Creating Characters Who Read as Real–a writing workshop with Allison Alsup

Stories hinge on credible, compelling characters. It doesn’t matter the genre—most contemporary narratives demand character-driven storylines. And for those writing personal essays, there’s no escaping the “I” on the page. Whether based in the writer’s real life experience or completely invented, intimacy and psychological depth are what modern readers crave. The rub is not all details are created equal. Knowing every tidbit of your character’s life doesn’t necessarily advance the story and may end up obscuring it.

This workshop’s goal is to hone in those character essentials that make the people on our pages feel real and true. We’ll explore the kinds of targeted questions writers can—and should–ask long before reaching the end of a draft. Through discussion, short excerpts and hands on exercises, we’ll explore key aspects of character development, including: the core relationship between character and conflict, what makes for a “telling” detail,” and the fundamental role of backstory and secondary characters.

Writers can expect to leave with character-building strategies applicable to any future narrative as well as a deeply rendered character profile for their current project. (They can also expect to learn a heck of a lot by hearing the ideas of other participants.)

All levels, from absolute newbie to experienced writers, and all prose genres welcome. Participants with either works in progress or well-considered ideas for narratives will most benefit from our session.