Creative writing: Casting characters

Have you ever noticed how some characters seem to just pop out of the book? We think about them when we’re at work, driving, doing the dishes? They never seem to leave us because they feel so real. Some characters are known by what they do, how they treat others, how they make us feel, even the innuendos they bring to the table.

I love to create characters who are either interesting or incredibly nasty (or both). There are, of course, many shades in between. There is something else to consider too. What excites me might irritate your socks off!

Even in plot-lead stories, characters still need to draw the reader, so creating someone they want to spend time with will be key. Most readers read for escapism or entertainment so giving them a story that could do both has got to be our priority.  

Part of my character creation process is a kind of casting session. In my mind I audition them like I’m casting for a movie mostly because that’s how I see my stories play out. You might say I ‘interview’ them where the priority is understanding who they are at their core. Without knowing this, using them effectively would be tricky. Worse than that, it could create unnecessary obstacles later.

In the interview, I’ll note how they sit, their choice of clothing, tone of voice etc. Questions might include how would they react if someone whacked into their brand new car then drove off? Or how they would feel if someone mugged their elderly mother? Or what they might do if they had irrefutable proof that their neighbour is doing something seriously criminal.

Their answers could range from different levels rage or fury to turning a blind eye. These answers will give you a foundation upon which to build your character. I’d also ask lighter questions too. Something like how a surprise party might make them feel, what kinds of clothes do they prefer, and what money means to them.

Another way I discover more is by wandering alone around their house. It’s all still in my imagination so no legal boundaries are crossed. I would wander freely through the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, looking in their drawers, cupboards etc for personal items like wallets, photos, diaries, maybe even a safe.

It sounds invasive but becoming a detective when you’re creating a character can really add colour and depth. Much of this won’t be included in the story, but it will help me shape the character.

Researching personality types is also helpful. In my last novel, Dream State, one character was a sociopath. I found several trusted sites that gave me all the answers I needed. It was quite an eye-opener to discover what was involved and how brilliantly his behaviour would fit into my story. My search history is also a bit of an adventure but that’s probably a stone probably best left unturned!

Character traits are brilliant to play with but keep in mind that just because you’ve made someone a bit apathetic doesn’t mean they remain unenthusiastic. Perhaps later they stumble on something that motivates them beyond belief and bounce around with hyperactivity – all because they’ve found their life’s calling. What a character arc that could be!

My penultimate tip is to watch how other characters behave around them. Perhaps there will be instant sparks (both the good and the bad kind). Think about your characters as if they are real people. What might they do in their down time if they were a real person? Remember though, that nobody is perfect and this can be reflected in your character’s behaviour and dialogue.

My final tip? Remember that while they may look good (or bad) outside, inside might be another story. Imagine your character is a sparkly box, bow and all, but inside there’s nothing. Readers are precious so give them a treat by creating characters with depth, just like a regular person.

You may have heard the cheeky comment, ‘That’s what she said.’? If so, think about how your characters speak as this will give the reader (and other characters) a good idea of who they’re dealing with. Regional words and international accents help colour dialogue. Placing them in other parts of the world could allow you to learn how they cope with different cultures. Will they fit in or stand out for the wrong reasons?

Indulge in some free writing to see how your character fares with different situations, then try it again from another character’s perspective. Playing with words, characters, and point of view can be a great investment for future stories.

Why not create your own exercises too? Finding ways that are fun as well as fruitful gets the best from these exercises.

A Guide to Creative Writing by SJ Banham is published by Pen & Sword (£14.99)

Here's more advice on character creation from leading author Ross Raisin

Want more writing advice? Don't miss the chance to sign up for regular prompts, inspiration, practical guides and writing opportunities, emailed directly to your inbox!