Writing tip: Don’t write in a ‘static’ universe

Hi all,

Well, the holidays are almost over and people are getting back into the regular daily routine. And sometimes, things just seem so ‘blah’. That emotion can be transmitted into one’s writing and make it feel flat/lifeless.

Even if you’re working on a novel about plot A, you can still take some time out and think about your characters. Now, it’s easier to think about them and how they’d react over the holidays (Christmas, New Year’s, etc.). However, one should take some time and just think what a normal day with one consists of. Do they go to school, work? What classes do they take? What do they talk to their friends about? Do they stop at the local food store after work? What do they buy? I was talking once with a friend and we both agreed that no matter what characters/universe you’re writing about (yeah, even including vampires though they’d probably buy food for their guests, not themselves), you should be able to write at least one story about them going food shopping. Or if not writing it, be able to picture it in your mind.

I guess then, what I’m trying to say is that as an author, in order to write more vibrant characters, you should know them fully inside and out. Not only their likes and dislikes in a general sort of way but also, more intimate details. What sort of tea do they like? Do they use milk, lemon or both? And just how do they avoid those pesky vampire hunters in aisle 10? Yep, I guess vampires do have their own unique problems:)

Anyway, writing about a character’s daily routine will let you, as an author, feel closer to your character and be able to write them more fully (with more feeling) in subsequent stories, novels etc. if you allow yourself time to think about the sometimes mundane things that a character experiences in their life. And sometimes, that even includes writing your characters going food shopping:)

Take care all,
Chris