Stories are about characters, and what thrills me the most about storytelling is uncovering and exposing the real person hiding inside the character at the beginning of the narrative and revealing who that person really is.

When the story starts, the character exists behind a mask, living under a veil of pretense. This facade is often so ingrained in their daily life that they may not even realize they are wearing it. Often, they have settled comfortably into their routine, appearing content or perhaps pretending to be content, but deep down, they may wrestle with unacknowledged feelings of dissatisfaction or yearning. They have constructed a reality that feels familiar, though it may not reflect their genuine identity.

As the plot unfolds, the author must show that the character's true identity remains hidden, not just from others but potentially from themselves as well. The role of the writer, then, is to craft a series of challenges, conflicts, or transformative experiences that serve as catalysts for the character's self-discovery.

Through these tests and trials, the character is presented with opportunities that ultimately lead them to peel back the layers their fake persona. As they navigate these experiences, it leads to uncomfortable emotions, suppressed memories, or unexplored desires that challenge the comfort of their established identity. The journey of self-revelation often involves grappling with fears, insecurities, and the repercussions of their past choices.

The beauty of taking your character through this journey is that by the end of the story, the character will have undergone needed growth, emerging more authentically and fully realized as an individual.

Ultimately, the writer's job is to facilitate this gradual unveiling process, ensuring the audience is engaged with the character's journey towards self-awareness and acceptance of their true self.

To further immerse yourself in these concepts and learn the rules of revealing character, watch the video by clicking below.