As a writer, I know I’ve mentioned several times before that I was always with writing Modern/Realistic fiction. However, this has changed it seems since I finished my last book “Whispers” which is strictly a paranormal piece. I was going back through the manuscripts that I’d started on and one character in mind came very clear to mind. For those who follow me on Twitter, and on Facebook you have seen me mention him several times, I lovingly and adoringly refer to him as “The Wolf”. Is he named? Yes. Does he have a unique personality? That’s an understatement. But why do I refer to him simply as “The Wolf”. It’s really a series of two different things. The last blog I wrote about was dealing with animal totems. I strongly feel that my animal totem (Amongst three others) would be that of a Wolf. Often times, I can find comfort and strength both in this animal which is why many times you will find several pictures of wolves or wolf related things posted on either my Twitter or Facebook. It’s a friendly face that I can unremarkably find comfort in when comfort is needed. That? And it seems to affect my overall attitude with my writing and personality as I brain storm. But, at any rate back to the point at hand with me and “My Wolf”.
Not only do I feel a connection with this particular character, but an even stronger ambition to really tell his story and to get it out in the open. But in the same instance, writing from an animal’s point of view always seems to be harder than when dealing with a normal human character. Some of the biggest differences I am finding is that they are limited. Animals are extremely limited to what they can and can’t do. Either because they lack the vocalizations and being able to talk with each other. Or, they can’t figure out typical things that normal human characters would be able to find out on how to use almost right away. The biggest example I could share there with you is doors. Opening doors, and going through them. Using weapons is another large one. The only things that these particular characters have are there claws, and the brains that were given to them. But as a writer, I fully embrace the opportunity to take on a challenge like this. Every character in my mind, has the right to tell their story and let themselves be heard where they have fur or fingers everything in my mind has a right to be heard. The other part of this particular challenge is writing from the first person view of an animal. Typically, all of the stories I’ve ever done have revolved around a third person point of view. Though you are still allowed inside of their heads you can clearly hear what they are thinking, opinions, or thoughts on other characters.
I’ve talked a bit with Mrs. Michaels as well to help the wolves communicate a little better without making them entirely human. I’ve got notes on how this can be done, but am also looking into other ways. Being in the first person view of this animal, you find out what they are thinking constantly. They don’t have the advantage of knowing what their enemies are thinking or friends are thinking. To me, that’s harder but the outcomes of the actions are a lot more exciting because of the surprise you feel along with the character as a friend or foe makes themselves onto the scene. You have to go by what the main character is thinking and you start feeling these biases towards these characters because you start relating so well to them. Another thing that has taken some time is doing the research for “The Wolf”. I want it to be somewhat realistic when there are interactions between him and the other wolves in this story. I’ve done a lot of research on pack behaviors, as well as general displays with teeth, tails, and any kind of submissive details. I am very happy that I am not tied to having to do what kind of genre. I think since I finished “Whispers” and the initial conception of it has really helped open the door to a lot of other different options to me as a writer, and shows me how easy it is to branch out and talk with other characters!
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