When you think of the excellent character novel, you may refer to J.D Salinger’s skill at depicting teenage angst in his 1951 novel The Catcher in the Rye. But how did a 30-year-old man produce such a convincing portrayal of an alienated 1950s teen? Here are some helpful pointers to help you write believable characters.
Use Slang
One of Salinger’s significant accomplishments was his ability to tap into popular slang. Every era’s youth has their way of talking. The novel’s protagonist (or perhaps antagonist) is convincing in his age through his use of 50’s American slang. Look at your character’s age and setting. Try to apply realistic dialogue. A 14-year-old girl won’t talk like a middle-aged scholar.
Zeitgeist
If you’re writing about a specific era, understand it. What was happening? What was pop culture? Is there anything particular happening in the world around your character? Salinger was a great observer. He sensed the disillusion of adolescents in the 50s that led to the rise of Rock and icons like James Dean. Observe and research. Make it believable.
First Person
Write subjectively. It’s much easier to portray a character convincingly if there is only one important character. Narrate through their eyes. Yes, it means we don’t get a candid and varied account, but it highlights an individual’s complexities. This makes for a story entirely driven by the strength of character.
Understand Your Audience
The Catcher in the Rye is as well known for controversy for its brilliance. It was a novel for adults and brazen its use of adult themes. If you’re marketing towards a specific demographic, understand it. With older readers, you can write with much more freedom. That’s what makes Holden Caulfield so compelling.
Create a Backstory
Do this even if you never mention it. There is more Salinger doesn’t say about his character than does, but Caulfield never feels incomplete. He is a convincing character because he feels whole. His past is implied, which creates a strength of character that never feels unfinished. So spend some time thinking about your character’s life. Then pick a time in it to write about and begin!
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