Video of a Novel: Day 40

A reminder about good characterization

Sometimes clarity in life leads to clarity on the page, and I'm feeling that this morning. Have you ever been stuck in your writing because of something going on in your “real” life? That’s how I’ve felt for the last few weeks, but that has been resolved, and I can feel the dam ready to open.

A few thoughts on that, as well as the key to good characterization. Ever wonder what makes characters seem like real people? Ever wonder what it is that has a character taking up space in your head the same way a historical figure might, or a friend, as if you have real memories of them? George Saunders has some words regarding that, and I’m talking about it briefly today. The magic word is specificity.

All of it is in the video today. Check it out below.