Hey Hey everyone, welcome back! It is now time for part two of my series of hints on writing stories, and like I promised we are on to the horribly difficult, but ultimately most rewarding aspect, of writing. Characterization!

As everyone knows, its the people that really make stories go. In fact (though you most definitly can write stories focusing on a plot and letting characters swim along) having characters which drive the plot along is usually the more interesting.

Now Im not saying this is an easy task. For myself, I have the most probly creating believable characters,and that is because I was what I described earlier, a plot writer. I have great plots, great stories, but my characters, the people, turn out a bit wooden or stereotypical. Again, nothing wrong with that, but I've always been a perfectionist, and so I delved into the realm of characterizing last year in my Creative Writing class. What I found really surprised me. I could actually do it.

When I first began my story those many years ago (sitting at over 3 years now!) I had a good story, or at least I thought so. What I lacked though, was characters who could really propel my idea into new uncharted territories and make what my plot was real and tangible to those who read it. What I learned was that it really helps to first, as you begin your tale, to make up a bit of backstory about your characters. How might they react to this or that based on previous experiences in their "lives." You might even find by doing this you can add in foundation-like beginnings or flashbacks to help develop your characters.

Also, it really helps to know how your characters look, and I will be going in to more depth on this later as well as with dialog, but definitely know the limitations of your stars physically and mentally is essential for good Characterization.

Next Time: Descriptions and Making Worlds Come Alive!

If you guys have any more questions about writing that you would like answered, never hesistate to send me and email at otf_writersguild@hotmail.com, as I would be more than happy to answer them. Also, if you guys have any ideas of what you would like me to write here, drop me a line. Suggestions are always wonderful. Thank you guys for your time, and remember, keep those ideas growing, you never know how beautiful the flower may become

CL4 MTabek

For more help than I or a walking glossary could ever describe here, go to: Writing @ CSU: Writing Guide