Location: Coming soon
An Exploration of Character with Sophia Nash and Diane Whiteside
Jane Eyre. Jo March. Anne Shirley. When people recall their favorite novels, one of the first things that come to mind often is how much they loved the main character or characters. What would Gone With the Wind have been like without Scarlett, Rhett, Melanie and Ashley?
The October 2008 WRW meeting will explore how we as writers can improve our characterization and develop the type of characters that will resonate with readers and make our novels beloved by many. Two, multi-published, WRW authors – Sophia Nash and Diane Whiteside – will share their insights on characterization and how it can be used to deepen the romance.
10:15 – 12:15
Creating Unforgettable Characters
Presented by Sophia Nash
Elizabeth Bennett & Mr. Darcy, Heathcliff & Catherine, Lucy & Ricky … Do you remember every detail of their stories, or do you vividly remember the characters? Get beyond the basics to breathe life into the people populating your pages. Each workshop participant will dwelve beneath the veneer of one or two characters in the manuscript to add depth. The group will work on the birth and growth of a character, use of plot, and character growth arcs. In addition, dialogue and deep point of view will be discussed.
2:00 – 4:00
Star-Crossed: Creating Romantic Characterization and Conflict through Astrology
A Workshop by Diane Whiteside
Star crossed lovers – have you ever wondered where that phrase came from? Do you know why a lion and a ram are one of the all-time great romantic couples? Or a crab and a bull? Have you ever wanted to try a different reason for why your hero and heroine fight with each other? Astrology is a great tool for developing characters with innate conflicts, no matter what you think of your own horoscope.
This workshop is based on one simple principle: make your characters fall in love with folks who astrologers call a bad bet. It will include:
A quick review of the signs, including their most important romantic characteristics.
A quick review of the key elements in a person’s horoscope. This workshop will focus on the sun signs, although moon and rising signs are also very important. For romances, the latter are what often create the ambiguities about compatibility.
A detailed discussion of how to select which signs your hero and heroine fall under.
A chart summarizing some thoughts on astrological compatibility, or the lack thereof.
Some examples for how to use this in your work. On the large scale, it affects issues like love at first sight, soul mate, internal versus external conflict, etc. It can also impact lovemaking, housekeeping, career choices, musical tastes, and more.
Examples will be provided, primarily from my works since I know the characters’ horoscopes.
Questions will be encouraged throughout.
