A clever writer will incorporate memories of events and people in their lives into their fiction. This not only brings a personal quality to their work, but will connect with their readers as well. We may not share the exact memories, but so many life experiences are similar enough that a reader will see your words and think Yeah! I've been there too. I know exactly what this writer is saying! All the while nodding their head as they read.
What kinds of memories can you, as a writer, use? The sky's the limit, my friends! Have you ever worked with the public? Lived in a small town? Then you know what kinds of characters lurk in these places. Use them to your advantage! You don't need to describe them down to the last detail. What stood out most about them? Was it the way they spoke, dressed, a trait? For example, I know a man that when he is thinking, he will pull at his eyebrows. This is a character trait that can be incorporated into your work. Mention once or twice why your character is performing this particular trait and throughout the rest of the story, you won't need to explain. Your reader will know that when this character performs this particular act, that he/she is thinking. Little things like this will make a character believable.
Another use for memories is the memory itself. Everyone has at least one funny, touching, angry or happy story. Take it, play with it a little, give it to your characters and make it part of your work. For example, I recently finished a short story about a couple at the beginning stages of their relationship. As the male lead goes to pick up his date, her younger sister opens the door and begins to grill him. "Are you Sue Ann's boyfriend?" "Are ya'll gonna kiss?" My little sister used to do this kind of thing whenever I brought a new boy home. I thought it would add a bit of humor to the piece, so in it went.
Memories, old and new, pleasant and unpleasant, can add believabilty and life to a piece and its characters. These are those all-important ingredients that connect a writer with his/her audience. Try it! You just may be pleasantly surprised.
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About the Author
Nikola lives and writes in Oklahoma. She is involved with her local Citizen's Police Academy Alumni and Volunteers in Policing. She enjoys reading, scrapbooking and spending time with her two dogs. Nikola is an author on
http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Poetry Contests.
