The Basics of Introducing a Character
I wrote this article, which originally appeared on Suite101, on introducing a character in your novel. The Basics of Introducing a Character A Few Main Points For When a Character Steps on the Page Three things to remember when introducing a character, whether the main character or a minor one. Whenever a character makes a “first appearance” in the novel, there are three things a novelist should remember when writing the scene. Create a Strong, Quick First Impression Ideally, the novelist wants the character onstage quickly, without a long paragraph of description. Give a strong first impression without a lot of detail—simply a phrase to anchor the character in the reader’s mind. Here is where a cliché could actually be used, because it’s a quick way to create a colorful impression with few words: “a spunky redhead” or “a one-legged pirate” or “a powerful businessman.” Whatever the writer chooses to create that first impression, make it the most significant aspect of