#CharacterDevelopment

[s-soulwriter]

Things Real People Do in Dialogue (For Your Next Story)

Okay, let’s be real—dialogue can make or break a scene. You want your characters to sound natural, like actual humans talking, not robots reading a script. So, how do you write dialogue that feels real without it turning into a mess of awkward pauses and “ums”? Here’s a little cheat sheet of what real people actually do when they talk (and you can totally steal these for your next story):

1. People Interrupt Each Other All the Time In real conversations, nobody waits for the perfect moment to speak. We interrupt, cut each other off, and finish each other's sentences. Throw in some overlaps or interruptions in your dialogue to make it feel more dynamic and less like a rehearsed play.

2. They Don’t Always Say What They Mean Real people are masters of dodging. They’ll say one thing but mean something totally different (hello, passive-aggressive banter). Or they’ll just avoid the question entirely. Let your characters be vague, sarcastic, or just plain evasive sometimes—it makes their conversations feel more layered.

3. People Trail Off... We don’t always finish our sentences. Sometimes we just... stop talking because we assume the other person gets what we’re trying to say. Use that in your dialogue! Let a sentence trail off into nothing. It adds realism and shows the comfort (or awkwardness) between characters.

4. Repeating Words Is Normal In real life, people repeat words when they’re excited, nervous, or trying to make a point. It’s not a sign of bad writing—it’s how we talk. Let your characters get a little repetitive now and then. It adds a rhythm to their speech that feels more genuine.

5. Fillers Are Your Friends People say "um," "uh," "like," "you know," all the time. Not every character needs to sound polished or poetic. Sprinkle in some filler words where it makes sense, especially if the character is nervous or thinking on their feet.

6. Not Everyone Speaks in Complete Sentences Sometimes, people just throw out fragments instead of complete sentences, especially when emotions are high. Short, choppy dialogue can convey tension or excitement. Instead of saying “I really think we need to talk about this,” try “We need to talk. Now.”

7. Body Language Is Part of the Conversation Real people don’t just communicate with words; they use facial expressions, gestures, and body language. When your characters are talking, think about what they’re doing—are they fidgeting? Smiling? Crossing their arms? Those little actions can add a lot of subtext to the dialogue without needing extra words.

8. Awkward Silences Are Golden People don’t talk non-stop. Sometimes, they stop mid-conversation to think, or because things just got weird. Don’t be afraid to add a beat of awkward silence, a long pause, or a meaningful look between characters. It can say more than words.

9. People Talk Over Themselves When They're Nervous When we’re anxious, we tend to talk too fast, go back to rephrase what we just said, or add unnecessary details. If your character’s nervous, let them ramble a bit or correct themselves. It’s a great way to show their internal state through dialogue.

10. Inside Jokes and Shared History Real people have history. Sometimes they reference something that happened off-page, or they share an inside joke only they get. This makes your dialogue feel lived-in and shows that your characters have a life beyond the scene. Throw in a callback to something earlier, or a joke only two characters understand.

11. No One Explains Everything People leave stuff out. We assume the person we’re talking to knows what we’re talking about, so we skip over background details. Instead of having your character explain everything for the reader’s benefit, let some things go unsaid. It’ll feel more natural—and trust your reader to keep up!

12. Characters Have Different Voices Real people don’t all talk the same way. Your characters shouldn’t either! Pay attention to their unique quirks—does one character use slang? Does another speak more formally? Maybe someone’s always cutting people off while another is super polite. Give them different voices and patterns of speech so their dialogue feels authentic to them.

13. People Change the Subject In real life, conversations don’t always stay on track. People get sidetracked, jump to random topics, or avoid certain subjects altogether. If your characters are uncomfortable or trying to dodge a question, let them awkwardly change the subject or ramble to fill the space.

14. Reactions Aren’t Always Immediate People don’t always respond right away. They pause, they think, they hesitate. Sometimes they don’t know what to say, and that delay can speak volumes. Give your characters a moment to process before they respond—it’ll make the conversation feel more natural.

Important note: Please don’t use all of these tips in one dialogue at once.

