A military character
by Koda
(Tennessee)
Question: How would you write a story that is based on a character that just came home from the war, especially when you know next to nothing about someone coming home from a war?
Answer: There are several short answers to your question that spring to mind...
1. Why are you writing about a character you have no knowledge about? Many writers, especially those of literary fiction, would say you have no business doing so. (I don't necessarily agree with this point of view, since it dismisses all fantasy and science fiction, plus a good deal of historical fiction. Nonetheless, they have a point about the importance of authenticity.)
2. Find out about what it's like to be a soldier coming home from war. Talk to veterans, if you can. Do some research on the subject. If your story is set in the past, you may be able to read diaries and letters written by veterans of past wars. Talk to a research librarian about this.
3. Use your imagination. This does not always work, but it can yield tremendous results if you are determined. If possible, try to combine it with some research or interviews, because there are areas where your imagination may fail you.
Bear in mind that while it's one thing to create a story that seems realistic to someone who is not a veteran, it is much harder to write a story that veterans will find authentic. But regardless of your audience, you want to create a story that will have the "ring of truth."
Also, keep in mind that you are not writing about the generic experience of all veterans, but the unique, specific experience of one fictional veteran in particular. So you can make up some things.
Best of luck.
- Home
- Character Questions
- A military character
Search this site...
|
||
| site search by freefind |
100% Human Generated Content!
All
articles on this website were written by a human being -- one possessed of flaws and limitations, but also with a personal perspective and a desire to help fellow
writers. No article on this site was written by or with the aid of artificial intelligence (AI).
Popular Articles
Mini-Course
Never be stuck for a great story idea again! This online mini-course will show you how to create simple ideas for original characters and build a plot around each character that contains the essential elements needed for a compelling story.
Recent Postings
-
Trauma And Superpowers: How Do They Connect?
Question: I'm currently writing a story where MC1 can control darkness, MC2 can control plants, and MC3 can control machines. I want them to experience -
Using the actual names of people and places in memoir...
Question: I am writing a memoir of my years as a teacher. If I want to use real names, what is the protocol/requirement for getting permission? (Changing -
How to Write a Thriller
See how to write a thriller story -- the essential traits and plot structure.
"I've read more than fifty books on writing, writing novels, etc., but your website has the most useful and practical guidance. Now that I understand how a novel is structured, I will rewrite mine, confident that it will be a more interesting novel." - Lloyd Edwards
"Thanks to your "Create a Plot Outline in 8 Easy Steps," I was able to take a story that I simply just fooled around with and went willy nilly all over, into a clearly defined, intriguing battle where two characters fight to keep their relationship intact, and try to find a balance in control of themselves and their lives. Thanks to you, I'm not ashamed of the poor organization of my writing." - Nommanic Ragus
"I am so glad I found your site. It has helped me in so many ways, and has given me more confidence about myself and my work. Thank you for making this valuable resource, for me and my fellow writers. Perhaps you'll hear about me someday...I'll owe it to you." - Ruth, Milton, U.S.A.
"I never knew what to do with all the characters in my head, but since discovering Dramatica I am writing again in my spare time. Thank you for making this available. Yes, it is a bit complex, and it does take time, but I love it because it works." - Colin Shoeman
"I came across your website by chance. It is a plethora of
knowledge, written in a simplistic way to help aspiring writers. I
truly appreciate all of the information you have provided to help me
successfully (relative term) write my novel. Thank you very much!" - Leo T. Rollins
"I
can honestly say that this is the first website that is really helpful.
You manage to answer complex questions in relatively short articles and
with really intelligent answers. Thank you for taking the time to write
these articles and sharing them so generously." - Chrystelle Nash
"...had no idea that a simple click would give me such a wealth of valuable information. The site not only offered extremely clear and helpful instructions but was a very enjoyable read as well. The education from your wonderful site has made me a better writer and your words have inspired me to get back to work on my novel. I wish to give you a heartfelt thanks for How to Write a Book Now, sir." -- Mike Chiero