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Printed from https://writing.com/main/newsletters/action/archives/id/1868-.html
Short Stories: August 08, 2007 Issue [#1868]

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Short Stories


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  Edited by: SHERRI GIBSON Author IconMail Icon
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Table of Contents

1. About this Newsletter
2. A Word from our Sponsor
3. Letter from the Editor
4. Editor's Picks
5. A Word from Writing.Com
6. Ask & Answer
7. Removal instructions

About This Newsletter

Have you ever read a story that left you wondering why certain characters are in it and what role he/she plays? Whether it be a bit part or the lead, strong character definition is a must when trying to hold a readers interest. I hope you find these tips helpful. *Exclaim*


Word from our sponsor

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Letter from the editor

*Star* *Star* *Star*Things I look for in a character? Detail. Things like hair and eye coloring, face and body structure, the type of clothing worn, and the nature of all characters in the story. These are essential factors when writing a short story.

Good representation draws a reader into the storyline and gives them a feeling of knowing the characters if they are portrayed well. For example, if you're writing a story with a villainous character, it's crucial to describe him/her to the letter. It's just as important that the writer why the individual turned to a life of crime and violence.

While many feel that only the central characters be well portrayed, I disagree. In depth detail should be given to them, of course, but the others should be defined well too.

"He" and "She" characters are usually lacking in description and tend to bore most readers. Giving them a name makes them easier to relate to.

My advice is focusing on each of your characters just as much as you do the storyline. Draw a reader in by making every character as realistic as possible, even if the tale is one of fantasy. Imagery pulls a reader into a story. Most like to envision the characters they read about. It's not the word count, but the descriptiveness that compels a reader to want to continue reading the tale. Too much can oftentimes be just as damaging to a storyline than too little. *Star* *Star* *Star*


Editor's Picks

*Star* *Star* *Star* *Star* Some excellent examples of good character representation and storylines I found when reviewing. *Bigsmile* {c} *Star* *Star* *Star* *Star*

 Invalid Item Open in new Window.
This item number is not valid.
#1040782 by Not Available.

 The Changeling Open in new Window. (13+)
A young man spends his Christmas Birthday struggling with life, death, sanity, and freedom
#1226741 by Basilides Author IconMail Icon

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The Eye Open in new Window. (18+)
We all have a little devil inside just dying to get out.
#1024765 by W.D.Wilcox Author IconMail Icon

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This item number is not valid.
#1257125 by Not Available.

 Invalid Item Open in new Window.
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#1283688 by Not Available.

 Grandmother's Wall Open in new Window. (E)
Early 1900s pain
#1293925 by dianne Author IconMail Icon

 Spare Me the Details Open in new Window. (13+)
Almost the last thing a mother wants to hear. Flash fiction under 300 words
#1295583 by SueVN Author IconMail Icon

 Invalid Item Open in new Window.
This item number is not valid.
#1264176 by Not Available.

 
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Word from Writing.Com

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Ask & Answer

*Idea*If you know of a writer or a short story contest you would like acknowledged in the newsletter, please feel free to send me your feedback. Keep writing! *Smile*

*Bullet* *Bullet* *Bullet* Don't Be Shy! Write Into This Newsletter! *Bullet* *Bullet* *Bullet*

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