I Spent 9 Years Creating the Perfect Way to Introduce Characters

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares eight essential steps for introducing characters in a story, offering valuable advice for writers. From showing a character's actions to making their first line of dialogue memorable, the video emphasizes the importance of creating dynamic, engaging introductions. Key steps include hinting at a character’s internal conflict, describing them efficiently, and choosing the right setting. The speaker also discusses avoiding common pitfalls like over-mystifying characters or introducing too many at once. By following these guidelines, writers can create more compelling and well-rounded characters that resonate with readers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Make your character do something meaningful when first introduced to reveal their personality and role.
• 😀 The first line of dialogue is crucial—make it memorable and revealing about the character’s motivations or traits.
• 😀 Hint at the character’s problem early on, even if it's not fully spelled out, to add depth and intrigue.
• 😀 Avoid long, detailed descriptions of a character. Instead, focus on the key physical traits that are relevant to the story.
• 😀 The setting should reflect the character's situation or personality, and set the tone for their introduction.
• 😀 Introduce characters in a way that contrasts with their character arc to make their transformation more dramatic and rewarding.
• 😀 Don’t make the mistake of trying to create mystery by withholding all information. Mystery comes from revealing interesting tidbits and leaving the reader wanting more.
• 😀 Avoid introducing multiple characters at once, as it can confuse the reader. Focus on one character at a time for a stronger impact.
• 😀 Steer clear of clichés like characters looking at themselves in mirrors to introduce their appearance.
• 😀 When reintroducing a character, do so naturally and subtly, reinforcing their traits without repeating everything from their first introduction.

Q & A

Why is it important to make a character do something when they are first introduced?

Making a character do something important helps showcase their personality and gives the reader an early understanding of who they are. This action should reveal something about their character, whether it’s their skills, habits, or values.

Can you provide examples of character actions that effectively introduce them?

In *Game of Thrones*, Tywin Lannister is introduced while skinning a deer, signaling his ruthlessness and hands-on approach. In *The Walking Dead*, Negan is introduced with a baseball bat wrapped in barbed wire and kills two people, highlighting his violence and power-driven nature.

What makes the first line of dialogue so crucial in character introductions?

The first line of dialogue is crucial because it often sets the tone for the character's personality, foreshadows their future actions, and provides insight into their motivations. A memorable, impactful line is key to establishing their role in the story.

How does Tywin Lannister's first line in *Game of Thrones* help define his character?

Tywin's first line, 'Attacking him was stupid, and Lannisters don’t act like fools,' shows his strategic thinking, his caution, and his loyalty to the Lannister name. It signals that he is smart, calculating, and protective of his family’s honor.

What is the significance of showing a character’s problem early in the introduction?

Hinting at a character's problem early on allows the reader to anticipate their struggles and journey. It adds depth to the character by foreshadowing future conflicts, making the story more engaging and giving the reader a reason to care about the character.

Can you explain how Negan’s introduction hints at his problem in *The Walking Dead*?

Negan’s introduction, with his use of violence and fear, hints at his overarching problem: his reliance on brutality to maintain control. This foreshadows his downfall as living by the sword often leads to death by the sword.

What is the modern approach to character descriptions compared to the old-school method?

The modern approach focuses on brief, selective descriptions that highlight the most important traits of a character, tying them to their narrative role or the story. This contrasts with the old-school method of lengthy paragraphs that provide excessive details.

How does Rebecca Yarros use description to characterize Violet in *Fourth Wing*?

Rebecca Yarros uses contrast to describe Violet, focusing on her frailty, short stature, and silver-tipped hair. This not only highlights her physical traits but also ties them to her challenges in the story, making the description meaningful.

Why is choosing the right location for a character’s introduction so important?

The location of a character’s introduction should reflect their personality or foreshadow their journey. For example, Jack Sparrow’s introduction on a sinking ship symbolizes his troubled career, while Indiana Jones’s introduction in a thick Peruvian forest reflects his adventurous spirit.

What is meant by introducing a character in the opposite of their narrative arc?

Introducing a character in a state that is the opposite of their eventual growth makes their character arc more compelling. This contrast highlights their transformation over the course of the story, adding emotional impact to their development.

What are some common mistakes authors make when introducing characters?

Common mistakes include over-mystifying characters by withholding too much information, introducing multiple characters at once, which can confuse the reader, and using clichés like having characters describe themselves in mirrors.

How should a character be reintroduced after a long absence in a story?

A character should be reintroduced naturally, with subtle reminders of their appearance or role in the story. This can be done through casual mentions or interactions rather than explicitly restating their details, keeping the narrative smooth and engaging.