Latest Posts by mercuryexpress - Page 4
he could've just named the horse. seems like they weren't doing a whole lot in that desert. he had time
reblog if you believe fanfics are as valid as books that were published and sold by authors who write as their main careers. I'm trying to prove a point
Writing References: Character Development
50 Questions ⚜ "Well-Rounded Character" Worksheet
Basics: How to Write a Character ⚜ A Story-Worthy Hero
Basics: Character-Building ⚜ Character Creation
Key Characters ⚜ Literary Characters ⚜ Morally Grey Characters
Personality Traits
5 Personality Traits (OCEAN) ⚜ 16 Personality Traits (16PF)
600+ Personality Traits
East vs. West Personalities ⚜ Trait Theories
Tips/Editing
Character Issues
Character Tropes for Inspiration
Tips from Rick Riordan
Writing Notes
Allegorical Characters
Binge ED
Childhood Bilingualism ⚜ Children's Dialogue ⚜ On Children
Culture ⚜ Culture: Two Views ⚜ Culture Shock
Emotional Intelligence ⚜ Genius (Giftedness)
Emotions ⚜ Anger ⚜ Fear ⚜ Happiness ⚜ Sadness
Facial Expressions
Fantasy Creatures
Happy/Excited Body Language ⚜ Laughter & Humor
Hate ⚜ Love
Health ⚜ Frameworks of Health
Identifying Character Descriptions
Jargon ⚜ Logical Fallacies ⚜ Memory
Mutism ⚜ Shyness
Parenting Styles
Psychological Reactions to Unfair Behavior
Rhetoric ⚜ The Rhetorical Triangle
Swearing & Taboo Expressions
Thinking ⚜ Thinking Styles ⚜ Thought Distortions
Uncommon Words: Body ⚜ Emotions
Voice & Accent
Writing References: Plot ⚜ World-building
Character Goals In 3 Steps
Remember kids: For every major character, especially your protagonist, you need to know the following:
What do they want?
What’s in their way?
What are they willing to do to get it?
Recently beta’d a story where the protagonist’s only goals were what was right in front of their face at any given moment, no dreams or aspirations beyond what could be achieved in an evening, and whose wants would flip-flop and contradict each other, leaving them very confusing and frustrating to follow.
Your protagonist needs to have these goals established as quickly as possible, and ideally, every major scene and decision they make should reflect back on that goal, either working toward it or sacrificing gains and having to work backward. This establishes conflict, and, high stakes or low, every story has conflict.
Your side characters, especially the mysterious type, don’t need their hopes and dreams told to the audience with any haste, but you, the author, should still know them so that these characters don’t unintentionally contradict their own desires.
Examples:
A wants to buy this really cool bicycle
But it’s really expensive and they don’t have enough money
So they work odd jobs and sell trinkets in garage sales and make a lemonade stand, counting up their coins with each sale
.
B is secretly in love with C
But C is the barista at a coffee shop and possibly only nice as part of their job
So B must find a way to determine if C likes them back, without looking like a fool if they’re wrong, attempting to charm their way into a date
.
D just wants to live a normal happy life
But they’re dragged into a whirlwind adventure and are the long-lost heir
They sure don’t want this responsibility and fight hard against it, but eventually realize that their boring, normal life isn’t as satisfying as they thought, and then have to fight for their place in the plot
.
E is unhappy in their marriage and wants out
But societal expectations demand they stay put
So ensues E’s journey of self-discovery, and the pressures both internal and external to either leave or see through their commitment
This is my first ever short story! It’s based off of a real clown who beat a child to death in the street. I hope anyone reading gets a kick out of it!
“Punchy the Clown”
Jonathan Griswald had been the butt of the joke for most of his life, but the important thing is that it wasn't his fault.
"Look at Jonny's crooked nose! He looks like a dumb old crow!"
"Y'know Jon, you've been getting a little round lately... it's a wonder your bum leg hasn't given out! HA!"
"Dad, that man has funny eyes. Why is one so big? Did he steal them?"
Yeah, yeah. He was SO funny to all the morons, all his "friends", every little damn brat on the street.
But it couldn't get any worse than that. At least, that's what Jonathan thought. His school life had been hell; why wouldn't it have been? No one cared to hear a word that came out of his mouth. They all took him for a fool. An idiot! Because they thought he looked funny! Jonathan was no idiot. He was a GENIUS. He knew it. He had to be. His parents were smart, his father was rich. He was destined for greatness.
Or he would be.
It didn't matter that he nearly was flunked out of school. It didn't matter that he couldn't write clearly, or couldn't read. And it wasn't HIS fault no one knew how smart he was. No, better to save his breath, and his ideas. Oh, the ideas Jonathan had. He'd take the world by storm, show those idiots what was so funny when he had them shining his shoes! He'd decided that he was to be a great scientist. One day. Even a genius like him didn't know everything, and how was he expected to pay much attention in school when everybody was laughing so hard? It didn't matter what subject; he knew he'd pick up anything that was ACTUALLY important with ease. They'd be tripping over themselves to sway him to be a biologist, or a chemist, or some other science branch where he belonged. All he had to do was get into a university! He had just the one in mind, a prestigious academy in the capital. But even a genius like him knew to temper his expectations; the top university might not be ready for him right out the gate. It was probably reserved for graduate level students, already on the verge of becoming masters, and naturally with an unfair advantage over him, just a few years out of high school. He applied anyway, as well as to the rest of the top ten universities around the surrounding cities. It would just be five or so years he'd have to coast along to get to greatness. He would be rich. Maybe even famous! But he paced himself, for he was nothing if not modest. It was one spring morning when his offers finally came pouring in.
