Passionate thoughts about the world of writing and the Power of God
Why do you like certain characters and detest others? Is it easy to articulate? Sometimes it’s easier to describe “who” we don’t like and nail down the reasons for that than it is to tell why we like others. Can you do it?
Father, thank you for the unique ways your people write and create. Keep inspiring them, Lord. This fallen world needs your insights infused through those written words. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
I am fascinated by how different characters appeal to different people. I think of TV shows as an example. I have a friend who tends to be attracted to the motormouth, recklessly-act -before-they-speak characters. (Okay, you have to be ahem older to recognize these examples) such as Joe Cartwright of Bonanza, John Gage of Emergency.
I on the other hand prefer the strong and (relatively) silent type. Head smart, don’t talk as much but when they do you can’t count on it being important, do not hesitate to act, but don’t arrive at the action the way the reckless character does (ie. Adam Cartwright of Bonanza, Roy DeSoto of Emergency, Mr. Spock of Star Trek).
Expanding that to characters in books, my favorite characters have very deep convictions–convictions that cause them to risk life and limb if necessary. They ponder the deep questions I might ponder, or wrestle with deep thoughts/fears/insecurities that I can identify with.
They are not whiny, wimpy handwringers. They don’t try to justify their bad actions because they had a bad childhood (I don’t care). They have a high code of conduct. In a sense, you might say my favorite characters are super-achievers, though what they are achieving varies according to the plot they’re in. They are usually decisive, whether making good choices or bad (and allowing for a little introspection and indecision).
Yet with all that defined, writing powerful characters is still hard work and it remains, to some extent, a mystery as to how to craft characters that grab you and don’t let go. I guess that’s why we keep writing manuscript after manuscript. We stay hungry for the perfect characters and stories. 😎
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It is fascinating how different characters appeal to different people. Like you, I prefer strong characters with a somewhat hidden vulnerability. I love Mitch Rapp. In Christian fiction I loved Michael Hosea of Redeeming Love.
I don’t mind some strong women characters if they’re not trying to be men. I can do fragile women if they recognize their weaknesses and aren’t whiny.
Yeah, it’s a fun challenge to write characters that strike the hearts of readers. One of my favorite parts about writing–and usually the impetus for a story. I see the character first.
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Into the Fire 
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