Tag: characterization

A Problematic Potion (100 Word Fantasy Story)

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 1 Comment

Once upon a time, there was a wizard charged with a task, to brew a potion of invisibility.

With a pixie by his side, he traveled the realm for ingredients.

A dragon scale, from a mountain’s peak. Two cups of water from the mermaid lagoon. Nectar from the lemon blossom plant. One four-leaf clover.

Once all components were complied, brewed, and sparked with magic, the potion was complete.

Pride in his chest, he sampled the final product at his workshop.

The wizard reeled back, spitting it out. The concoction tasted like sour milk. His feet turned invisible.  

The pixie laughed.

Write with heart.

Love,

Lady Jabberwocky

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A Crash Course in In Media Res – Hook Readers Instantly with this Trick!

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 2 Comments

Hello Writer Bugs!

Today, I’m sharing with you a writing trick that will hook readers from the first sentence. Yes, you heard right. Grab the audience’s attention instantly with In Media Res. Confused by this Latin phrase? Don’t worry, I’m simplifying this narrative technique. This is the crash course in In Media Res.

Short and Sweet Advice for Writers – Start in the Middle (In ...

What is In Media Res?

Glad you asked! The term In Media Res translates to “In the midst of things.” This means a story hits the ground running and begins in the middle of a scene. Forget about lengthy exposition or flowery description. Start in the middle a conversation or an action sequence. Later on, you can drip feed readers information and backstory through flashbacks and dialogue.

Why does this trick work? Because it piques the audience’s curiosity. And that’s any writer’s goal, to catch the reader’s interest. It makes them feel like they have to catch up with the plot to learn more about the characters and their world. Think Alice chasing after the white rabbit.

No Context? No Bueno.

Yes, there is a wrong way of applying this writing technique. If you start a story too late, and don’t give any bits of context on characters and setting, the audience will be lost and confused. They wont’ keep reading if they have no idea what’s going on.

Be smart about when and where you choose to start the opening scene. You want to hook readers while giving them enough context to keep their attention. A fine line on balance on, I know. However, when you use in media res right, it can turn your story into a page turner.

Stories that Start In Media Res

Want to see this technique in action? Check out some of these attention grabbing titles.

In media res can be a powerful tool in your writer arsenal. And if done right, you’ll have your readers on the edge of their seats.

What are your favorite stories that jump right into the action? And what do you think of this writing technique? Have you used in media res before? Lemme know in the comments. As always, I’d love to hear from you guys.

Stay safe and keep writing!

— Lady Jabberwocky

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For Better, For Worse (100 Word Horror Story)

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 6 Comments

The front door slams shut. He kisses his wife, breathless.

The sound of groaning fills the space. Skin slick with sweat.

“Promise, babe, next Valentine’s Day will be much more romantic.” He panted.

She smirks, her wedding band caked in blood. “I’m holding you to it.”

Outside, shuffling in the woods. The smell of rotten flesh.

“After this is all over.” He grabs an axe.

Thump-thump on the door as soulless eyes peer inside.

“For better, for worse.” She aims a cross bow.

A decomposing arm smashes through the window, shattering the glass.

The undead hoard surrounds the desolate cabin.

Wanted to write a romance for Valentine’s day but was also in the mood to write about a zombie apocalypse. Had fun writing around with both genres in this story.

Write with heart,

Lady Jabberwocky

3 Tips on Writing the Love Interest

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 3 Comments

Happy Valentine’s Day, Writer Bees!

Love is in the air, even in fiction. No matter the genre, a love interest can add complexity to both the overall plotline and to other characters.

If your main character is feeling the love, then check out these helpful tips on creating a character’s sweetheart.

Experiment with Chemistry

Love at first sight doesn’t make for an interesting story. Maybe attraction at first sight, sure. For the most part, feelings must develop gradually, not instantly. No matter what stage in the relationship, take the time to build up and explore the couple’s chemistry. A great lover could become an even greater foil for another character. Also, keep in mind the kind of relationships your characters would pursue. What’s their sexual preference? Are they interested in one night stands and flings, or are they looking for a committed relationship? OR are they even looking for love in the first place? These factors will dictate how their romantic relationship lives and breathes over the course of the story.

Writing Flawed Characters

Look, how many hot billionaires with six packs are there in the world? Don’t create a character that is the ideal partner. Give them flaws. Real flaws. Consider physical and personality quirks. Are they short and stubborn? Are they pessimistic with a crooked nose? Be creative but be careful making a completely unlikeable character. Find that balance. A romantic interest shouldn’t just be a cookie cutter person. They must be able to stand on their own, as a complete character. Their entire world cannot revolve around another person. Whether the love interest is a main character or a side character, at the end of the day, readers want complex and relatable characters.