"Dear Mr. Griswald,
After reviewing your application, it is with some displeasure that we cannot accept you as a student at our university..."
"Jonathan Griswald,
Our university receives thousands of applications a year, and we regret to tell you you did not make the cut..."
"Mr. Jonathan Griswald,
Unfortunately, your transcripts are not up to the standards we set for our prospective students..."
"J Griswald - REJECTED."
His life was over before it even began.
He wasn't good enough for even the least popular of the many universities he'd applied to.
They thought he was an idiot.
That he wasn't worth their time.
He could hear them laughing at him.
But he couldn't give up; not yet. If he had a flaw, he knew it would be his writing. Why else would they ALL reject him? Something must have gotten lost along the way. They didn't feel his passion. They didn't know just how smart he could be. He sat, surrounded by torn envelopes and crumpled letters.
That's it!
If his problem was his writing, then he'd best go do the talking himself! It was a mistake to think anyone would even read his essays in the first place. His apartment was just a few blocks across the city from the best of the best. Surely, they'd let him speak and show how incredible he truly was! He hobbled over to his cane, put on his coat and hat, and fled out the door into a bright and beautiful morning. Yes, he would make them understand. Today would be a good day.
Some twenty minutes later, panting and cramping like hell, Jonathan found himself in front of an office of the university. Inside, there was a billboard with news clippings and fliers on it; academic fairs, a research grant opportunity, and a calendar graced it, as well as frivolous things like an advertisement for a new automobile. There was even a poster for a circus that would be arriving soon. One day, HE would be on a billboard. He'd be on them all! No scholar would go a day without knowing of Jonathan Griswald, a genius of great renown! All he had to do was secure his place as a student. He limped through the hall to a set of double doors at the end, in which some less important meeting was happening, took a deep, shaking breath, and burst in.
"Excuse me, I am Jonathan Griswald. I have applied to be a student at this academy, but I believe I was rejected by mistake. I have what it takes to be a genius, and I beg you to allow me to be a scholar!"
He glanced around him, at the smart-looking men circled around the room. Any moment now, one would speak up, shoot to their feet, and as he spoke he could feel himself gain confidence. Jonathan went over some of his best ideas, his most ambitious projects, that he was sure could work if only he got the chance! He talked.
And talked.
And talked.
Until he was done.
Until finally, gasping for air, he gazed upon the men in the room.
And one spoke.
"Excuse me sir, but I believe you have the wrong building. You see, we are an institute of science, and we teach students. Of those, we do not accept people of your sort. I must admit, your getup is impressive. Perhaps you will find your place as a 'genius' with the circus." He smiled.
It was a wicked thing.
"I am no clown," Jonathan vehemently denied, "I am a genius! You MUST accept me, I implore you - "
But he could not get out another word. His ears suddenly filled with a thunderous sound. It was so deafening, it reverberated in his bones.
Laughter.
They were LAUGHING at him. All of them! All these scientists and professors, sat around their little table, surrounding him with their laughter.
These idiots. Stupid, idiotic fools. A clown, was he? He hurt in his chest, his heart alight with rage. There was a pounding noise now. Blood in his ears.
"Hah! Look at his red face! Now you REALLY look the part!" Another spoke up.
"You know, he could be this generation's next great clown like that!"
"A scholarly clown! What a joke..."
Jonathan couldn't take it anymore. He lifted up his cane, determined to march out the doors. Instead, he nearly fell, barely catching himself on the knob.
Another surge of laughter, battering him like waves in a storm.
He pried open the door and threw himself into the hall, down to the building's entrance, and out into the street.
They barely gave him a chance! He came to them in person! He had every right to be there among those men! Those beasts. They cackled wolfishly in his mind. He could still hear the peals of laughter through open windows.
He hated them. Just because he looked strange, because his work wasn't given the respect it deserved, that HE deserved, he couldn't be a scholar.
They were the worst of mankind, truly. Scum. Vermin. Morons who probably got by just because they LOOKED like scientists. They were probably rich too. They must've paid someone for their status. They must've felt threatened by him! By his ideas! He ought to go back in there and give them a real piece of his mind!
He could feel the blood in his cheeks now.
Jonathan Griswald fled the academy building like a crooked, crazed storm. His arms thrashed out at nothing as he tried in vain to savagely beat the air before him. He could barely hear himself think, let alone anything else on the street that morning. Except for one thing.
A little girl, standing by her mother.
"Mommy, look! It's Punchy the Clown!"
It wasn't his fault.
Who could blame him? A genius like him, a clown? It seemed everyone thought so these days. He didn't belong in a circus, damn it!
It wasn't his fault. She was practically asking for it.
He slammed his cane down. Down into her pretty, young face. Again and again, he swung down at the girl, lying in the street, as her mother sobbed and screamed for help. her face was a mess of blood and bone.
It wasn't his fault.
There was blood on his face.
No one was laughing now.