[2soulscollide]

extensive list of character traits

hello hello, it's me! here's an extensive list of traits. note: if you're developing a character, check out this free workbook which has a complete character sheet :D

good character traits:

understanding

courageous

tenacious

resourceful

confident

diligent

persevering

empathetic

caring

respectful

patient

dependable

trustworthy

adaptable

charismatic

creative

innovative

encouraging

gracious

forgiving

generous

inquisitive

knowledgeable

modest

noble

optimistic

passionate

practical

principled

reliable

self-disciplined

selfless

strong-willed

thoughtful

wise

assertive

bold

decisive

dignified

disciplined

enthusiastic

faithful

friendly

humorous

imaginative

insightful

intuitive

open-minded

persuasive

practical

proactive

rational

self-confident

self-sufficient

sensible

sympathetic

tactful

team player

trusting

unassuming

visionary

well-rounded

bad character traits:

self-centered

rude

disrespectful

impulsive

greedy

arrogant

dishonest

manipulative

lazy

stubborn

moody

pessimistic

judgmental

aggressive

reckless

inconsiderate

paranoid

insecure

materialistic

irrational

vengeful

deceitful

disloyal

boastful

closed-minded

condescending

impatient

intolerant

narcissistic

obsessive

possessive

short-tempered

sneaky

suspicious

unpredictable

unreliable

wasteful

weak-willed

withdrawn

agonizing

cynical

possessive

aloof

intimidating

sadistic

bitter

passive-aggressive

evasive

procrastinating

irritable

dismissive

disrespectful

confrontational

overbearing

domineering

pompous

biased

inflexible

impetuous

misanthropic

overcritical

arrogant

hope this was useful! have a nice day <3

[thewriteadviceforwriters]

Character Development in Different Genres: Tailoring Personalities to Fit Your Story's Needs | Part I of Character Development Series

When it comes to writing, one of the most exciting and challenging aspects is creating compelling characters. Whether you're penning a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, a gripping fantasy, or a thought-provoking literary novel, the characters you bring to life play a pivotal role in captivating your readers. However, not all characters are created equal, and tailoring their personalities to fit the specific requirements of your chosen genre is essential for a successful and engaging story.

So, how can you ensure that your characters shine in the context of their genre? Let's embark on an insightful journey into the art of character development across different literary landscapes.

The Foundation of Genre-Specific Characters

Before delving into the intricacies of character development, it's crucial to understand that each genre comes with its own set of expectations and conventions. While a hard-boiled detective might thrive in a gritty crime thriller, they might feel out of place in a whimsical fantasy world. Therefore, the first step in crafting genre-specific characters is immersing yourself in the nuances and tone of the genre itself.

For instance, in a fast-paced action-adventure novel, the protagonist is often characterized by their resourcefulness, courage, and determination in the face of danger. On the other hand, a character in a cozy mystery may possess a keen eye for detail, a sharp wit, and a knack for uncovering secrets amidst the charm of a small town. By understanding the core elements of the genre, you can lay a sturdy foundation for building characters that resonate with the expectations of your readers.

Investigating Character Traits Across Genres

Let's take a closer look at how character traits can be tailored to suit different genres:

1. Adventure/Thriller:

Courage and Resilience: Characters in this genre often face high-stakes challenges and adrenaline-pumping situations. Their ability to confront danger with courage and resilience is a defining trait.

Quick Thinking: Whether escaping a treacherous trap or outsmarting a cunning adversary, characters in adventure and thriller novels are often marked by their ability to think on their feet.

2. Romance:

Emotional Depth: Characters in romance novels thrive on emotional connections. Their vulnerabilities, hopes, and desires form the cornerstone of their personality.

Charm and Passion: A touch of charisma and passion can elevate romantic protagonists, making them irresistible to both their love interests and readers.

3. Fantasy:

Imagination and Wonder: In the realms of fantasy, characters embody boundless imagination and a sense of wonder. Their belief in the extraordinary and the magical defines their essence.

Epic Journeys and Destinies: From chosen heroes to enigmatic wanderers, characters in fantasy often carry the weight of epic destinies and monumental quests.

