Should I Be Creating Original Characters?

Creating original characters can be both a daunting and rewarding process. If you are feeling uncertain about diving into this creative endeavor, consider the following points to help guide your decision and approach.

Understanding Your Preferences

Reflect on what aspects of character creation you find most enjoyable. Are you more inclined to write fanfiction, where you can build on existing worlds and characters? Or do you prefer exploring new, uncharted territory?

Experimentation

Try different methods of creating original characters. Start by sketching out their backstories, personalities, and motivations. Sometimes approaching the process from a different angle can spark creativity and inspire you in ways you didn't expect.

Writing Prompts

Utilize writing prompts to stimulate your imagination. These prompts can help you think outside the box and develop characters in unique scenarios, pushing you to explore your creative boundaries.

Feedback and Community

Share your ideas with friends or writing groups. Seeking feedback can provide new perspectives on your characters and highlight aspects you might not have noticed. This collaborative approach can also be incredibly beneficial for your self-improvement as a writer.

Practicing Character Creation

Like any skill, character creation improves with practice. Even if you feel stuck initially, keep trying and experimenting. You might be surprised at the characters that come to life with persistence and dedication.

Exploring Other Creatives

Consider the creative advantages of collaborative efforts. Japan's collaborative artists in manga demonstrate the power of working together and sharing credit fairly. Reflect on the collaborative nature of Western comics and how it has evolved over time.

Most original characters, despite their names, are often derivative to some extent. Not all resonate with us, and that's perfectly fine. What matters is your connection to the character and the story you want to tell.

Defining Your Goals

What is your ultimate goal in developing a character? Is it solely about characterization, or do you include elements such as gender, sexuality, relationships, upbringing, religious preferences, and more? Recognize that these details can be incredibly boring to you, and that's okay. Characters often take on lives of their own, and they may not care what their creator thinks about them—they are what they are.

Decide whether you want to write down their story or let it simmer for a while. Some characters just enjoy a period of development before their stories are ready. Remember, as Gaiman would say, 'write it; get it done; fini.'

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to create original characters is deeply personal. If you find it challenging or unappealing, that's perfectly valid. There are numerous other ways to express your creativity. Everyone has their unique path, and the key is finding what resonates with you.