One of the most fundamental elements of story writing is establishing compelling characters, It is paramount that readers can visualise and relate to them on some level. Otherwise, what is the point of even writing stories?
As authors, we want to give our audience something to aspire to or even offer a reflection of their lives, but providing solutions to similar problems they have encountered, So, what does make a compelling protagonist? Is there a particular formula or is it merely all inside the mind of the writer? Although I cannot speak for every author, I can nonetheless provide you with my own insight on the matter.
When I decided to write this particular narrative, there were three things I was certain of. Firstly, my main protagonist was going to be a detective. Secondly, he would be the target of a conspiracy. Thirdly, Gary Oldman would play him in the adaptation. (Okay. maybe #3 is a stretch too far ahead just ahead just yet, but that is my end game). It actually helped me design the character better with Gary in mind because I was able to dive deep into the qualities I know Gary would bring. So, let’s examine this now.
What do I want this character to represent? Well, he is a widowed father of eleven year old twin daughters; mentally tormented by memories of his wife’s murder and is burdened with guilt over his sister and brother -in -law’s disappearances. Consequently, he suffers from insomnia and is at logger heads with his eldest nephew who blames him for his parents’ peril.
Okay, so you may be thinking this is far too much pressure and anguish to place on one individual. Perhaps it is, but is he not a compelling character? Is this not someone you want to know more about and see if he can conquer his demons? Furthermore, could you visualise Gary delivering a stellar performance in this role? I certainly could. Therefore, I have zero regrets in creating this protagonist around Gary’s innate talents. Irrespective of whether this novel gets adapted for the screen, this method keeps me focused.
So, now that we know a little about him, the next step is to figure out his journey. How is he going to overcome his demons? Is he willing to do this? Is there something that could put him over the edge and prevent him from fulling this role? Of course, but that would be quite a bleak story. No, E.H. is a man of strong moral fibre who has been cruelly targeted by someone close to him for their own personal revenge. He can come through this, but like everyone he needs help in doing so. This is where supporting characters enter the mix (but that is another blog post).
BookNutsey 