4. Mystery:

Curiosity and Intellect: Mystery protagonists are marked by their insatiable curiosity and sharp intellect. Their inquisitive nature drives them to uncover the truth hidden within the enigmatic plots of their stories.

Intrigue and Suspicion: Characters in mystery novels often harbor secrets of their own, adding layers of intrigue and suspicion to their personas.

Crafting Characters with Genre-Specific Flair

Now that we've glimpsed into the distinctive traits that define characters across genres, it's time to infuse our characters with that genre-specific flair. Here are some creative strategies to tailor your characters to fit the unique demands of different genres:

1. Know Your Readers:

Before sculpting your characters, get to know your intended audience. Understanding their expectations and preferences within a particular genre can guide your character development process.

2. Subverting Tropes:

While adhering to genre conventions is important, don't shy away from subverting tropes to inject fresh and unexpected elements into your characters. This can breathe new life into well-trodden genres.

3. Embracing Authenticity:

No matter the genre, authentic and relatable characters are the cornerstone of captivating storytelling. Infuse your characters with genuine emotions and experiences that resonate with your readers.

4. Reflecting the Setting:

Characters are not isolated entities; they are shaped by the worlds they inhabit. Reflect the essence of the genre's setting in your characters' mannerisms, speech, and worldview.

5. Dynamic Character Arcs:

Consider how your characters' arcs can align with the thematic essence of the genre. From personal growth in literary fiction to valiant heroism in fantasy, tailor their journeys to harmonize with the genre's spirit.

The Power of Balancing Familiarity and Innovation

While it's essential to cater to the expectations of your chosen genre, it's equally vital to infuse your characters with a spark of innovation. Readers are drawn to characters who feel both familiar and refreshingly unique. By blending genre-specific traits with innovative twists, you can create characters that stand out while remaining rooted in the essence of their genre.

Unleashing Genre-Defying Characters

In the ever-expanding universe of literature, the art of character development is a dynamic and thrilling endeavor. As you embark on the journey of crafting characters for different genres, remember to immerse yourself in the heart of each genre, cultivate characters with depth and resonance, and balance convention with innovation.

Ultimately, the characters you create have the potential to transcend genres, captivating readers across a diverse spectrum of storytelling. So, unleash your imagination, breathe life into your characters, and watch as they navigate the rich tapestries of diverse genres, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

So, fellow writers, as you embark on your next literary odyssey, may your characters be as diverse as the genres they inhabit, and may their stories resonate with readers far and wide.

Happy writing! Warm regards, Ren T.

[storytellerslense]

JJ Maybank Character Analysis

Why a pairing of Kiara and JJ would hardly work under real-life circumstances

Screenwriters love messy romantic storylines because drama sells and keeps us all on the edge of our seats. Complicated relationships filled with "OMG, did that just happen?" moments push characters to grow and show off their deeper sides, making them more relatable. Plus, they mirror our own love life dramas (or lack thereof) and give us an escape from reality. The whole "will they or won’t they" vibe keeps us binge-watching season after season, completely invested in their rollercoaster romance.

But let's get real for a sec—these chaotic love stories shouldn't be your blueprint for a real-life relationship.

That being said, it might not be the popular opinion, but Kiara would be the worst match for JJ. In real life, their relationship would quickly go downhill, and here's why:

JJ's been crushing on Kiara since Season 1. His feelings have been solid, even while she was off exploring things with John B. and Pope even though she often treated him badly, commenting on almost all of his actions with sarcasm and disregard.

There are a lot of examples, especially in the first two seasons, where Kiara is being disrespectful and sarcastic towards JJ. It actually seems like she doesn't care for him at all

That's why Kiara’s sudden interest in JJ, after her flings with the other guys, raises some eyebrows. Is she really into JJ, or is this about rebelling against her parents or wanting a “fixer-upper” project?

