how immortals adapt to various environments and climates. Whether it's extreme temperatures or challenging terrains, their bodies may possess a remarkable ability to endure conditions that would challenge mortal limits.
Shape-Shifting or Transformation:
Some immortals possess the ability to change their physical form. Explore the concept of shape-shifting or transformation, allowing your characters to adopt different appearances throughout their eternal existence.
Inherent Magical Traits:
Immortality is often intertwined with magical elements. Highlight any inherent magical traits your characters may possess, such as the ability to manipulate elements, control forces of nature, or tap into mystical energies.
By intricately weaving these physical manifestations into your narrative, you create a vivid portrayal of immortal characters that captivates readers and adds a layer of enchantment to your storytelling.
I hope this blog on How To Write Immortal Characters will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and follow my blog for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.
Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks?
Are you an author looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Or do you want to learn about how to get a literary agent, get published and properly market your book? Consider checking out the rest of Haya’s book blog where I post writing and publishing tips for authors every Monday and Thursday! And don’t forget to head over to my TikTok and Instagram profiles @hayatheauthor to learn more about my WIP and writing journey!
How To Write POC Characters Without Seeming Racist
Writing about a community you don’t come from can be hard. A lack of research or basic knowledge can often lead authors to wrongly represent or describe characters who belong to that community. But this is a simple mistake that can be reversed with a little bit of guidance and an open mind.
If you’re a non-POC writer looking to accurately describe your POC characters without coming off as racist, here are some tips for you! From a POC YA fantasy author.
Would You Describe Your Character Similarly If They Were White?
This tip is honestly a very basic technique that is often overlooked when discussing ways to combat racist descriptions in literature. The tip is simple: if you wouldn’t describe your character that way if they were non-POC, then don’t use that description.
Think of every time you described your POC character’s physical features. Did you ever feel like you ‘had to’ write a certain description because your character was POC? Are your descriptions of your non-POC characters drastically different from that of your POC ones?
If your answer to these questions were yes, then it’s very likely that your POC descriptions will come off as racist to your readers.
I would recommend crawling through your manuscript and comparing the way you describe your non-POC characters to the way you describe your POC ones. More specifically, compare how you described your characters the first time they were mentioned in the book. The goal is to compare the two descriptions and figure out any differences between them, why these differences are present, and whether they exist due to a racist eye.
Word Choice
An author’s word choice when describing their POC character is often a direct reflection of their perception of that community. When writing a POC character, it is important to consider what your character really looks like. This goes beyond their hair type or skin colour.
Take a look to analyse your character’s physical attributes and come up with a list of words you could use when describing them. This can be beneficial in the long run when you need a quick adjective to describe said character during a scene.
How To Describe POC Features
Non-POC authors often don’t realise how discriminatory or redundant their descriptions of POC characters can be. They tend to water down their character’s features to the colour or visual depiction of it rather than actually describing those features.
Saying your character has tan skin is an effective way to describe your character’s appearance, but it can come off as a cop-out when compared to detailed descriptions of your non-POC character’s fair skin dotted with light freckles. An easy way to better your descriptions is by using creative descriptions.
Here is an expert from my WIP, The Traitor’s Throne, that describes one of the many POC characters:
Her grandmother’s briefings of the royal guards failed her when Amaya needed them most, for try as she might, Amaya couldn’t recall anything to help her recognise the green-eyed man with a face like an acorn, both in shape and shade.
I could have easily said he was tan skinned and left it at that, but the acorn analogy seems more alluring and helps the reader gain insight on the character’s features instead of their skin tone.
When using creative descriptions, consider using words and phrases that tie into your character’s personality. A scary antagonist would have long black hair dark as night that curtained their pale face, a cute child could have golden skin that glowed under the sunlight.
Refrain From Using The Word Exotic!
The word exotic is possibly the worst thing you could use when describing a POC character.
The Oxford dictionary describes exotic as ‘from or in another country, especially a tropical one; seeming exciting and unusual because it is connected with foreign countries’. Thus, this adjective would make no sense if your book takes place in a POC setting or is written from another POC’s perspective.
Exotic is also often overused by non-POC writers and is seen as a lazy copout by many.
Rather than describing your character as exotic, consider actually describing their features. Ask yourself why you chose to use exotic in the first place. Maybe they have wild curls unlike anything your character has ever seen, or their fair skin is so different from the tan skin your character is used to.
Narrow down the reasons and then take the time to redescribe your character. This will not only help you ensure you don’t come off as racist but will also paint a clear picture for your readers.
Are you facing a hard time trying to pick the right words for your POC characters? Consider checking out this blog by writing with colour on Tumblr that details how to describe skin colour. Their tips can also be applied to other aspects of your character’s features.
Avoid The Stereotypes
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve sighed in annoyance every time I come across a tan-skinned South Indian character in literature who is kind and smart and has long dark brown hair.
Yes, there are many Indians who look like that. But India is a diverse country known for its various cultures and people, and it’s unfortunate to see authors completely overlook the rest of our country in an effort to pertain to their stereotypes.
The same can be said for many other POCs, such as East Asians who are always described as thin and dainty with sharp features and minds, or Middle Easterns and Africans who are extroverted, excitable and often portrayed as violent.
Non-POCs often find racial stereotypes amusing, but they are really just frustrating and show us how uninformed non-POCs are when it comes to our cultures and countries.
The next time you draft up your POC character’s appearance and personality, take the time to consider why you chose to make them this way, and whether their personality is really a reflection of your limited insight into that character’s culture.
Don’t Over Describe
It’s important to paint a clear description of your characters, but it’s just as important to remember when your descriptions are redundant. Overdescribing POC characters is the biggest mistake you can make when writing a POC. As mentioned at the start of this blog, it’s important to consider whether or not you would describe your character that way if they were non-POC.
For example, if I were writing a fight scene between the antagonist and an African character, I would likely use lines like ‘their dreadlocks slapped against the back of their neck as they raced away from the villain’ or ‘the blood staining their hands ran down their russet arms as they tightened their grip around the antagonist’s neck’.
These are simple yet effective descriptions that help paint a clear image of the character without ruining the reader’s immersion.
When writing POC characters, it’s important to remember that they are just like every other character you are writing. They are human. And their race or physical attributes shouldn’t change the way you describe your characters.
I hope this blog on how to write POC characters without seeming racist will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and subscribe to my email list for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.
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