As the protagonist of your story, you are the center of attention, but without a supporting cast, you're just a solo act in a desolate landscape. Enter the art of creating a supporting character!
A supporting character should be more than just a prop or a distraction. They should serve a purpose, whether it's to provide comedic relief, offer a different perspective, or create tension and conflict. Here's how to craft a character that's more than just a pretty face:
- Give them a purpose: What is your supporting character's goal, motivation, or drive?
- Make them relatable: What makes them human (or not human, if you're going for something more... alien)?
- Complicate them: Give them flaws, fears, and weaknesses. Make them more interesting, not just a cardboard cutout.
- Integrate them into the story: How do they interact with your protagonist, and how does their presence affect the plot?
"A good supporting character is like a well-placed brick in the wall of your story. They hold it all together, or sometimes, they're the one who makes the wall fall apart."
Example Character Profile:
{
"name": "Bernice",
"goal": "To find the last donut in the break room",
"motivation": "Hunger and a love of sweet treats",
"relatability": "Loves video games, hates mornings",
"complicating factors": "Has a fear of heights, often forgets what she's doing"
}