In a post on the Killzone blog, Sue Coletta offers advice on creating compelling characters. “It starts with three dimensions,” she says. “We’re all layered.”
The first dimension of character is who we portray to the public. “That’s not to say we aren’t acting genuine, but when we are in a public setting we act appropriately—or we don’t, but that’s what you’ll have to figure out for your character,” Coletta explains. The second dimension is the side we show to family and close friends. “At home we let our guard down,” Coletta notes. “We’re more relaxed, more ourselves.”
The third dimension is our true character. “One’s true character is tested when they’re put into perilous situations,” Coletta writes. “If your character is sitting in a crowded theater when a fire breaks out, do they help others find the exit? Or do they trample the crowd to save themselves?”
Once you’ve examined your characters at these levels, go deeper by asking probing questions, like:
- What’s your greatest passion?
- What places have you gone?
- What was your childhood like?
- Are you an animal lover?
- What type of things are on your bucket list?
Coletta advises applying this practice to each of your characters, including your villain or antagonist.
