character development
by Mina
(Bath, Avon)
Question: I am currently writing a book whose protagonist is loosely based on my own experiences. How do I move from autobiography to fiction?
Answer: So you want to take your own experience and base a fictional work on it?
I suggest you start with a brief summary of the story - use the 8 elements of plot to create your summary. (See https://www.how-to-write-a-book-now.com/plot-development.html)
Then ask yourself what one thing you could change to turn it into the kind of story you would enjoy writing.
For instance, you could change...
* the setting (time as well as place)
* the genre (romance, mystery, literary, fantasy, etc.)
* the main character (sex, age, occupation, etc.)
* any other key detail
Create new plot summary with the change. Make a list of questions a stranger could ask about it. Brainstorm possible answers to these questions, and incorporate the answers you like.
Even if you only get part-way through this process, you should have a very different story to work with, that still retains something of the original.
From then on, develop the story just as you would any other work of fiction.
|
||
| site search by freefind |
Recent Postings
-
Internal conflict without external conflict
Jan 27, 19 08:46 PM
I have developed characters, their personalities, motivations, flaws, wants, needs - I know exactly what their internal conflict should be. The problem
-
Which is worse?
Jan 05, 19 07:28 PM
Question: Which is the better plot decision: To have a character achieve their goal knowing full well that it will kill them and then having the character
"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
