HOW TO CREATE A PROTAGONIST

Last week, I wrote about how using a partial sentence prompt as a scene or opening for a short story can boost a writer’s creativity. However, it never ceases to amaze me how a simple, open-ended prompt can become the springboard for a life story, essay, or poem.

A prompt can even turn into a story that leads your main character, the protagonist, to any number of unexpected endings.

Isn’t that what creative writing is all about — the journey a writer takes a reader on? That journey — your story — is vastly enriched when it is populated with believable characters.

Let’s start with the protagonist. It is, after all, their story. Others play supporting roles, but this guy (or gal) takes center stage.

Their motivation — their ultimate goal of getting what they want most — is what the story is about. However, the protagonist’s success is determined by their decisions along the way. These decisions will move the story forward through pivotal scenes.

But first, we have to create and get to know our protagonist — from the inside out. 

Think about it. As the writer, your protagonist can be any nationality you choose. They can be of any height or weight. They can be university educated or street savvy. They may be married, single, divorced, or widowed, too. Honest and trustworthy, or maybe not.

They may also have a quirky habit they either can’t or don’t want to break; aren’t aware of it, or do their best to hide it from others. As the writer, you decide who they will become.

Now it’s your turn. Grab a pen and give this a try.

Create a protagonist. Write about their likes, dislikes, quirks, nickname, education, age, etc. You know, those things on the surface that make them tick. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Lots of them. 

—Does their name fit? For example, Susie Q wouldn’t be an appropriate nickname for a
    corporate Wall Street CEO. But why not?
—Why do they dislike fish? Does it remind them of a disappointment or loss?
—Ask as many what-if questions as you can. What if… they’re in an accident? A coma? An
    abusive relationship? Live in a treehouse?

Now, move in closer. Ask questions that penetrate the character’s facade, their protective shell.

—What are they most afraid of? Snakes, elevators, or being alone?
—What provokes them into a full-on rage? What melts their heart?
—What’s most important to them — their fortune, family, or maybe their reputation?
—What do they stand to lose if they fail?

                                           Congrats! You’re on a roll — don’t stop now!

Be sure to download your complimentary copy of Know Your Characters, a go-to resource that will help you create characters that leap from the page.

Get your copy of KNOW YOUR CHARACTERS here.

I’d love to hear about the protagonists you’ve created. So could you send me an email and let me know?