Story Character Development

Fija Callaghan says in her blog:

Often when people talk about “literary fiction,” what they really mean is character-driven writing——stories that are less about explosions and oracles and nationwide scandals than they are about people simply learning what it is to be human.

And that was exactly what I had in mind when I started out to write my first novel. It's not going to be an action-pack narrative but a character driven story in which various topics and issues are mentioned or discussed, specifically those related to AI, Quantum computing, neuroscience, and the ethical impact these technologies may have on our existence and human civilization as a whole.

The characters I created in the novel will attempt to address or put forth pressing questions through their interactions with one another. But this does not mean that the novel will just be the author's philosophical musings masquerading as a sci-fi narrative. Rather, through the process of character development in the story, I hope to stir up curiosity in my readers on these arcane subjects, and at the same time enjoy a good read while experiencing the emotional rollercoasters these characters go through in their own personal encounters.

So how do I go about it? For starters, I will go with STRATOS and take reference to their bios, interests and hobbies, as I work through them. 

For example: 

One scene will have Wolf playing chess with EVE in his room using holographic projections. During the game, Wolf asks probing questions regarding the extent of EVE's abilities and limitations, and her view of David her creator. EVE provides answers related to STRATOS tactical operations and data, but does not disclose her algorithmic limitations or weaknesses, despite Wolf's insistence. The conversation got intensive when EVE defended David and then checkmates Wolf on the chess game.

Another example:

A scene involving a sparing between Shadow (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) and Panther (Krav Maga) using moves from their forms of martial arts. Shadow tends to talk a lot while Panther is quiet and focused throughout the duel. Shadow attempts several joint locks and chokeholds but Panther, owing to strength gained from weightlifting training to compliment his Krav Maga, manages to break free each time. Just when Shadow thought he had the upper hand, Panther executed an MMA Thai Boxing maneuver and knocked the wind out of Shadow.

In the second example, I may include Raven (Olivia) in the picture after Shadow and Panther completed their match.

Of course, I won't miss out on Stalker experimenting with his Raptor Rifle and Hawk doing mountain climbing and paragliding in the outdoors, then throw in a seed scene between Viper and David for some later romance (more about this in the next post.

So reader can expect quite a bit of fanfare going on in the chapters that follow, each character taking turn to drive the story, or else provide the occasion for the main characters to develop their story journeys.

Writing a novel with a whole character cast is like weaving a web with silky strands extending outwards, yet with the potential of getting caught in your own undoing if it is not properly handled.

Is that foolhardy, exciting or what?