Nice post. I don't watch many movies, so the characters I visualize when I read are drawn from what the author has given me, and not entertainment figures. I am, perhaps, an atypical reader who doesn't "public figure" associate. I'm currently deep into a rewrite, and your point is very helpful--something I'll keep in mind as I labor on. Thanks.
I'm with you, David, in the limited description camp. And I do find myself with my own mental image of a character that is at odds with what the author sometimes lists physcially (hair color and length for example).
Names and personalities have some influence in how I 'see' characters. I take this into account when I write.
I agree. When I was a younger, more immature writer, I described characters and settings in great detail, but as I've gotten older I've discovered that it isn't necessary. In fact, it can often get in the way. Words tell our stories, but unnecessary words get in the way of it, so I'm trying harder and harder to get out of my own way. Minimal description frees both the writer and the reader to see the world as they want to see it, which I think ultimately makes for a more satisfying experience.
3 comments:
Nice post.
I don't watch many movies, so the characters I visualize when I read are drawn from what the author has given me, and not entertainment figures. I am, perhaps, an atypical reader who doesn't "public figure" associate.
I'm currently deep into a rewrite, and your point is very helpful--something I'll keep in mind as I labor on. Thanks.
I'm with you, David, in the limited description camp. And I do find myself with my own mental image of a character that is at odds with what the author sometimes lists physcially (hair color and length for example).
Names and personalities have some influence in how I 'see' characters. I take this into account when I write.
Interesting post.
I agree. When I was a younger, more immature writer, I described characters and settings in great detail, but as I've gotten older I've discovered that it isn't necessary. In fact, it can often get in the way. Words tell our stories, but unnecessary words get in the way of it, so I'm trying harder and harder to get out of my own way. Minimal description frees both the writer and the reader to see the world as they want to see it, which I think ultimately makes for a more satisfying experience.
Post a Comment