JJ and Kiara would make a perfect example for a toxic relationship

Kiara's and JJ's core personalities and backgrounds clash in fundamental ways. JJ, with his ADHD-like tendencies, impulsive nature, and carefree, rebellious attitude, often acts without thinking, seeking thrills and living in the moment. This behavior is in stark contrast to Kiara’s strong morals, rule-following disposition, and the disciplined upbringing she received from her wealthy household and good education. While JJ's spontaneity might seem exciting, it conflicts with Kiara’s structured approach to life.

Kiara is feeding into JJ's insecurities

She tends to be judgmental, especially towards behaviors that deviate from her values, which can make it hard for her to fully understand or accept JJ’s way of coping with his challenges.

JJ grew up in an abusive household with a neglectful and violent father. This messed up his self-esteem, emotional health, and understanding of relationships. He’s conditioned to accept unhealthy dynamics and put others first, often at his own expense.

Kiara, on the other hand, had a cushy, stable upbringing with overprotective parents. This gave her strong convictions and a clear sense of right and wrong but also left her with high expectations and a need to maintain a certain image.

Kiara’s strong will and idealism can sometimes make her judgmental and inflexible, especially toward those who don't see things her way.

Opposites attract: the more differences, the better the story

She might struggle to fully get the depth of JJ's trauma and how it shapes his behavior. His impulsiveness and reckless behavior, driven by a need to survive his trauma, often clash with Kiara's moral convictions. His actions aren't about seeking admiration but about finding safety and acceptance.

JJ's and Kiara's values are constantly clashing

JJ’s low self-esteem, need for validation, and history of emotional neglect make him vulnerable to falling into the same victim role he’s known all his life. Kiara’s strong personality and occasional self-righteous streak could unintentionally exploit JJ’s compulsive selflessness and lack of boundaries.

Is there really more to the chemistry between JJ and Kiara other than just physical attraction?

So, unless JJ takes some serious time for personal growth, gets to know himself and his boundaries, and learns what healthy relationships actually look like, jumping into a romance with Kiara too soon is basically setting himself up to fall right back into the emotional traps he’s trying to escape.

So, what do you think about all this? Would you disagree or do you have another constellation in mind that would suit a character like JJ better (Sarah?). Let me know your thoughts!

[ellowynthenotking]

Totally fixed several plotholes in one swoop by adding a little bit of rep to the main character, I don't know why I didn't think of it before!

[plotandelegy]

P1 -Types of Scarcity in Post-Apocalyptic Fiction: A Comprehensive Guide to Survival Elements in Dystopian Worlds

Understanding the Types of Scarcity

Material Resources: First, start with food, water, fuel, and ammo. Once you have the basics, move to less commonly thought-about things like batteries, clothing, scrap metal, and wood.

Skills and Knowledge: Doctors, engineers, survival experts, and mechanics would be some people worth knowing or being in a post-apocalyptic world. What if there were none?

Emotional Resources: Once the world goes to hell, trust and community become resources. Surviving sometimes means getting along with others; you'll want all parties to mean it. Getting fed to a zombie so someone can escape sounds like no fun. 

Information: Who are you going to let hold the map for you? Things can get harder on your team if it gets stolen, left behind, or destroyed. In a world without GPS, information is a resource; let's face it, you must trust its handler. 

This is part one of a five-part writing guide to post-apocalyptic scarcity. Tune in next time for a more in-depth breakdown of scarcity and who makes the decisions? Not me, that's for sure. I'd probably be the one used as zombie bait first.

-Indigo Everly

Want more advice? Check out my other articles!

[beaglebabe1]

Irene Monogatari -

I found the first season of Don Chuck Monogatari[1975] on YT. I watched it as a kid, it aired in Canada only in French in the 80’s and early 90’s. I decided to draw Irene in that style, kinda…Heh

[kapow-comics-inc]

Night alone

Just because someone wanted to leave negative comments on my last ship picture mahahaha!

Dick x Jason

[characterhub-com]

📢 Poll Time 📊

[noobiestnoober]

Shadows of Destiny (Part II) – Blood Ties (Kai x Reader)

This is a sequel to Shadows of Destiny. Read the Part 1 here >>>

Shadows of Destiny (Kai x Reader)

I hope you enjoy the story <3

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Jo and Alaric were having a happy, celebratory wedding surrounded by loved ones. Everyone involved desired a fresh start and a peaceful moment. However, tranquility proved to be fragile and easily disrupted.