JONATHAN GRISWALD - SENTENCED TO DEATH BY ELECTRIC CHAIR FOR MURDER OF A CHILD
✨the end✨
Fantasy Worldbuilding Without Ignorant Protagonists
A reminder, as we approach Arcane Season 2, that exposition in a fantasy setting can be given sparingly, and yet still tell an enthralling story.
Or, imagine how different Arcane, or Game of Thrones, or Lord of the Rings would have been if they were “stranger in a strange land” type fantasies with ignorant Earth protagonists who needed the whole plot and kitchen sink explained to them?
I dislike audience exposition vectors, not just in fantasy, but usually in a fantastical setting ranging from urban fantasy to superhero stories, because they’re an author crutch, giving the illusion of having to explain every little detail so the audience can keep up when… if this character wasn’t the hero, and you had to pick a character who knew about the world to be your protagonist, they wouldn’t be asking all these obvious questions and you'd still be able to tell the story.
I know why they exist, so they can be the vehicle through which the audience lives vicariously. We share their wonder and amazement as this cool new realm awes and humbles and frightens them.
But what these characters tend to lack is agency, specifically when they’ve been around in this setting for long enough that they really should start to know better. Or, if they’re built up as smart and self-sufficient, and yet don’t ever seek out information about the plot or their new world beyond asking the other characters dumb questions.
Example because I love these books: In The Titan’s Curse (PJO Book 3) Percy complains about not being able to manipulate the Mist, of which his new rival, Thalia, can do easily. This is one of the first things he does in the book. Because he has to remain the butt of the “seaweed brain” joke (and Annabeth must remain The Smart One), Percy hasn’t already learned how to do this very important trick (and he never does).
While it would behoove him to learn, when he’s had 2.5 years to do so, he just… didn’t. He also doesn’t know what the Manticore is to retain the suspense… when he’s had plenty of time and motive to study up on all the things that eagerly want to kill him, and has a nerdy girlfriend who’d be more than happy to lecture him with this information.
Even something as simple as Percy being shocked that he’s right that it’s the Manticore would have given him a little bit more agency. He’s an incredibly clever character, but still has to serve as the audience exposition vehicle, so he has to remain ignorant so the plot can explain things to him. He's as cherry-picked clueless as the story demands sometimes.
So. You want to have a character for the audience to live vicariously? Please give them expository agency.
Meaning–give them means and motives to learn about their new world on their own instead of asking questions as the plot demands. Or even let these characters form their own biases on what they think they know so that the actually knowledgeable characters can go “um actually”.
I once wrote a protagonist who was from her fantasy world, but purposefully ignorant about life beyond her planet. Why? So I could have all my other characters explain things to her that they would not explain to each other. But she was from a world with heavy information policing and manipulation, so she thought she knew plenty (naively, not arrogantly), giving plenty of fodder for conflict as opposed to just exposition.
It wasn’t just A learning about the new planet for the audience’s benefit, it was A realizing she was misled and lied to, and learning what “facts” she has that are wrong. Was it perfect? Heck no, but not only was this part of her character growth, by the second book, she was all studied up and when something unknown came along, the whole team shared in the confusion.
I did the same thing with Elias, my protagonist in Eternal Night of the Northern Sky. He’s very purposefully, literally sheltered, literally grew up under a rock, but his people have incredibly loud biases against vampires. Elias has plenty of knowledge about his world, both that is correct and vastly incorrect, while still lacking basic knowledge of other survival skills because he’s never had the opportunity.
Elias’s biases drive early conflict and conversation. He’s not going “what’s a vampire” so the other characters can stop the plot to explain them to him. He’s going “I know exactly what a vampire is” and the plot is him getting kicked on his ass with the truth.
So you can have that naive amazement factor, but also still have a character underneath. You can also let that character show off their acclimation into their world by not being afraid to stop making them the ignorant exposition machine.
Just thoughts.
How to Create A Villain
The best villains? They don’t even see themselves as the bad guys. They’re 100% convinced that what they’re doing is right, even if it’s messed up. Maybe they’re trying to “save the world” by doing something super questionable, or they think enforcing strict rules is the only way to keep society in check. They truly believe they’re the hero of their own story, which makes them way more interesting and real.
And Yeah, your villain might want power, but the real question is: Why? Were they humiliated in the past and now want control? Did they grow up powerless and now crave it to avoid being vulnerable again? When you dig into their backstory and show us why they’re doing horrible things, it makes them a lot more relatable—even if they’re totally wrong.
Flat, one-note villains are boring. If your antagonist is going to stick with people, they need depth. Show us what’s going on under the surface. Maybe they lie awake at night, doubting their choices, or they’re still haunted by a massive failure that’s pushing them toward their goal. A villain with personal struggles and vulnerabilities feels way more human and way harder to fully
A great Villain doesn’t just fight the hero, they reflect them. They might have totally different goals, but at their core, they share similar traits, maybe ambition, stubbornness, or a tragic backstory. When the hero looks at the villain, they should see a bit of themselves, and that’s what makes the conflict between them so intense.
When the villain finally goes down, it should feel big. Their defeat shouldn’t just be a fight, it should hit them emotionally. Ideally, their downfall comes from their own flaws, maybe they got too arrogant or made a mistake because of their obsessive goal. The best villain defeats leave the audience feeling a little sad or conflicted, not just happy for the hero’s win.
