Characters.
The defining element to any story. Without good characters, even the best woven plot-line will fall flatter than a soufflé . If one is to create a good character, one must have access to certain tools. I'm now going to share some of my secrets to creating a good character.
1.) Don't be afraid to describe.
There is nothing I hate more than an author just throwing a character out as the typical stereotyped hero/heroine, without even giving them a proper description. Especially in novels that do not include graphics of any sort, descriptions are a must. Give your character at least a general outline, and one focus. Most of us are not stunning models, nor are all of your characters, but we all have some distinguishing feature, such as an odd eye color, an odd hairstyle, things along those lines.
2.) When in doubt, sketch it out.
Sometimes, we have a hard time imagining our characters. Even if you've never managed to draw anything more than a stick figure, just having a visual of your character can help you gain a mental image of them. And if you're really in to drawing, there is no reason as to why you shouldn't have sketches of your characters populating your workspace.
3.) There is a lot to a name.
Names are a defining feature to a character. One of my favorite sites to search on if I'm looking for a name with a specific aspect is
Behind the Name, a resource of names from just about every ethnic origin you can think of, and some you wouldn't think of. It is a great reference especially if you are looking for name origins, and the companion site
Behind the Surname gives great info about surnames. Don't just name a dog "Rover" because you've heard of dogs being named that, think about the origins of the name, and what the word "rover" actually means.
4.) When writing fantasy, make the characters fantastic
As with the description, this takes it one step further. A common misconception that is unfortunately propagated by misuse of cliche characters is that all fantasy novels are set in some form of a medieval world with Humans, Elves, and Dwarves all wielding weapons of awesome power, fighting evil dragons and orcs and wizards to free the good races from oppression. There are so many stereotypes that I could probably do an entire post ranting about them, which may come at a later date. However, here is where we break the stereotype and explore new realms. Think of a character who isn't an Elf or a Dwarf or Human. Try to show what they look like. If you have a fondness for a particular animal, perhaps base your character on that animal. Create a new race, don't just stick to the classics. Or rename the classics without any reason.
5.) Don't be afraid to develop
I've seen far too many characters who have so much potential end up falling flat because there is no development to their personalities through the story. Make sure that you have something in your story that makes your character evolve. We don't go through real life without changing ideals, finding a new goal, or even deciding to forgo the our favorite chocolate cake in favor of a new flavor. You don't want your character to simply remain stagnant, never changing their ways. Give your character character!
6.) The most important part
Be unique. This ties in to the above five concepts. Combine it all together, and create a character that no one has ever seen before.