With wrath and resentment in his eyes, Kai Parker dashed into the ceremony. He launched his strike before the Gemini Coven could respond, with magic sparking through the air.

Trying to escape the lethal energy bursts, guests shrieked and dispersed. His twin, Jo, eyes wide with shock and resolve, stood her ground. Shaking, she begged, "Kai, stop this! Why are you doing this?!"

But Kai had no brotherly affection in his distorted smile. Ignoring Jo, he said, "You should know by now. I never quit on what I started."

As he lifted his hand to cast another attack, the hall doors flung open. Y/N staggered in with her gaze fixed on Kai, bruised, and worn out. Her willpower, pushing her on despite the agony, had allowed her to break free from her restraints.

She cried, "Kai!" as she hurried herself between him and Jo, "Enough already!"

As Kai saw Y/N, he paused, his gaze closing in. In a low, and deadly tone he muttered, "You… How come you were free?"

Y/N sprang for him, attempting to throw him off balance before he could react. Kai moved more quickly. With his power blazing, he turned and launched her across the room with his magic. Y/N flew into tables strewn across the floor. She flew so hard into them that her lungs were afflicted with formidable force and coughed up blood. All bloods were stained on her clothes.

Y/N’s besties Elena and Caroline raced to her aid, "No, Y/N!"

Fearful, Caroline sobbed, “Don’t die on us, please.”

Damon, who had developed a close bond with Y/N during their time in the Prison World, stepped closer and unleashed a torrent of anger. He yelled, "You messed with the wrong person, Kai."

Kai had little time to react when Damon tackled him, but with a flick of his wrist, he sent Damon hurling across the room and into a set of chairs.

“Damon, get out of here!” Kai yelled, “This is between me and the rest of the others.”

With a sneer on his lips, Damon got up to his feet. He spat, "Like hell it is," but Elena held his arm and stopped him before he could strike again.

“Damon, no,” she cried out, “You are going to make things worse.”

As he watched them, Kai's face faltered, something flickering in his eyes when his gaze turned to Y/N.

"Y/N, you shouldn't have come here," he added in a near whisper, “You should have stayed away.”

Y/N clung to her side as she staggered to her feet, "I could never let you do this," she exclaimed, "You're not a monster, Kai. There is no need to do this.”

Kai's fists shook with hardly controlled power, his mouth tightening.

"You persist in defying me even after I provided you with the chance to behave properly!" This was mostly targeted at his coven members, especially the former Gemini coven leader, Joshua Parker. He spat, "You must be so desperate to die." Fearful, the guests crowded together.

Elena moved forward, her face resolute. Despite the chaos surrounding her, Elena uttered firmly, "Please, Kai. Do not do this. Let everyone go.”

Kai's hold on his power became stronger, and for a split second, it appeared as though he would let loose everything. But Y/N's shaky voice broke the strain.

She whispered, "Kai," as she fixes her gaze on him, “Avoid turning into the monster they believe you are.”

He looked at her, his face tense between wrath and something else… something… human.

"You don't understand," he continued, his voice trembling, “I have to finish this. This is the only option."

Ignoring her wounds, Y/N protested, "No, it's not," and moved closer, “You are free to take another course. We can work out another solution together."

Kai's gaze wavered, and the fury gradually faded. His voice hardly rose above a whisper, "I don't know if I can," he murmured.

Stretching out her hands to him, Y/N said, "You can. You do not have to be alone.”

The guests' labored breathing in the entire room was the sole sound for a long, anxious time. Then, very gradually, the enchantment at Kai's fingertips vanished. With his face tense, he lowered his hand.

"You should be thankful," he says at last directed towards his coven, breaking the silence in the room, his voice breaking, “You get to live another day.”

Kai turned to go, but as he saw Y/N's strength waning, he hurried to her side, and lifted her into his arms. The guests watched in horror as Kai carried Y/N away; her blood smeared his clothing. Her eyes opened, a mixture of relief and bewilderment meeting his. Weakly whispering, "Kai, what are you doing?"

