Heading to Ayr Writer’s Club, the sunset painted the most awe-inspiring palette of fiery reds and soft pinks. I was moved to reflect on this stunning creative display of nature, hoping its energy would inspire me tonight.
Welcomed by our co-presidents, to the first Club Night of the season, our theme was ‘Characterisation.’ Our first task: to create a fictional character, who is wearing a hat chosen from the table of props. Carrie and Linda provided a very comprehensive checklist of questions to use in fleshing out a 3-dimensional character. We considered aspects such as looks, personality, background, goals, relationships, daily life, inner world, conflicts, challenges and habits.
Following this, we were given a choice of 4 scenarios in which to place our characters. The air buzzed with creativity as imaginations sparked to life. Individuals shared details of their complex, deep characters and immersed us in their intriguing synopses.
After the break, task 2 saw us working in groups, writing about a character we had chosen from the picture props, using our checklist as a guide. After much enthusiasm and laughter, groups shared their well-received collaborative endeavours.
These ranged from; a sweet-looking, psychopathic multiple husband killer, an impoverished looking but formerly successful businessman who had been defrauded, a charismatic young special forces German inadvertently joining an American mission to take down the US President, to an 82-year-old widow running 10k, twice a week, much to the disapproval of her family. It was noted that the original concepts often came from a tiny detail on a picture.
Linda commended the work and reminded members that many ideas created at club nights had the beginnings of a good short story which we would often be inspired to amplify later. Focused discussion on the value and variety of tools to build 3-dimensional characters ensued, as members shared their thoughts, experience and advice.
A written record was deemed essential for character consistency as stories progress, whether on sheets, card or even walls. A visual, not just in your mind’s eye, was also discussed. The importance of really getting to know your characters inside out, right down to the pimple on their elbow, was emphasised.
As I headed home, I wondered if I could ever look at a simple image again, without painting an elaborate fictional character in some convoluted scenario. And how well did I really know that character I have lived with for over 30 years? Oh well, I could always use my creative imagination and that checklist.
Louise Cawson
Great blog for another fun and inspiring night at AWC! Thanks, Louise, for capturing the essence so well.