Writing Tip — Reveal Characters Through Setting

June 22, 2009 by
Filed under: Writing Tip 

Today’s writing tip is about building character. Following the adage, show, don’t tell, setting description presents many opportunities for writers to delve into the minds of their characters.

I’ve always believed through many moves through the years that plants and pictures make a new home. Add a few indoor planters and you add life and color to a new place. Not only do the plants add life, but they provide details about the occupant. Let’s be honest; plants do take some effort. Clearly, someone with planter or five in the house, with live plants, is someone who is devoted to their upkeep. That says a lot about that person.

Now think of the possibilities. Not only do we have a character that enjoys plants, but what about the degree of care? I seem to recall that a popular belief once was that talking to plants helped them. Certainly, this is something that you can run with. How about a character so obsessed with her plants that she has an unnatural devotion to them?  She values them more than people. She talks to them constantly.  Your nutty character is complete.

The opportunities don’t end there. The plants themselves can add to a setting. Imagine a few garden planters, filled with colorful peonies or daisies. Never mind the deadly nightshade planted among them. A red herring or a clue? You decide.

Taking the time to develop your setting gives you many chances to explore characters and plot. Taking the time to populate your setting carefully can enhance your story and give it some new life.

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