“The inner machinations of my mind are an enigma.”

Patrick Star (SpongeBob SquarePants)

 

The other day, I had an interesting discussion with some friends about people who are “Not all there.” People who react to life’s events with no concept of reality or consequences. We discussed people who lack any vestige of common sense or who have absolutely no idea what common courtesy means.

What does this have to do with writing?

Glad you asked!

As I listened to my friends giving examples of some of those annoying people in their lives, I realized I was listening with a writer’s ear. I’ve filed away every example they gave into my “potential character” file.

Any novel or short story we write can utilize aggravating characters simply because they exist in real life. These characters will add depth to your storyline. They’ll help flesh out your main character.

If, for example, you need to bring out a particular personality trait in your protagonist, what better way to do so than by the interaction that man/woman has with one of those frustrating members of society?

 

• Want to show your protagonist has patience beyond measure?
  •  Introduce Joe Blow, who never, ever does what he’s supposed to do.
• Need your character to exhibit common sense?
  • Bring in someone who says if they were a millionaire, they’d have surgery on their feet so they could wear “stylish” shoes. Then, have your character say something along the lines of “If you were a millionaire, you could afford to have custom-made shoes instead.” Common sense.

 

Anyway, the point I’m making is that when you’re listening to a conversation, listen with a writer’s ear. Take what you hear and create characters in your head. You don’t need to use them, but it’s always good to practice your art no matter where you find yourself.

It’s why I love crowded rooms or airports or train stations. They’re a goldmine for characters and character descriptions. If you ever find yourself trapped in the cycle of crafting the same dull characters, pause and listen to the world around you. There’s a wealth of genuine inspiration waiting to be discovered—solid gold, ready to breathe life into your creative endeavor.

©Alison Naomi Holt 2025 - All rights reserved