"Saving you," he said, sounding almost compassionate now, "Y/N, I can’t lose you. No, not in this way."

Kai disappeared, dragging Y/N into the unknown after one last, conflicted look at Elena, Caroline, and Damon.

______________________________________________________________

As night descended, remorse swept over Y/N. She would never have let Kai leave if she had known what Bonnie, Damon, and Elena were up to. Their plan was to trick Kai and keep him in another prison world. She had not acted on her intuition that something was amiss. She heard bits of their talk, their low voices, and their hurried murmurs just before Kai and the others went to the prison world where the Heretics were imprisoned. She disregarded her inner intuition, convinced that they were acting morally. She wished she had done something—anything—to stop this chaos made by Kai.

"I'm sorry, Kai," she said in a regretful and painful whisper, "I should have known. I should have stopped them."

“It's too late for that now,” he said, “Maybe, though, we can work things out together.”

The darkness drew closer, and Y/N nodded feebly. She held onto the belief that there was someplace, someway, a chance to put things right, to keep Kai from the darkness that threatened to swallow him, and to keep herself from the sorrow that was eating at her.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Read Part 3 here >>>>

Shadows of Destiny (Part III) - Redemption's Edge (Kai x Reader)

[aifanfictions]

Write a love story about (y/n) taking the hunter exam along with Gon and Killua and Gittarackur (Illumi Zoldick in disguise) finds (y/n) very interresting and slowly falls in love with her powers, her looks and her character

Whispers of Shadows: An Enigmatic Love

In a world where extraordinary abilities were wielded by those who dared to dream, an enchanting love story was poised to unfold. (Y/N), a spirited and determined individual, had embarked on a life-altering journey by undertaking a prestigious examination. Alongside two remarkable companions, Gon and Killua, they ventured into a realm of trials and tribulations that would push their limits, both physically and emotionally. Unbeknownst to them, their path was soon to intersect with an enigmatic figure, Gittarackur, who concealed his true identity as Illumi Zoldyck.

(Y/N) had long harbored the dream of becoming a Hunter, a title that promised boundless opportunities and adventures. Their resolve was unwavering, their spirit unyielding, and the Hunter Exam was the initial step towards realizing their aspirations. Amidst the numerous aspirants, Gon and Killua shone as exceptional talents. Their camaraderie, forged through shared challenges and victories, grew stronger with every trial. It was amidst these tests that (Y/N) not only discovered the allure of the hunt but also found themselves drawn to the captivating personalities of Gon and Killua.

As days turned into weeks and trials morphed into friendships, a shadowy presence lingered in the background. Gittarackur, an adept assassin disguised as an examinee, had been assigned a mission to observe and gather information on (Y/N). However, his mission evolved into something more complex and compelling, as he found himself inexplicably drawn to (Y/N)'s powers, appearance, and character.

Gittarackur, from his concealed vantage point, watched (Y/N) with unwavering fascination. He admired their grace in combat, their resolve in the face of adversity, and the loyalty they held for their friends, Gon and Killua. Every moment spent observing (Y/N) only deepened his intrigue.

As days turned to weeks, and weeks to months, Gittarackur's fascination evolved into something he hadn't anticipated—love. It wasn't just (Y/N)'s powers or physical attributes that enamored him; it was the essence of their character, their unyielding spirit, and the depth of their emotions that captivated him.

One evening, in a quiet moment away from the hustle of the Hunter Exam, Gittarackur found himself alone with (Y/N) in a secluded corner of their lodgings. It was a rare respite, and he seized the opportunity to engage in conversation.

"You possess an extraordinary aura," Gittarackur remarked, his voice tinged with admiration. "Your abilities are truly remarkable, and your determination is unmatched."

(Y/N) smiled, humbled by the compliment. "Thank you, Gittarackur. But my journey here wouldn't have been possible without the unwavering support of my friends, Gon and Killua."

Gittarackur's gaze lingered on (Y/N), his fascination growing more profound by the day. "There's something about you that transcends mere talent and determination. You exude a unique charm—one that is difficult to define."

