Unique Tips for Creating Memorable Characters in Your Fiction Writing

One of the first ways in which I judge a novel is the character development. If I don't care about the plight of the characters, why should I waste my time getting to page three hundred? Characters are the lifeblood of fiction writing, so here are several unique ways to create memorable characters.

Creating Memorable Characters: Establish Vulnerability

A perfect character with a perfect life is never interesting. In order for fiction writing to succeed, there must be conflict, and there is no conflict without vulnerability. In high school, we learn about characters' fatal flaws -- those weaknesses that make it difficult for the hero or heroine to triumph over whatever evil he or she faces. When a character is vulnerable to the elements, the reader becomes immersed in his or her plight and sympathizes with his or her problems.

Creating Memorable Characters: Create Agendas

In real life, we don't pursue something just because; we go after what we want because of our agenda. An agenda doesn't have to be negative and it can be a mixture of positive and negative, but there must be a driving force behind each of your character's actions. For example, maybe Nathan wants to ask the most beautiful girl in school to the prom because he sees her inner beauty, but perhaps he also wants to be respected by his peers. At the same time, the girl is struggling with her desire for popularity against her undeniable attraction to Nathan.

Creating Memorable Characters: Instill Moral Conflict

We don't always make the right decisions even if we defend them to the very end. When you create characters for fiction writing, you must instill a healthy level of moral conflict. A great example of this is Dean Koontz's The Husband. His protagonist, Mitch, is faced with the impossible dilemma: Will he kill to save his wife's life? You can start with a question as blatant as this, but feel free to explore the answers with your characters.

Creating Memorable Characters: Allow Down Time