How to introduce your character in 3 steps
A friend of mine was the source of this very pertinent question. So I decided to write a blog entry about it. Because how do you introduce your character without sounding fake ?
Remember that, in real life situation, no one calls you by your name. Have you noticed that none of your friends is adressing you by your name, unless they're trying to get your attention or that something serious is happening ? That should be the same in your story : find a situation where it is relevant to use names. Or stick to nicknames, which is a more common way to address your friends.
Use another character. If you can’t come up with a situation, you can always rely on a side character to introduce your MC. It’s also the perfect way to describe your character rather than simply using mirror, which is convenient yet very cliché. But the fun thing to do is to make several characters talk about your MC : their opinion might go in different directions due to their relationships, their own sensibility and attention to details. It’s also a good way to breath life into your side characters so please consider that option seriously.
The reader doesn’t need to know everything, especially on the very first page. Unless the info is relevant to the plot, there is no need for the reader to know MC’s favourite food or eye’s color. If you’re on character-sheet-side (which I’m not btw), you should be careful about wether the reader the story will progress or not. Try to be balanced !
What I really want to stress in this article is the importance of action when introducing your character. You want the reader to know your character is courageous ? Put them directly into a situation where they can show courage. You want to describe their hair color ? What about that moment when the light is flickering in a way that gives their hair a peculiar effect that catches the eye of another character ?
Don’t worry, your creativity will always find a way ~
Reblog if you think asexuality is a legitimate sexuality.
I'm trying to prove something.
Quick Tips for Writing Emotional Tension
They act like they don’t care, but we all know they’re just avoiding a massive emotional explosion.
One of them starts to spill their feelings, then clams up like, “Uh, never mind…” Cue the frustration.
One character throws out something super personal like it’s no big deal, but you can tell the other one’s like, “Wait, what?”
They let something slip that they were totally not ready to share, and then they freeze like, “Did I just say that?”
The “I’m fine” smile (but they’re not). One gives this shaky smile that doesn’t fool anyone, especially the other character.
They almost grab each other’s hand or hug, then they hesitate, and the moment passes. UGH, so frustrating!
One of them’s on the verge of tears but is trying sooo hard not to lose it. You can feel how much it hurts.
They talk about literally everything except the thing that’s actually bothering them. So. Annoying.
They used to be shoulder to shoulder, but now they’re standing a whole three feet apart like something big changed.
One’s suddenly acting like they barely know the other, being all polite and formal, and you just know there’s more going on.
12 Emotional Wounds in Fiction Storys
Betraying a Loved One. Your character made a choice, and it backfired, badly. They betrayed someone close to them, maybe on purpose, maybe by accident. Now, the guilt’s eating them alive. They might try to fix things, but can they even make up for what they did?
Guilt Over a Past Mistake. They made a mistake, one that cost someone else. Maybe it was reckless, maybe it was a dumb decision, but now it haunts them. They can’t stop thinking about it, and no matter how hard they try to make things right, the past keeps pulling them back.
Survivor’s Guilt. Imagine surviving something awful, an accident, a disaster, but someone else didn’t make it. Now your character is stuck asking, “Why me? Why am I still here?” They push people away, convinced they don’t deserve to be happy or even alive.
Feeling Powerless. Your character is trapped, maybe in an abusive home, a toxic relationship, or just in life itself. They feel stuck, with no control over their own future.
Being Wrongly Accused. They didn’t do it. But no one believes them. Your character has been falsely accused of something serious, maybe even a crime and now they’re fighting to clear their name. It’s not just about proving their innocence, though. They’re also battling the pain of being abandoned by people who were supposed to stand by them.
Public Humiliation. They’ve just been humiliated in front of everyone, maybe it’s a video gone viral, or they were betrayed by someone they trusted. Now, they can’t even look people in the eye.
Living in Someone’s Shadow. No matter what they do, it’s never enough. Someone else, a sibling, a friend, a partner, always shines brighter. They feel stuck in that person’s shadow, invisible and overlooked.
Abandoning a Dream. They had big dreams, but somewhere along the way, life got in the way, and now they’ve given up. Maybe it was because of fear or circumstances beyond their control, but the loss of that dream has left them feeling empty.
Childhood Trauma. Something happened to them when they were young, something painful that still affects them today. Whether it was abuse, neglect, or a significant loss, the trauma follows them into adulthood, shaping how they see themselves and the world.
Being an Outsider. They’ve never felt like they fit in, whether because of their background, their personality, or something else. They long for acceptance but fear they’ll never find it.
Struggling with Addiction. They’re caught in a destructive cycle, whether it’s with substances, behaviors, or even people. The shame and struggle to break free from addiction are real and raw.
Living with Chronic Illness. They’re living with a chronic illness or disability, and it’s not just the physical challenges that weigh them down, it’s the emotional toll, too. Maybe they feel isolated, or like they’re a burden to others.
Shows you should save physically immediately + addition I recommend reading
Over the Garden Wall -- It's being pulled from HBO Max on August 31 and knowing HBO, there's a chance it'll be pulled sooner. *I have now made a Google Drive of all the episodes of OTGW. Please, please, please, PLEASE, save these on a physical device.
