Finding your character’s ‘voice’ can be a difficult task. Each character needs a different voice because each character is different. Think of your own family. You and your siblings don’t talk the same. Husbands and wives don’t talk the same. Best friends don’t talk the same. Nor should your characters.
One character, if they are molded after you, can have your voice but that’s it, only one.
My characters are British, Victorian British and each have a different voice. In my book Eliza Jane, Eliza was emulated after me a bit and responded to things the way I would have responded and yet I needed her reponses to be in the language of the times.
So, how do you find your character’s voice? You’ve heard me say this before. Have coffee and conversation with them. Sounds silly? Perhaps. But the more you do this exercise, the easier it gets, the less silly it sounds and the more you get inside your character’s head. This method also helps with creating backstories.
So, how do you get started? Think back to your childhood. Did you have an imaginary friend? Think of all the adventures you did together. The dialogues you had. I’ll bet if you think hard enough, he/she/it did not sound like you. Mine didn’t. Mine was more confident that I was. Spoke with assuredness and grace.
Once you’ve done that, imagine your character sitting with you. Ask them about their favorite things. Find out what makes them tick. What makes them laugh. And ask questions specific to your genre. For example, if you are writing a romance, what do they look for in a partner, have them explain past trust issues, etc.
This will make it easier for you to find your character’s voice, the way they speak and react. It will come across as natural to your readers and they will either cheer or boo your character whichever your intent is.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with this exercise. Take your character as far back as you need to. Doesn’t mean it all goes in your story. You will learn the difference. But this does give your character a 3D personality and a distinctive voice.
Next week: Point of View = Part I
Until Next Time…
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