The Busy Writer's One-Hour Character: The Busy Writer

Introduction

What comes first—characters or plot? This is a question commonly asked by aspiring writers when they're trying to map out a story. 

"Where should I start…?"

Some writers become paralyzed simply because they don't know what to do first.

Once you're a bit further into your writing journey, you will understand clearly that characters and plot are so intertwined that you're wasting your time trying to treat them as separate entities. A great plot won't work if it is populated with poorly-drawn characters, and even the most captivating character can't hold a reader's attention if the plot is weak or stale. That's why The One-Hour Character and The One-Hour Plot had to be companion volumes. 

Does the One-Hour Plot discuss characters? Yes, briefly—it has to, because a plot is all about cause and effect, and nothing happens without the characters' actions. There has to be a reason for the way a story unfolds—and that lies in the motives and actions of the characters. 

Does the One-Hour Character discuss the plot? Yes, of course—again, it must. When we explore the background to any plot event, we find a character in there somewhere. They react to adversity; they pursue a goal; they seek retribution. Circumstances drive characters. Additionally, you will discover that the quirks of your characters will drive the plot in directions that you hadn't anticipated when you created the first broad outline.

Either of the One Hour books will speed you on your way to a good story with interesting, well-motivated characters. Together, they will have you so engrossed in your characters' adventures that you can't wait to get to the computer to write the next exciting chapter. 

And before too long… you'll have a finished book, all ready to publish. Think of all those fans out there waiting for you! 

Why a One-Hour Character Creation Process?

Let me make it clear right now that I think the time invested in getting to know your characters is time well spent. It pays off in spades once you start to write. Your story people will stay 'in character', no matter what you throw at them. You'll understand their motivation, their strengths, and their weaknesses. You'll instinctively know how they'd react in any situation. 

But what if you don't have time to do this? What if you are offered the opportunity to write a short book, but they needed it yesterday? What if you're a busy, busy person, and you can barely scrape out an hour a day to write? 

If you need to create characters fast, then The One-Hour Character offers a way to do it. 

Start by giving yourself a time limit. Imagine that you have one hour—one hour, that's it—to come up with the major characters. How can you do it? How can you 'know' them well enough in this short time? 

Short answer: you'll be more than happy with what you can achieve in just one hour, and you'll amaze yourself. There's something about having a deadline that tends to bring out the best in many people. It's certainly worth having a go. 

BUT I strongly recommend that you read Chapter 1 first and pick one or more of the ways to give yourself a 'Character Pool' before you set your timer. Even if you have to do this while you're commuting to work or sitting in a car waiting to pick up your child from sports training, do it!

Chapter 2 will give you a run-down on the different types of characters you can use in your novel—the lead character, the sidekick, the confidant, and the opposition (or antagonist). Understanding these different roles will help you make the most of your one-hour character creation time. 

Ready? Let's not waste any more time. Your story people are waiting in the wings, ready to be called onstage!

1

Inspiration for Characters

You'll find the process of creating characters much easier if