The Owl House -- Disney has tried to bury this show many times (giving it a weird release schedule, cutting the budget, etc) and has even cancelled the show. Also, Disney+ is going to nuke their catalogue soon and I doubt TOH will survive*I have now also saved all the episodes of TOH. Click here for the posts with all of the episodes
Amphibia -- I know less about the behind the scenes BS than TOH but Amphibia was screwed over by Disney mainly by poor promotion. Also since one of the protagonist is openly bisexual*, like TOH, I really can't imagine this would survive.*Amphibia has also been saved. Go here for the post with all the episodes.
Steven Universe -- Cartoon Network cancelled Steven Universe and gave it a weird release schedule, it has also just been pulled from HBO Max.
Gravity Falls -- Once again, Disney+ is going to nuke their catalogue at some point in the future and between Wendy being canonically bi, Sheriff Blubs and Deputy Durland being in a relationship, and Alex Hirsch (being the amazing man that he is) constantly calling Disney out on their BS, I imagine that Disney would be more than willing to nuke Gravity Falls. *I’ve also saved Gravity Falls now go to the main post here to see all the episodes.
and most importantly
Every single show, book, game, fanfiction, movie, etc you've ever loved
We now know that at any moment's notice, streaming services can and will just nuke their catalogue without hesitation. If it's digital, it can be removed and there's a likely chance you'll never see it again.
So, please take some time to save anything you love on an external device. It could be a box set (it can be official or fan-made one), a USB, or anything.
If you have a physical copy of something, it's yours forever and no one can take that away from you.
*Edit because I’ve seen some confusion about this. Read this again, it’s “one of the protagonists” not “the protagonist.” Sasha is the one who’s bi, Anne’s sexuality hasn’t been confirmed.
Also in addition to this, people have reblogged this to say Steven Universe is still on HBO. Since I don’t have HBO, I’ve been going off of what people have been saying and I’ve seen it mentioned that HBO was taking off SU. You should still save it though.
*Edit 2 if any of the links here don’t work, check the original post as I might’ve changed/updated them. If that still doesn’t work, send me an ask or DM I’ll give them to you.
Character Development: 50 Questions
What does your character do when they think no one’s looking?
What’s the one thing your character would save in a fire (beyond the necessities)?
Who’s on speed dial?
Your character gets turned down for their dream job. What’s their second choice?
What would they tell their ten-year-old self?
Where would they want to go on a first date?
What’s the best advice they’ve ever received?
What’s the worst advice they’ve ever received?
What’s one physical detail they’d change about themselves?
When was the last time they were held? By who?
What’s their favorite thing about their favorite season?
Their wallet gets stolen. What do they do?
Prioritize: Love, money, power, knowledge?
What’s something nobody knows about them?
What’s in their fridge?
What (creature, object, substance) are they most disgusted by?
What’s their second worst habit?
What are the victory conditions for their life?
In the end, your character fails to save the day. Assuming they survive, what do they do?
Your character is charged with a crime they didn’t commit. What do they do?
Your character is charged with a crime they did commit. What was the crime?
How would you describe your character’s life in one sentence?
What important statistic would they want displayed above them?
What’s the first thing they would buy if they won the lottery?
What profession do they most respect?
What childhood injustice did they never get over?
How would they handle having a panic attack?
Your character is burdened with an inconvenient superpower. What is it?
If they died and could come back as any person, animal, or object, what would they be?
What’s the best meal they’ve ever had?
Where would they stand at a dinner party?
Who would they invite to the dinner party?
What makes a perfect day for your character?
If given the opportunity, would they want to know how and when they died?
What’s the one thing they’ve always wanted to do? Why haven’t they done it yet?
What do they tend to joke about?
What’s off limits?
Whose wedding would they cross the world to attend? Whose funeral?
What impossible choice did they make that turned out to be the right one? The wrong one?
Your character has someone to hype them up. What would they say to get everyone excited about your character?
What recurring dream does your character have?
What is the meaning of life to your character?
What book does your character pretend to have read?
Someone takes undeserved credit for your character’s work. What do they do?
What controversial belief or view does your character hold? Why? Do they hide it?
Your character is at a theme park. Where do they go first?
What’s your character’s favorite name?
What’s the biggest compliment they’d give themselves?
How does your character feel about bugs?
If your character could hit a reset button on their life, would they?
Source
what will your character do..
(reblog and brainstorm, lovelies! u can also write drabbles with theseee )
if they're met face to face with their plot, with no warning?
if they're stressed?
if they're happy? who will they want to share it with?
if they're sad? will they go to anyone for comfort? if yes, who?
if they're forced into a life of death situation?
if they're being threatened?
if they're kissed by their ex?
if they're confessed to by someone who they had no clue liked them? (given, they're single or not)
if their lover betrays them?
if they're coughing up blood out of the blue?
if there's a strange presence in the room, and it feels ominous?
if they discovered a dead body?
