Guest blogger, Carole Gift Page, continues to share her Ten Steps in Writing a Novel.
(Step 3 cont.) Last blog I shared 1-3 of the11 things I include in case histories. Here are 4-8:
4. His background and family history: History tends to repeat itself in generation after generation, as evidenced in the biblical concept of “the sins of the fathers.” Beliefs and actions are deeply rooted in the past.
5. His general attitude toward others and himself: Does he accept himself and others? Does he have identity and self-esteem problems to work through? Or does he have a healthy self-concept?
6. His outlook on life: Is it positive? Negative? Fearful? Reckless? Practical? Romantic?
7. His habits, both good and bad: Habits define him as a character. Does he eat a leisurely breakfast of bacon and eggs or grab a cup of black coffee on the run? Is his desk cluttered or spotless? Does he keep appointments on time or always arrive ten minutes late?
8. His education, profession, and station in life: What does a character’s career tell about him, his abilities, interests, and long-range goals? A diplomat or university professor will likely have different concerns and ways of expressing them than a taxi driver or steelworker. At the same time, be wary of stereotypes. Perhaps that diplomat got his start as a taxi driver.