Fire and Ice Characters






So many years ago, I read this book about writing called...yeah, that was a placeholder for when I found the book in my stack of writing books, but alas, I cannot find it.  I feel really bad sharing an author's words without knowing who they are or the book they are from, but the minute I find it I will edit this and share it.  I do know the book was one of those really skinny ones that was jam-packed with great writing advice.  But as for the title, it's just not present in the forefront of my mind. 

But in this little writing book, I found one of the best pieces of writing advice I've ever seen on character development.  It's short and sweet, but it's very in depth in its execution.  

When I read this book, I wrote this part down in my little notebook I used to carry everywhere and for years, I had lost that notebook.  But recently, I had found it (thank goodness) and was able to access this advice again (and share it with you!).  If you have any idea what the name of this book is or who wrote it, please let me know.  Until then, here is the advice: 


Fire and Ice Characters

FIRE: 

Does the reader:

  • Fear for the character?
  • Identify with them?
  • Root for them?
  • Empathize with them?

ICE: 

Create a character with: 

  • Intensity
  • Conflict
  • Emotions

Give them a goal they desperately have to reach. Then spend the rest of the story having them trying to achieve that goal. The more desperate, the more intense they are. The more obstacles, the more conflict. The more desire, the more emotional.


And that's it!  The book is filled with tons more amazing writing advice and you should totally buy it if you're a writer yourself, which you can do right here (I will post a link when I can find the book!!): 



In my current story, my character's goal is the most important thing she's ever wanted or needed.  She is beyond desperate.  And she works relentlessly to get to her goal.  Even though she actually has zero control over it, that doesn't stop her.  I really hope readers will be able to identify with her, with her connection to her loss.  And I really hope readers will root for her to get there, even though, again, it's out of her control.  And if the reader is an actual human being, I am sure they'll be able to empathize with her feelings of loss and grief and love.  Because stories, at their core, are about being human.

So, what do you think?  Do your readers fear for your characters?  Identify with them?  Root for them?  Empathize with them?  If not, get the book and find out how to make that happen!!  

When I find the book, I will put a link to it below!  



Here is a great link about character creation that I absolutely adore: 

33 Ways to Write Stronger Characters — Well-Storied.

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