^ if the dead body is their best friend? (great question to start and develop a plot)
if their enemy is at their doorstep, bruised and injured?
if they had to share a bed with someone they don't particularly hate? ahem
if they had to be fed by someone they didn't like/their crush?
if their partner-to-be? enemy? pulls them into a secluded and shushes them? (their bodies pressing and all that!!)
when asked to choose between their family and their lover? (given the circumstances of ur story)
when kissed on their head by their enemy after a near death experience?
if they're dancing with a stranger, and the stranger says 'stop dancing, sweetheart and you'll hunted. do u wanna die?' ?
if they find out the food that served to them has glass dust on it? (who is it served by?)
when being pulled into a hug when they most need it by someone they least expect?
when they have to hold someone they loved at a gun point? why would it even occur?
when they have to choose between their own life and their lover's?
when they've to give up something (of great importance to the character) to save their lover?
ultimate character development template
basics
name: meaning of name: nicknames/titles: age: gender: location: birthday: strengths + example where it's shown: weaknesses + example where it's shown: how it affects others:
emotional depth
attachment style + how it manifests in the story: physical fear: emotional/abstract fear: happy memory: sad memory: object of significance: philosophical outlook/belief: what characters are ignorant about themselves: how confident are they: goal: long-term dreams: what they're embarrassed/ashamed to tell others about: regrets: source of pride: source of misery: what they admire above all else: do they believe in fate:
personality
mbti: enneagram: big five: character archetype: star sign: who they pretend to be on the outside: who they actually are/how they feel towards the mask: mental health conditions: how it manifests for them: iq: eq: humour: reputation:
habits
bad habits: mannerisms when stressed: mannerisms when content: mannerisms when scared: mannerisms normally: verbal mannerisms/distinctive speaking style: how do they move across a room: what do they say and what remains unsaid: how they express love: hobbies:
appearance
defining features: eye shape + colour: hair texture + colour: skin texture + tone: vibe: height: build: clothing: any bodily disfigurement (scars, etc.): overall attractiveness: their opinion on their appearance: appeals to:
relationships
who they trust most: what they wish they could do for them: what's holding them back: who they hate most: what they wish they could do to them: what's holding them back: relationship with the protagonist: relationship with the antagonist: siblings: relationship with them: parents/step-parents: relationship with them: previous broken relationships: why did it break: what others expect of them: who believes in them: their mentor character/who they look up to: political/religious/other affiliations: what makes them different from every other character: non-human relationships + why: romantic "type" + why: relationship dynamics:
backstory/background
primary emotion towards their past: primary feelings while in their past: where did they grow up: defining incidents: earliest childhood memory: saddest memory: happiest memory: major accomplishments: their opinion on it: notable people in their backstory: effect on them today: trauma: what have they already lost: financial circumstance:
progression
why are they important (eg. why're they the only one able to do something?): what do they learn about themselves throughout the story: what do they learn about the world: how do they feel towards their newfound knowledge: character arc (positive, negative, neutral): how relationships change because of their actions: what mistakes do they make: what scene is their character highlighted: do they get what they want: why or why not: what happens to them after the story ends:
this reads like a list of my personality traits
120 ULTIMATE LIST OF CHARACTER FLAWS. Writers save this!
1. Moral Flexibility - Adapts their ethics to fit the situation, often justifying questionable actions as necessary.
2. Cognitive Dissonance - Holds two conflicting beliefs or values and struggles to reconcile them, leading to inner turmoil.
3. Overempathy - Feels others’ emotions too intensely, leading to burnout or an inability to make objective decisions.
4. Intellectual Arrogance - Dismisses others’ ideas as inferior, believing their own intellect is superior.
5. Chronic Overthinking - Analyzes situations to the point of paralysis, unable to take decisive action.
6. Restless Wanderlust - Has a constant desire for change or travel, leading to instability in relationships or careers.
7. Savior Complex - Feels compelled to “save” others, often to the detriment of their own well-being or others’ autonomy.
8. Emotional Vampirism - Drains others emotionally, needing constant validation or attention.
9. Righteous Indignation - Becomes excessively angry over perceived injustices, often alienating others.
10. Altruistic Self-Destruction - Sacrifices themselves for others to an unhealthy degree, often leading to self-neglect.
11. Pathological Modesty - Downplays their own achievements to the point of self-sabotage or invisibility.
12. Incapable of Solitude - Feels an intense fear of being alone, leading to codependent or unhealthy relationships.
13. Over-Rationalization - Justifies every action or decision, even when it’s clearly flawed, to avoid guilt or responsibility.
14. Constant Self-Sabotage - Subconsciously undermines their own success due to deep-seated fears or insecurities.
15. Misplaced Loyalty - Stays loyal to people or causes even when it’s harmful or undeserved.
16. Ethical Rigidity - Follows their moral code to the letter, unable to adapt to complex or gray situations.
17. Need for Obscurity - Prefers to stay unnoticed or in the background, avoiding recognition or responsibility.
18. Involuntary Aloofness - Appears distant or disinterested, often without meaning to, leading to misunderstandings.
19. Fear of Mediocrity - Terrified of being ordinary, they constantly strive for greatness, often leading to burnout.
20. Rejection Sensitivity - Overreacts to criticism or perceived slights, often withdrawing or lashing out.
21. Conflict Avoidance - Avoids confrontation at all costs, leading to unresolved issues and resentment.
22. Over-idealization of Others - Puts people on pedestals, only to be deeply disappointed when they don’t meet expectations.
23. Chronically Unfulfilled - No matter what they achieve, they always feel something is missing, leading to constant searching.