As their eyes met, a peculiar connection seemed to form—a thread of unspoken understanding and uncharted emotions that hung in the air. Gittarackur's fascination had grown into something deeper, something he couldn't ignore any longer.

Amidst the trials and chaos of the Hunter Exam, Gittarackur struggled to come to terms with his newfound emotions. His mission, once straightforward, had transformed into a labyrinth of conflicting desires, torn between his duty and the affection he felt for (Y/N).

One fateful night, with the Hunter Exam reaching its culmination, Gittarackur decided it was time to reveal his true identity to (Y/N). He exposed the depth of his deception, confessing not only to his mission but also to his burgeoning feelings—a love that had taken root in the shadows and grown into a profound affection.

"(Y/N), my mission was to observe and gather information about you," Gittarackur began, his voice laden with emotion. "But it has become more than that. I've fallen for you—your powers, your character, your very being. I know it's complicated, but I couldn't keep the truth hidden any longer."

(Y/N) listened, their heart a tumultuous sea of emotions. They were torn between the shock of the revelation and the complexity of their own feelings. In that moment, they realized that beneath Gittarackur's assassin facade, there was a person—a person conflicted and flawed—who had come to cherish their existence.

As the Hunter Exam concluded and (Y/N), Gon, Killua, and Gittarackur embarked on new adventures, their love story became intertwined with the enigmatic world they inhabited—a tale of love and self-discovery amidst the chaos of their extraordinary lives. It was a journey filled with challenges, danger, and the discovery that true love could flourish even in the darkest of shadows.

NOTE! This story was generated by OpenAI

[s-soulwriter]

Writing Angsty Scenes Without Making Them Cringe

Alright, so we all love a good angsty moment, right? That scene where everything feels like it's falling apart, emotions are running high, and your character's world is just burning around them. But… writing those scenes without slipping into "oh no, not this again" territory? Yeah, it can be tricky.

Angst is powerful, no doubt, but it can get cringey fast if you’re not careful. So, how do you make your readers feel the hurt without rolling their eyes at the drama? Here are some thoughts (because we’ve all been there)

1. Keep It Real No one—and I mean no one—has perfectly poetic, life-altering thoughts while they’re in the middle of an emotional meltdown. If your character’s going through it, make sure their reactions feel raw, maybe even messy. Show us their confusion, anger, and fear in a way that makes sense for them. Don’t just throw in a monologue about the meaning of life or have them collapse in a rainstorm. (Unless it’s really necessary. Then, okay, fine, but be careful!)

2. The Little Details Hit Harder Sometimes, it’s the small, unexpected details that pack the biggest punch. Instead of a dramatic sobbing fit, maybe your character’s hands shake as they try to make a cup of tea or they notice a tiny crack in the wall that they never noticed before because they’re spiraling. It’s those little, relatable moments that make the angst feel real, not overdone.

3. Embrace the Quiet Moments It doesn’t always have to be yelling or crying to show that your character is struggling. Silence can be loud. Sometimes it’s the things unsaid that carry the most weight. Maybe your character withdraws, or they’re stuck staring at the ceiling for hours. A pause in the conversation, a long sigh, or a blank stare can be just as gut-wrenching as full-on breakdowns.

4. Avoid the Obvious Clichés (If You Can) Okay, this one’s a bit tricky. It’s not that you can’t ever have rain scenes or broken mirrors (I see you, “symbolism”), but if you’re gonna go there, give it a twist. Maybe instead of staring out a window during a storm, they’re in a brightly lit, overly cheerful room that just doesn’t match how they’re feeling. Play with contrasts. Make the environment work against their mood rather than mirroring it perfectly.

5. Let the Angst Breathe Don’t feel like you need to dump all the angst in one scene. Let it stretch out a bit. Give your characters space to process (or fail to process) over time. A lot of times, readers will feel more for a character who’s quietly unraveling over several chapters than one who explodes all at once. It makes the eventual breakdown hit harder when it does happen.