The Big Bad Conflict

No romance is perfect. Every couple has their struggles and challenges. With an internal or external battle, conflict is needed so things aren’t so lovey-dovey. Are there outside forces, such as society, race, war, that are straining their bond? Maybe one is afraid of commitment? Give the couple obstacles that they may or may not overcome together. Set the stakes high to ensure the problem is meaningful enough to the characters. Make this conflict an integral piece of the plot line. That way, the relationship won’t seem forced or out of place.

Bottom line, love isn’t always rainbows and butterflies, and that’s a good thing. Embrace the whirlwind and write a real romance.

What’s your advice on writing love interests? Lemme know in the comments! And Happy Valentine’s day everybody!

Write with Heart,

Lady Jabberwocky

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5 Types of Narrators in Fiction Writing Explained

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 7 Comments

Hello Writer Bees!

Today, we are going back to basics in story writing. What point of view is best for your WIP? Let’s break down the different types of narrators in a story.

First Person Narrator

Pronouns: I, my, me.

Example: The Narrator from Moby Dick. ” Call me Ishmael.”

First Person is a very personal perspective. A first person narrator tells the story from their point of view. The reader has a front row seat to this character’s thoughts and feelings as they go about their day. This type of narrator can be either a main character or a distant observer. By using the first person narrative, it puts a limit to what the narrator, and the reader, knows and doesn’t know. For example, first person narrators don’t know what is plotted on behind closed doors, hindering their insight.

Second Person Narrator

Pronouns: You, Your.

Example: If I’m remembering correctly, Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern has some chapters using second person that are utterly enchanting.

A Second Person Narrator talks directly to the audience, enveloping the reader into the story itself. Think of it like playing a choose your own adventure game, where the reader is a character. “You do this, you see that.” This one is quite rare in fiction; It’s more for technical writing. It’s difficult to perfect, but not impossible, so don’t be discouraged to experiment with this style. This narrating style makes you feel like you are part of this fictional world.

Third Person Narrator (Limited)

Pronouns: He, she, they.

Third person narration gives the writer more freedom to move around, follow multiple characters and explore multiple rooms of the house, so to speak. Usually, the third person narrator isn’t an actual character at all. It’s a more objective viewpoint. Keep in mind, this may lead to a lack of connection with the reader. The audience is privy to more information about the plot, information the main characters may not even be aware of, but not the characters personal thoughts and feelings.

Omniscient Narrator

Usually third person. Uses ‘he, she, they’ pronouns.

With this one, the narrator knows everything, from feelings to inner thoughts. Imagine an all knowing, all seeing God-like being, looking down at the world. They have no stake in the story, they simply retell the story to the reader. Omniscient narrators know everything, from plot events to character’s motives to unspoken thoughts. Some would argue that it’s the author themselves, telling the story. I’ll let you be the judge.

Unreliable Narrator

Usually first person, usually undependable.

Some narrators just can’t be trusted, can they? The viewpoint of this narrator is very biased, clouded by their own -possibly flawed – judgement. Other characters in the story may not be described accurately because of the narrator’s own perception. Certain events can be skewed. Even the narrator himself could be not what he appears to be

Example: Check out the narrator from The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie. He may know more about the murder than he is letting on. Hint Hint.

Choose Your Narrator Wisely

Really take the time to think about whom the narrator will be and how well they can tell your/their story. It’s important for the reader to really connect and be engaged with the character or viewpoint chosen. Think of it like this, the narrator is the reader’s vehicle as they ride the rollercoaster that is your story.

If you are struggling to decide which narrative you want to use, try multiple styles. No harm in experimenting. It’s like reading an essay for school out loud before handing it in. You’ll know what fits your story best when you read it.

How did you decide the narrator for your story or WIP? What is your favorite kind of narrator to read? Talk to me in the comments.

Write with Heart,

Lady Jabberwocky

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Tips on Writing for the Anti Hero

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 4 Comments

Hello Writer bees!

Happy New Year everyone!

We’re starting off 2023 with some writing tips. And funny enough, this topic was inspired by my non-writer boyfriend. For weeks, he has been singing – loudly and off-key, mind you – that Taylor Swift song, ‘Anti Hero’. So much so, I told him “Maybe I should write a post about Anti-Heroes.” To which he replied, “I would love that!”

So today, we are rooting – I mean writing – for the Anti-Hero.

What is an Anti-Hero?

Yes, we all love a knight in shining armor. We all love a Superman. But not every protagonist is a golden hero with a pure heart. In simple terms, an Anti-Hero is a type of protagonist character in a story. However, they don’t look like your traditional hero. Lacking the traits typically associated with heroes, an anti-hero is complex and flawed. Their actions are morally ambiguous.

