Creating Depth in Fictional Characters

Have you ever found yourself struggling to infuse vitality into your characters? You're certainly not alone.

When I began my journey in fiction writing, I noticed that many of my characters mirrored each other, often reflecting my own personality. Many novice writers, myself included over a decade ago, grapple with the challenge of developing believable, multifaceted characters, no matter how hard they try. This often leads to frustration—whether it’s crafting characters that seem flawless, neglecting their backstories, or allowing dialogue to overshadow actions.

However, this experience doesn't have to be daunting. The underlying issue for many writers is their tendency to fall into common traps that are easily avoidable. By recognizing these pitfalls, you can take proactive steps toward creating richer, more engaging characters. Below are three major mistakes that frequently hinder writers:

1. Creating Flawless Characters —

New writers often view their characters as extensions of themselves. This perspective can be limiting. It’s essential to acknowledge that a character is a creation meant to serve the narrative, and maintaining a healthy distance from your characters is crucial.

When writers overly identify with their characters, they may idealize them, portraying a version of themselves rather than a unique individual. Although it can be beneficial to base a character on your experiences, you must also be willing to expose your flaws through them.

Why are imperfections important? We admire those who can achieve what we cannot, but we truly connect with others over shared vulnerabilities. Flaws are what make characters relatable and human. Take the film "3 Idiots" as an example: the true protagonists are Farhan and Raju, who embody struggles and aspirations that resonate with the audience, while the character Rancho, despite his exceptional traits, feels too distant for connection.

2. Neglecting Backstories or Overly Elaborate Ones —

The most effective way to incorporate backstory is to weave it into the narrative as it unfolds, rather than presenting it in a detached manner.

Consider a female character who refuses a marriage proposal. The reason for her rejection could stem from a painful experience with a deceptive ex-partner. Instead of detailing everything about that past relationship, focus on her feelings and how they impact her current choices.

In "The Silence of the Lambs," Clarice's ongoing battle with her childhood trauma illustrates this point perfectly. Similarly, in "Titanic," Rose’s decision to pursue freedom is subtly hinted at through her reactions to societal expectations, notably in a scene where she observes a young girl learning dining etiquette.

3. Separating Character from Plot —

Character and plot are intrinsically linked; they are two sides of the same coin.

Imagine a character placed in an incongruous situation—like John Wick suddenly playing jazz in "La La Land." Such disconnect can detract from the authenticity of the character. The plot should serve as the main obstacle that the character must navigate, providing ample opportunity for growth and transformation.

By designing a plot that challenges your protagonist, you enable them to evolve through their experiences. A perfect illustration is Joey from "Friends," whose comedic struggles stem from his aspiration to be an actor despite lacking talent.

Similarly, in "What Women Want," Mel Gibson’s male chauvinist character learns to empathize with women after gaining the ability to hear their thoughts, showcasing the transformative power of plot-driven character development.

In conclusion, while there is much more to learn about creating believable characters, these insights should help you get started.

Pro Tip: Maintain a healthy distance from your characters. And remember, “Bad decisions make great stories,” as Ellis Vidler wisely noted.

Ultimately, your characters must feel authentic. They are complex beings, filled with contradictions and vulnerabilities. As you practice and refine your skills, crafting relatable characters will become second nature.

Once you’ve developed your characters, consider outlining your story to ensure cohesion (you can find a free resource below).

Until next time, happy writing!

If you’re a fiction writer feeling stuck, check out the (free) Ultimate Story Outline Template that helps you organize ideas and finish your story:

Chapter 2: Common Writing Mistakes to Avoid

To further enhance your writing, check out this insightful video on common pitfalls new writers encounter.

Next, let’s explore mistakes writers often make when starting a novel.