WritinGeekery.com http://www.writingeekery.com/ is an excellent resource with plenty of free advice and downloads for writers. One download that I have laminated sits alongside my computer. It is a simple check off list that helps with “The Groundwork of Character Creation”. Here is what I have so far for River Agosto, the protagonist in my novel in progress, with a working title of–River–an environmental thriller:
The Groundwork of Character Creation: (smart, strong, resourceful and romantically foolish)
River fears getting stuck in situations she cannot control which stifle her gregarious tendency to act on her instincts.
Her major flaw is her self-righteousness with no room for compromise.
She secretly betrayed a lover when she was in the military. Her actions went unnoticed. His actions resulted in a dishonorable discharge.
She loves animals way more than people.
River is clever, physically strong, and determined.
She wants money to buy a high desert working ranch.
She loves the high life but feels guilty when she indulges.
Environmental issues drive River above all else.
She regrets her military betrayal and her previous lover will play an antagonistic role.
I recently re-watched the 1967 movie “Cool Hand Luke”. Luke played by Paul Newman gave me a clue to River Agosto’s general statement. Like Luke she has come to understand governmental protocol and how to survive it–at least temporarily. Luke, of course, was imprisoned, and worked on a Florida road crew. River deals with a similar hierarchy of command that, like Luke, is against her nature and the movie quote, “What we’ve got here is failure to communicate,” fits the bill.
Stay tuned for more about River Agosto as she develops. I promise a fun ride.
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DEC
2015
About the Author:
Elaine Webster writes fiction, creative non-fiction, essays and poetry from her studio in Las Cruces, New Mexico—in the heart of the Land of Enchantment. “It’s easy to be creative surrounded by the beauty of Southern New Mexico. We have the best of everything—food, art, culture, music and sense of community.”