Non-So-Heroic Traits

It’s all in the characterization of the anti-hero, what traits you give them. Consider this, if a conventional hero is selfless and a team player, the anti-hero would be more self-interested and an outcast. While their intentions may be noble, their morals and actions may not be. Ends justify the means, right? They will do whatever is needed to reach a goal, including making a few “bad” decisions. Also to note, when building characters, really dig into their backstory and their internal conflicts. What do they struggle with? How has their personal history impacted their personality?

Anti-Heroes and Antagonists

Keep in mind, there’s a fine line between the anti-hero and the antagonist. Yes, the anti-hero will engage in actions that may seem villainous and corrupt. However, they cannot cross into villain territory. They can toe the line of evil, but never be as evil is the antagonist. If it’s for the greater good, this morally misguided protagonist will take whatever action they deem necessary to accomplish their mission. For the anti-hero, being a bad guy doesn’t make them the bad guy. Did I get that Wreck-It Ralph quote right?

Foils

Think of it like this, every Batman needs a Robin. A good anti-hero needs a good foil, someone who breaks down the hero’s tough exterior and shows another side of them. The foil – whether that be a sidekick or love interest or family member- shines light on the anti-hero’s redeeming qualities. Supporting characters can be an asset to an anti-hero’s characterization.

All in all, you should create a hero that the audience will want to root for.

Who are some of your favorite anti-heroes? Lemme know in the comments!

Write with heart.

Love,

Lady Jabberwocky

Romance Among Thieves (100 Word Love Story)

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 2 Comments

“Darling, I’d give you the world, If I could.” He kissed her gloved knuckles.

 Her eyes rolled. “Always the charmer.”

The two masked lovers cloaked in darkness. A city in midnight. She cut one perfect circle into the glass ceiling.

“It’s true, I’d give you my heart on a platter…” He crooned as he shimmied down the rope.

She shushed him. “Be quiet or we’ll be caught.”

“And a diamond on your pretty finger.”

On a pedestal, a massive diamond sparkled behind lasers.

He snatched the jewel. Security alarms blared.

Ruby lips smiled. “I love you too, idiot, now hurry!”

Write with heart.

Love,

Lady Jabberwocky

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A Different Kind of Happiness (100 Word Story)

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 3 Comments

“I scroll through social media, and they’re all married, in great shape, with nice jobs, nice houses. Some even have kids,” She curls into herself, holding a school reunion invitation. “And then there’s me, single with a minimum wage job and muffin top.”

“Not everyone’s lives are as perfect as they appear,” He assures her. “Do not compare yourself.”

She sighs. “I know but, they all look so happy, and I…” Her fingers graze the golden lamp.

Grinning, the genie leans forward. “What is it you desire?”

“I don’t want all that. I wish for…. A different kind of happiness.”

Remember, mental health matters above all else.

Write with heart.

Love,

Lady Jabberwocky

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The Secret Behind Writing Meaningful Character Deaths

~ ladyjabberwocky ~ 6 Comments

Hello Writer Bees!

Hope you all are doing well and staying creative.

With spooky season right around the corner, and with that recent episode of critical role, I’ve been thinking about character deaths lately. Morbid, I know. But realistically, not every character makes it to the end of the story alive. So today, let’s talk about the key to writing meaningful death scene.

For the Story

In fiction, death must serve a purpose, whether to the overall plot or to the characters themselves.

A single character’s death could be used as a major catalyst in the events of a story and the lives of other characters. In terms of the narrative, character death can raise the stakes. It’s a wakeup call to both the cast and the audience that lives are at stake. That not every character may survive in the end. By raising the stake in this way, the underlying tension and suspense will grow, and readers will be hanging on the edge of their seats.

Apart from building suspense, a character’s death can also add to the atmosphere and exposition. A death scene can set the mood for the story, in practically any genre. Remember the writing rule, ‘Show, Don’t Tell‘, and save yourself from writing an info-dump. If the fictional world is plagued with war or a virus, then bodies hitting the ground is an effective, and incredibly terrifying, image. Use a character’s death as a tool for creating the mood of a setting.

For the Characters

For other characters specifically, another character’s death can change how they go forward in their lives. Characters should be written like real life people. Death often comes will a strong emotional response.. When someone dies, it can change one’s outlook or view on their world, other people or ever themselves. For better or for worse. It can alter the course of their future actions.

However, be careful using this as a plot device as it can lean towards cliché. Often times, killing one to motivate another can feel like an overused or stale occurrence. Think about it. How many movies involve the main character’s love interest dying and as a result, the hero rises and is motivated to avenge their lover? And unfortunately, because of this, women are sometimes written off as expendable and not as fully developed characters. Big no-no, writer bees.

Final Thoughts

Next time you think about killing your darlings, take a minute and consider this. What purpose does this character’s death serve? How with this impact the story and other characters? Really considering the why can be a game changer in your writing.

How do you go about writing a character’s death scene? What character in fiction crushed you when they died? Talk to me in the comments!

Write with heart.

Love,

Lady Jabberwocky.