I attended a writing seminar taught by Robert Dugoni. He’s a bestselling author of police detective mysteries and about 35 people arrived from all over Vancouver Island to hear what he had to say, which turned out to be quite a lot. And it was not only interesting but useful information.
I’ve written a few books now but am still learning and I learned even more on Saturday. Here’s a sampling . When creating a character –
- make him strong, along with other attributes he might need for his role such as leadership, cunning, loyal – all great virtues
- give him an Achilles heel, such as depression, over-stubborn, jealous – any one which will allow him to be vulnerable
- make him believable so the reader can identify with him, but also larger than life so he can be admired
- make him sympathetic, where the reader can identify his fault, not pathetic where the reader can’t relate
But the most compelling part of the workshop was the ending. Dugoni reminded us to enjoy writing, and not to get so caught up in the marketing, readings, production of material that we lose the fun of it. Good words to write by.
To learn more about Robert Dugoni, check out his website at http://www.robertdugoni.com/
Great tips, thanks for sharing. It’s so true, we often get caught up in the business of writing/marketing and forget why we began the journey to begin with, a love of books 🙂
Yes, it was great to get a reminder of that. It helps keep me focused. 🙂
Sylvie
It was a wonderful workshop and nicely summarized, Sylvie.
This was my favorite part:
– make him strong, along with other attributes he might need for his role such as leadership, cunning, loyal – all great virtues
I know. Then he went into – make him vulnerable such as in addicted, mentally ill, jealous.
Very interesting for sure,
Sylvie
I agree, Sylvia. Robert Dugoni is a terrific speaker. I re-read his notes several times. It was exactly what I needed as I attempted find out who my character was.
Hi Alice,
Thanks for dropping by. I made notes too – lots of them! I’ll be consulting as I go,
Sylvie
I agree it was a very worthwhile workshop. Practical.
Hi Anna,
Yes, it was practical in lots of ways. I’m going to have to read more of his books to see how he applies some of this,
Sylvie
Always great to hear about the writing life from a different perspective.HE was a most engaging speaker.
Hi Kathleen,
I agree and when I get a new view of things it helps me move past the tough spots. Lots to learn out there,
Thanks, Sylvie