Writer and Character
Characters are the heartbeat of any story. They are the vessels through which readers or viewers experience the narrative. As a writer, ensuring character consistency and emotional authenticity is crucial. Let's delve into some
practical approaches to achieving this, drawing from insights shared by a producer friend of mine.
Aligning Character Bios with On-Page Behavior
One common issue highlighted by my producer friend is the discrepancy between character bios in pitch bibles and their behavior in the story.
Characters must act and react in ways that align with their established backgrounds and traits.
This consistency is vital for credibility and relatability. As a writer, strive to ensure that your characters' actions on the page faithfully reflect their detailed bios.
Writer's Intention and Narrative Alignment
The writer's intention must resonate clearly through the characters. Every scene, every dialogue, every action should align with the broader narrative and character arcs. If you find yourself stuck during a rewrite, ask simple questions, like: What is this scene about? What motivates this particular behavior? Such inquiries can clarify your intentions and bring cohesiveness to your writing.
Focus on Characters, Not Just Themes
For new writers, the temptation to create theme-driven narratives can be strong. However, as my producer friend advises, effective storytelling is character-focused. Audiences connect with stories through characters, not abstract themes. Make your characters the lens through which the theme is explored and expressed.
The Importance of Emotional Buy-In
Emotional investment in a story is tied directly to the characters. It’s not just about making characters likable; it’s about making them empathetic. Readers and viewers should care about what happens to the characters, feel their struggles, and cheer for their triumphs. This emotional buy-in is what keeps the audience engaged and invested in the narrative.
Finding Authenticity in Characters
Authenticity in writing starts with the author. If you find authenticity in yourself, your understanding of human emotions and motivations, that authenticity will naturally seep into your characters. Write characters that are true to themselves, their backgrounds, and their motivations. Let them be flawed, let them be real.
Characters are the Rock of Storytelling
In conclusion, effective storytelling hinges on well-crafted, consistent characters. They are the medium through which the story is told and experienced. By focusing on character consistency, aligning intentions with actions, and ensuring emotional authenticity, you can create narratives that resonate deeply with your audience.
