Who's that Girl?

Selected Song: WHO'S THAT GIRL by Madonna

Characters have purpose in every story, but if their author doesn't give them direction or even traits that help to define who he or she is, then that character will be a silhouette. Active is definitely better than passive, in most cases, and the character needs to have drive, as they strive toward the goal that likely, and should, evades them. It's in this pursuit where the character gains and builds upon who they are and what they'll become by the end of the story. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish one character from another due to each sharing similar attributes, however, at least one or two these should be exclusive to that character, therefore adding to the dynamic of the plot and throughout the story.

Of course, each character will be set apart by physical aspects, but these are not the qualities that make them who they are. Supporting characters might help in shaping the main character(s), but it's the specific and recognizable strengths and weaknesses that will ultimately prove who that person is and what they are and aren't willing to do to reach their goal(s). This is part of the character dynamic that compels the reader to continue reading, knowing that the author has done the job of bringing to life characters who can be trusted to be who they are, and not a copy of those around them. Giving a quirk or habit is the start toward shaping a character's personality and motivations that will grow into a more complex individual, preparing them for awaiting challenges.

The question to ask when creating and building a character is who are they and how best can they be portrayed. As the topic title asks, 'Who's that Girl?' and what's she about? Everything else will follow, and hopefully, so will the readers.

Who's That Girl - Madonna