Hi Writers!
Every Friday we look closely at some excellent writing samples, analyze the techniques used, and then practice the skills through writing exercises. Finally, we turn to our own works-in-progress to see how what we just learned can enhance our writing.
We learn by doing. This class is all about doing.
Today’s class is all about using description to create vivid characters, paying particular attention to how a character’s perception of their setting paints a portrait of their psychology and personality.
“In displaying the psychology of your characters, minute particulars are essential. God save us from vague generalizations!”
― Anton Chekhov
We begin the class by looking at several fictional characters, then turn to two nonfiction examples—one from a memoir and one from a book about dog psychology—to understand how to create relevant characters out of real people.
I hope you join me today writers. There is no story without character. This might be the most useful class I’ve posted so far.
Let’s get to work!
:-) Danica
Books Referenced:
Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr
Five Little Indians by Michelle Good
Dog is Love by Clive DL Wynne
The Liars Club by Mary Karr
If you are one of the friends who is providing feedback while I develop the class…
Hello to you!
This has been the longest class yet, and to be honest it went on that long by accident.
Please let me know if you think it was too long. Or if you thought it was okay. Any thoughts, any thoughts at all would be appreciated. I really really REALLY value (and need!) your opinion.
xoxo Danica
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