24. Compulsive Truth-Telling - Feels compelled to speak the truth, even when it would be kinder or wiser to remain silent.
25. Overactive Imagination - Sees threats or possibilities where there are none, leading to anxiety or missed opportunities.
26. Faux Humility - Pretends to be humble but secretly craves admiration or validation.
27. Micromanagement - Needs to control every detail, often suffocating others or hindering their own progress.
28. Anachronistic Thinking - Clings to outdated beliefs or practices, struggling to adapt to modern realities.
29. Over-Reliance on Routine - Becomes anxious or lost without their routines, struggling to adapt to change.
30. Selective Memory - Remembers events in a way that suits their narrative, often distorting the truth.
31. Paradoxical Fear of Success - Desires success but subconsciously fears the changes or responsibilities it might bring.
32. Compassion Fatigue - Once empathetic, now numbed or indifferent due to overwhelming exposure to others’ suffering.
33. Overwhelming Nostalgia - Lives in the past, unable to move forward or appreciate the present.
34. Unyielding Perfectionism - So focused on flawlessness that they struggle to complete tasks or accept anything less than perfect.
35. Epistemic Arrogance - Believes they know everything worth knowing, dismissing the possibility of learning from others.
36. Excessive Hedonism - Pursues pleasure to the point of neglecting responsibilities or moral considerations.
37. Over-Cautiousness - So afraid of making mistakes that they rarely take action, leading to missed opportunities.
38. Idealistic Naivety - Believes the world should operate according to their ideals, often clashing with reality.
39. Ambition without Direction - Desires greatness but has no clear path or plan, leading to frustration and failure.
40. Emotional Transference - Projects unresolved emotions onto others, often misinterpreting their intentions or actions.
41. Overdependence on Routine - Becomes anxious or lost without their routines, struggling to adapt to change.
42. Misplaced Guilt - Feels responsible for things outside of their control, leading to unnecessary self-blame.
43. Fear of Being Ordinary - Constantly strives to stand out, often at the expense of authenticity or well-being.
44. Chronic Indecisiveness - Struggles to make even simple decisions, constantly second-guessing themselves.
45. Faux Cynicism - Pretends to be jaded or cynical as a defense mechanism, while secretly caring deeply.
46. Romanticization of Suffering - Believes that suffering is noble or meaningful, often rejecting happiness or comfort.
47. Selective Compassion - Empathetic towards some but completely indifferent or cold to others, often based on biases.
48. Avoidant Optimism - Avoids negative thoughts or situations, clinging to an unrealistic positivity that ignores real problems.
49. Fear of Abandonment - Clings to relationships out of fear of being left alone, often leading to unhealthy dynamics.
50. Overidentification with Work - Sees their job as their entire identity, struggling with self-worth outside of work.
51. Excessive Altruism - Sacrifices their own needs to help others, often to their own detriment.
52. Self-Imposed Isolation - Withdraws from others out of fear of rejection or misunderstanding, leading to loneliness.
53. Over-Analysis Paralysis - Overthinks every situation to the point of being unable to make decisions or take action.
54. Eternal Romantic - Sees the world through a lens of idealized love, often leading to disillusionment or heartbreak.
55. Emotional Incontinence - Struggles to control their emotions, often overwhelming others with their intensity.
56. Fear of Aging - Obsessed with youth, they go to great lengths to deny or hide the aging process.
57. Intellectual Cowardice - Avoids challenging their own beliefs or ideas, sticking to what they know out of fear of change.
58. Emotional Hoarding - Holds onto past hurts or grudges, unable to let go and move on.
59. Unquenchable Curiosity - Always needs to knw more, often prying into others’ lives or crossing boundaries.
60. Romantic Escapism - Uses fantasy or daydreams as a way to avoid dealing with reality, leading to detachment.
61. Masochistic Tendencies - Deliberately seeks out situations that cause them pain or discomfort, believing they deserve it.
62. Incurable Wanderer - Can never settle down, always moving on to the next place or experience, leading to rootlessness.
63. Dependency on Validation - Needs constant approval or praise from others to feel good about themselves.
64. Constant Self-Reinvention - Continuously changes their identity or persona, never settling on who they truly are.
65. Moral Masochism - Finds satisfaction in self-punishment or guilt, often holding themselves to impossible standards.
66. Faux Bravado - Pretends to be fearless or confident to hide deep-seated insecurities or fears.
67. Over-romanticization of the Past - Idealizes past experiences, believing that things were better back then, leading to dissatisfaction with the present.
68. Chronic Hedging - Never fully commits to decisions or actions, always leaving themselves an escape route.
69. Fear of Stagnation - Constantly needs to be doing something or moving forward, fearing they’ll become irrelevant or bored.
70. Over-Attachment to Objects - Places excessive sentimental value on material possessions, struggling to let go.
71. Emotional Stoicism - Refuses to show or acknowledge emotions, leading to repression and eventual breakdowns.
72. Self-Flagellation - Constantly punishes themselves for perceived failures or mistakes, often disproportionate to the actual events.
73. Fear of the Unknown - Terrified of what they can’t predict or control, leading to anxiety or avoidance of new experiences.
74. Romantic Pessimism - Believes that love or relationships are doomed to fail, leading to self-sabotage or cynicism.
75. Intellectual Purism - Believes in the superiority of “pure” intellectual pursuits, often dismissing practical or emotional concerns.
