Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness. — Anne Frank
Light gives us direction, but it also dictates what we can see. Our deeply held (and often unspoken) truths and firmly entrenched habits act the same way. They guide us, but they also keep us from seeing alternatives.
Characters live their lives based on principles, habits, and beliefs, too, and wthout introspection, writers risk simply dropping their characters into a world ruled by the writer’s unexamined truths.
What are the truths that drive your day to day actions or inactions? What are the emotional undercurrents–life experiences, educational facts, daily rituals, relational habits, social beliefs, and religious faith–that propel you through time and space?
Now imagine that you’ve neglected to notice some important information. How would that change things?
What if dragging ourselves out of bed at 5am to exercise isn’t the ideal way to start a day? Maybe staying up late to learn the constellations or photographing the city’s nightlife will bring us more fulfillment and better sleep?
What if we stop protecting ourselves from discomfort? Maybe letting friends introduce us to new people, even if they’re ‘not our type,’ will bring some laughs, good conversation, friendship, and perhaps even a few tingles over time?
What if the most affordable and effective solution to homelessness isn’t more shelters or tent camp displacements? Maybe it’s direct cash payments and a free studio apartment?
What if we didn’t start our day with a bowl of cereal or a bagel and schmeer? Maybe last night’s leftovers will give us more energy?
You get the idea.
List 5 of your deeply held beliefs or habits. Write a positive character sketch which has the opposite of them. Where could you use that character? When and where would you have a hard time using that character? Why? What belief or fear gets in your way?
What deeply held beliefs or habits does your character hold? How can you challenge these in the story? Is there a time that one of their beliefs/habits leads them into greater trouble?