N
norseheathen
Guest
Some writers describe characters by telling you what they are:
i.e. "she was gorgeous, talented, and...."
Other writers describe characters by telling you what they are not:
i.e. "He was not handsome or well-mannered and he lacked...."
***Question: As writers, is it more effective to describe characters by emphasizing their attributes or by emphasizing the attributes they lack? Should you choose one or the other or a little of both?
I say this having recently read a few Henry James novels. James has an affinity for describing characters by emphasizing their physical and psychological shortcomings.
As always, any thoughts and opinions are welcome.
i.e. "she was gorgeous, talented, and...."
Other writers describe characters by telling you what they are not:
i.e. "He was not handsome or well-mannered and he lacked...."
***Question: As writers, is it more effective to describe characters by emphasizing their attributes or by emphasizing the attributes they lack? Should you choose one or the other or a little of both?
I say this having recently read a few Henry James novels. James has an affinity for describing characters by emphasizing their physical and psychological shortcomings.
As always, any thoughts and opinions are welcome.