02 May Book Review of Characters & Viewpoint
Characters & Viewpoint: A Journey Through Narrative Depth
When I first picked up Characters & Viewpoint by Orson Scott Card, I was drawn in by the promise of crafting compelling characters—those lifelines of any narrative that keep readers engaged. As a writer and avid reader, I’ve always believed that well-constructed characters are indeed the heartbeat of a story. Card, renowned for his masterful storytelling in Ender’s Game, does not disappoint; he invites us into a comprehensive guide that feels both personal and enlightening.
Unlocking Character Creation
The book is neatly divided into three parts: Invention, Construction, and Representation of Characters. Each section brims with invaluable insights that cater to different stages of character development. The first part, “Invention of Characters,” resonated with me deeply. Card emphasizes the importance of understanding our characters beyond their physical descriptions. He instructs us to dig into their motivations, reputations, relationships, and even their personal quirks—to conduct a sort of ‘interview’ with them, exploring their inner workings. This approach serves not just as a method, but as a heartfelt invitation to connect with our characters on a deeper level.
I fondly remember one exercise where Card suggests asking our characters, “What is your greatest fear?” The depth this question unearthed in my own characters was astonishing. It reminded me that our characters should evolve, presenting different facets depending on their social contexts—much like we do in our daily lives.
The Art of Character Construction
Moving into the section on “Construction of Characters,” Card discusses the factors influencing characterization: Medium, Mystery, Psychology, and Event. The clarity with which he explains these elements made it easy for me to visualize how they interact within my own narratives. For instance, Card illustrates how The Lord of the Rings leans heavily on the Event factor—pushing the plot forward through a series of monumental happenings—while works like Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas delve deeply into character psychology. This nuanced understanding allows writers to tailor their character development to fit the narrative they wish to tell.
As I absorbed these insights, I began to realize how vital it is for stories to maintain a consistent focus. Card beautifully demonstrates this through examples, emphasizing how a narrative that shifts focus too abruptly can lose its engagement. This observation sparked a lightbulb moment for me; I began to see where my own storytelling had faltered and how I could refine it.
Narrative Representation
In the final section, “Representing Characters,” Card delves into narrative voice and point of view. His exploration of the different perspectives—from first-person intimacy to the broader strokes of third-person omniscience—allowed me to conceptualize how these choices shape our readers’ connection to characters. The reminder that the first impression of a character can make or break a narrative was particularly striking. It’s like meeting someone new; the initial spark (or lack thereof) often dictates the course of that relationship.
Final Thoughts
Characters & Viewpoint is not just a tool for writers; it’s an extension of the craft, encouraging us to embrace the complexities of our characters. For anyone serious about delving into characterization—whether you’re a novice or a seasoned writer—this book is a treasure trove of wisdom. Card’s examples are relevant and relatable, breathing life into his advice.
I found myself reflecting on my own writing journey as I read, feeling inspired and equipped to create richer, more multidimensional characters. The warmth and authenticity of Card’s voice made it an enjoyable read, one I’m certainly planning to revisit.
In conclusion, if you’ve ever grappled with character development or simply wish to deepen your understanding of narrative craft, give Characters & Viewpoint a chance. You’ll likely find it echoing in your writing, guiding your characters to life as you navigate through the worlds you create. Happy writing!