76. Existential Dread - Obsesses over the meaning (or lack thereof) of life, leading to paralysis or despair.
77. Involuntary Nonconformity- Desires to fit in but can’t help standing out or going against the grain, often feeling alienated.
78. Self-Imposed Martyrdom - Puts themselves in a position of suffering or sacrifice, believing it’s their duty or fate.
79. Idealized Self-Image - Clings to an unrealistic self-concept, struggling to accept their flaws or limitations.
80. Compulsive Honesty - Feels compelled to always tell the truth, even when it’s hurtful or inappropriate.
81. Over-Reliance on Technology - Becomes helpless without modern conveniences, struggling to cope with real-world challenges.
82. Moral Exhibitionism - Shows off their ethics or principles to gain admiration or moral superiority, often insincerely.
83. Perpetual Student Syndrome - Always learning but never applying knowledge, avoiding real-world responsibilities.
84. Emotional Osmosis - Absorbs others’ emotions so deeply that they lose track of their own feelings or needs.
85. Pathological Frugality - So obsessed with saving money or resources that they miss out on life’s joys or opportunities.
86. Obsessive Self-Improvement - Never satisfied with themselves, constantly striving for unattainable perfection.
87. False Modesty - Pretends to be humble while fishing for compliments or validation.
88. Uncontrolled Impulsiveness - Acts on whims or impulses without considering the consequences, leading to chaos or regret.
89. Chronic Hedonism - Lives only for pleasure, often to the detriment of their long-term happiness or relationships.
90. Overly Abstract Thinking - So focused on big ideas or concepts that they lose touch with reality or practical concerns.
91. Romantic Idealism - Believes in a perfect love or relationship, often leading to disappointment or disillusionment.
92. Selective Altruism - Only helps others when it suits them, often ignoring those who don’t fit their criteria.
93. Pathological Shyness - So shy or introverted that they struggle to function in social situations, often missing out on opportunities.
94. Moral Superiority - Believes they are more ethical or righteous than others, often looking down on those who don’t share their views.
95. Over-identification with a Role - Sees themselves only as their job, family role, or social identity, losing sight of their true self.
96. Chronic Complaining - Constantly finds something to complain about, often bringing others down or creating a negative atmosphere.
97. Faux Stoicism - Pretends to be emotionally strong or unaffected, while secretly struggling with deep emotional turmoil.
98. Addiction to Drama - Thrives on conflict or chaos, often creating drama where there is none to feel alive or important.
99. Obsessive Collecting - Gathers possessions, knowledge, or experiences obsessively, often unable to let go or move on.
100. Inflexible Optimism - Refuses to acknowledge negative possibilities, often unprepared for setbacks or challenges.
101. Contrarianism - Always takes the opposite stance just to challenge others, often without genuine conviction.
102. Emotional Projection - Attributes their own feelings or issues onto others, often leading to misunderstandings.
103. Compulsive Heroism - Feels the need to be seen as heroic or brave, even in situations that don’t call for it.
104. Spiritual Narcissism - Uses spirituality as a way to feel superior to others or to avoid personal flaws.
105. Self-Defeating Humor - Constantly makes jokes at their own expense, using humor to deflect serious issues.
106. Identity Fluidity - Frequently changes their identity or beliefs to fit in with different groups, losing a sense of true self.
107. Overattachment to the Past - Can’t move on from past successes or failures, allowing them to define their present.
108. Pseudointellectualism - Pretends to know more than they do, using complex language or ideas to impress others.
109. Overidealization of Youth - Places youth on a pedestal, often dismissing the value of experience or aging.
110. Refusal to Accept Help - Rejects assistance from others, believing they must do everything on their own, even to their detriment.
111. Emotional Manipulation - Uses guilt, pity, or other emotions to control or influence others, often without realizing it.
112. Inconsistent Values - Holds contradictory beliefs or morals, leading to confusion or hypocrisy in their actions.
113. Obsession with Legacy - So focused on how they’ll be remembered that they neglect the present or make unwise choices.
114. Excessive Eagerness to Please - Goes out of their way to make others happy, often at the cost of their own needs or principles.
115. Emotionally Guarded - Builds walls around their feelings, making it difficult for others to get close or understand them.
116. Selective Memory - Chooses to remember events in a way that favors them, often distorting the truth.
117. Overattachment to Authority - Relies heavily on rules or leaders, struggling to make decisions independently or question authority.
118. Fear of Vulnerability - Avoids showing weakness or asking for help, leading to isolation or burnout.
119. Intellectual Detachment - Approaches everything with cold logic, often ignoring the emotional or human side of situations.
120. Obsession with Control - Needs to control every aspect of their life and others’, often leading to stress or strained relationships.
BONUS🔥
CREATE YOUR CHARACTERS WITH DEPTH TODAY! Don't settle for shallow, forgettable characters—elevate your writing with the ultimate character worksheet.
This template isn't just about characters; it’s your all-in-one tool for worldbuilding, writer planning from idea generation to publishing, roadmaps, synced databases, and series planning. It’s the ultimate character and worldbuilding bible you’ve been waiting for.
Available now! Use code "F4NTASY" to get an incredible 75% off! This offer won’t last long, so grab yours now before it’s too late!