6. People Are Weird When They’re Hurting They joke at the wrong times. They say things they don’t mean. They shut people out, or they get way too clingy. Don’t be afraid to make your characters react in unexpected or contradictory ways—people do that when they’re feeling too much. Let your characters be complicated, because real people are.

7. Subtle Can Be Stronger Not every angsty scene needs a screaming match or someone running away dramatically. Sometimes, a single line of dialogue or a character’s slight change in expression can hit like a freight train. Try letting things simmer. Hold back when it feels like you should go big, and you might surprise yourself (and your readers) with how much more intense it feels.

[2soulscollide]

[FREE] The Writer's Workbook

Hello hello, it's me! Hope you're doing well.

Today I am announcing a project I've been working on and is finally ready for you guys to download (for free!)

So, what is it, you ask me.

It's a digital WORKBOOK with over 90 pages to help you develop your new novel!

With clear instructions, plenty of examples, and helpful resources, I designed this workbook to be easy to use and accessible for writers of all skill levels. It has plenty of worksheets and templates to help you organize your ideas and plan your novel!

Over 60 exercises

Tips

Worksheets and templates

A comprehensive list of additional resources to help you continue your writing journey

You can download it as a PDF and use it digitally or print it out!

DOWNLOAD IT HERE!!

I hope this is helpful <3 have a nice day

[mamavino]

New Chapter is Up Now!

Zora groaned, slapping a hand on Asta’s head. "You really are an idiot, aren’t you?" he muttered, shaking his head.

Asta’s confusion deepened, frustration rising again. "What? It’s the truth! I saw it with my own eyes."

Nebra sighed, rubbing her temples as if dealing with a particularly annoying child. "Asta, you’ve known Noelle for how many years now? And you still don’t get it?"

"Get what?" Asta snapped, feeling defensive now.

Zora, clearly losing patience, stepped in front of Asta, meeting his gaze directly. "Noelle’s always been in love with you, you blockhead. Why in the world would she suddenly go for some random circus boy? Use your head for once."

💫 New chapter is up! 💫 Things are getting a little more complicated in Enter the Circus, with some honest revelations about Noelle's feelings. 🧐 https://archiveofourown.org/works/55604434/chapters/154361533

[3lix13]

More development from the end of April (for my original characters). Working to get the big sister more youthful & the housecat more of a plumpy furball (like OG Garfield)...

[ellowynthenotking]

Happy STS from the Creators Club! Do you consciously plan the themes in your stories, or do they emerge naturally?

Ooo themes! I love themes!

Thanks for your patience while I thought about this!

It's a bit of both.

I love themes in writing, when you can really see what's important to the writer, where certain things shine through even if they don't mean for them to.

When I write it's a mixture of both. I often choose themes I'd like to explore in my writing consciously, and then sometimes there are themes that sneak in when I don't notice that I explore too.

For my longer project, ZATR I actually built most of the characters with themes they're supposed to represent. Like how Orpheus isn't just a man, he's also grief, some of my characters aren't just themselves, they're also a theme. Gina isn't just a person, she's also scorned fury and obsession. Dora isn't just a person, she's the weight of leadership and faith.

It makes the characters deeper, but it also helps make making subplots quick and easy. Any story Gina features in is going to have at least a subplot focusing on obsession or fury, any story focusing on Dora will focus on faith or leadership. Mixing and matching the characters in the different parts of the series will focus on how the themes interact and reflect, but will also bring about different themes that a mixture of both that might spawn even without my notice.

When I was working on the later part of the outline for the series I was complaining to my friend that I didn't know how I was going to connect the later books with a running theme. They pointed out I already had, something I hadn't even noticed, a theme that connected not only the characters, but the setting, the choices they all made.

It would be spoilers to tell you the theme now, but suffice to say, I wasn't expecting it, but it really made all the difference in the way I looked at the plan I already had.

Themes are important, and while I definitely think writers should intentionally add themes to their writing. I also think that we add ones that are important to us without realizing, and I think those are the kinds of things that bring a reader back to a work or a writer again and again.

This was probably a lot more than you were expecting for the answer, but I admit it's something I love to experiment with in writing and that I love to see in other people's writing.

Thanks for the great question, it was really a thinker!