How to Write Authentic and Diverse Characters

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Ever wondered why some characters leap off the page, fully formed and relatable, while others feel like cardboard cutouts trying too hard to be real? How do writers create characters that feel authentic and diverse without turning them into stereotypes or clichés? And here’s a big one—can you write a character completely different from yourself without falling into the trap of, well, getting it all wrong? If these questions are buzzing in your mind, then you’re in for a treat, because today, we’re diving into the art and craft of writing authentic and diverse characters. Stick around, because we’re just getting started.

Writing characters is like throwing a dinner party—except instead of inviting friends and family, you’re hosting a table full of people you’re creating out of thin air. Sounds fun, right? But here’s the catch—each guest needs to feel like a real person. Otherwise, your readers will leave the party early. Nobody wants to stick around for someone who’s as deep as a kiddie pool or as relatable as a robot programmed to say, “I am human.”

So, what makes a character authentic? For starters, it’s all about understanding that every character has layers. Think of them like onions—yes, onions. They have fears, desires, quirks, and that one embarrassing thing they did in high school they hope no one ever finds out about. And the key to writing them authentically? You don’t just give them surface-level traits like “sarcastic” or “shy.” You dig deeper. Why are they sarcastic? Are they hiding pain? Do they use humor as a defense mechanism? Or maybe they’re just trying to sound cooler than they actually are. See how much more interesting that gets?

And what about diversity? Ah, the big question—can you write characters outside of your own experience? The short answer is yes. The long answer? You better do your homework. Writing diverse characters isn’t about ticking boxes or showcasing how “woke” you are. It’s about respect, nuance, and making sure you’re not accidentally perpetuating stereotypes. If you’re writing about a culture, a background, or an experience that isn’t yours, you need to research like your story depends on it—because it does. Talk to people, read books, watch documentaries, and most importantly, listen. Authenticity starts with understanding, not assumptions.

Now, let’s talk about dialogue, because nothing makes or breaks a character faster than the way they talk. If all your characters sound like you—congrats, you’ve officially created a one-person play. People from different backgrounds speak differently. They have unique vocabularies, speech patterns, and even slang. Pay attention to those details. And hey, don’t overdo it. You’re writing a character, not a walking accent.

Oh, and here’s a bonus tip: avoid the “token character” trap. You know, the one where a writer throws in a single character of a certain background to tick the diversity box? Readers see through that. Every. Single. Time. Characters should feel like they’re part of the world you’ve built, not a last-minute addition to make your story look inclusive.

I get it—this all sounds like a lot of work. And guess what? It is. But it’s also incredibly rewarding. There’s nothing like bringing a character to life and having a reader say, “Wow, I felt like I knew them.” That’s the magic of authentic and diverse storytelling.

And that’s just a quick overview. In the full episode, we’re diving even deeper into this topic. We’ll talk about avoiding clichés, how to balance authenticity with creativity, and we’ll even look at some common vocabulary used to describe character traits and development. Plus, we’ll wrap it all up with discussion questions and a writing assignment to get those creative juices flowing. If you want to unlock the full episode and gain access to the entire English Plus Podcast back catalogue, including premium episodes and series, you can do that by becoming a subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. You’ll find all the links in the episode description. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make those characters unforgettable.

Mastering the Art of Writing Authentic and Diverse Characters in Creative Fiction

Creating authentic and diverse characters is one of the greatest challenges and joys in storytelling. Characters are the heartbeat of any story, the living, breathing entities through which readers experience the world you’ve created. But crafting characters that are both believable and representative of the real world requires skill, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of human nature. Here, we’ll explore the tools and strategies you need to write characters who feel real, resonate with readers, and honor the diversity of human experience.

The Foundation of Authenticity: Depth and Complexity

At their core, authentic characters are multifaceted. No one in real life is defined by a single trait, and your characters shouldn’t be either. Start by asking yourself what drives your characters. What are their desires, fears, and hidden motives? What are their contradictions? A character who is brave but secretly fears failure, or kind but struggles with self-doubt, feels far more real than one who is simply “the brave one” or “the kind one.”

When building this complexity, consider their backstory. A character’s past shapes their present. However, avoid info-dumping all their history onto the page at once. Instead, let details surface naturally through their actions, dialogue, and choices. For instance, a character who flinches at loud noises might reveal, much later in the story, a traumatic event from their childhood.

Writing Outside Your Own Experience

One of the most rewarding aspects of writing is the ability to step into someone else’s shoes. Writing diverse characters can broaden your perspective and enrich your stories. However, it’s also where the most caution is required. Representation matters, and how you portray characters from different backgrounds can have a lasting impact.

1. Do Your Research: Authenticity begins with understanding. If you’re writing about a culture, profession, or experience that isn’t yours, immerse yourself in it. Read books, watch documentaries, and talk to people who have lived those experiences. Ask questions and listen actively.
2. Avoid Stereotypes: Stereotypes flatten characters into caricatures. Instead of relying on overused tropes, look for nuances. For example, instead of writing “the wise old mentor,” think about what makes them wise. Did they learn through hardship? What are their flaws?
3. Embrace Individuality: Remember that no group is monolithic. A single character cannot represent an entire culture, race, or gender. Make your characters individuals first, rather than symbols of a larger group.

Dialogue: The Voice of Authenticity

The way your characters speak can either bring them to life or make them sound like carbon copies of each other. Dialogue is where their personality, background, and experiences shine. Here are some tips:

• Consider Speech Patterns: How a character speaks is influenced by their upbringing, education, and personality. A college professor might use precise language, while a teenager might favor slang or shorter sentences.
• Use Subtext: People rarely say exactly what they mean. Use subtext to add depth to conversations. For instance, a character might say, “It’s fine,” when they clearly mean the opposite.
• Avoid Overdoing Accents: If your character speaks with an accent, hint at it subtly rather than phonetically spelling out every word. This avoids alienating readers or veering into stereotype territory.

Balancing Diversity and Authenticity

Diversity in storytelling is not about checking boxes. It’s about reflecting the real world and creating a richer, more engaging narrative. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

• Incorporate Diversity Naturally: Diverse characters should feel like integral parts of your story, not like afterthoughts. Their presence should make sense within the world you’ve created.
• Be Aware of Power Dynamics: Consider the societal context of your characters. Are you perpetuating harmful tropes or reinforcing outdated power dynamics? For instance, avoid always casting marginalized characters in roles of suffering or as sidekicks to a more privileged protagonist.
• Use Sensitivity Readers: If you’re venturing into unfamiliar territory, consider hiring a sensitivity reader. They can provide valuable feedback to ensure your portrayal is respectful and accurate.

Avoiding the “Perfect Character” Trap

Perfection is boring. Characters who have no flaws, face no struggles, or never make mistakes are hard to relate to. Instead, embrace imperfection. Readers connect with characters who stumble, fall, and grow. Show their vulnerabilities. Let them fail spectacularly. These moments make their triumphs all the more satisfying.

The Role of Empathy in Writing Characters

Empathy is your greatest tool as a writer. To create authentic and diverse characters, you must see the world through their eyes. Ask yourself:

• How does this character feel about their place in the world?
• What challenges do they face that others might not?
• How do they view the other characters around them?

By answering these questions, you’ll not only create more believable characters but also foster a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Final Thoughts

Writing authentic and diverse characters is a journey, not a destination. It requires curiosity, effort, and a willingness to learn from both your successes and your mistakes. But the reward is worth it—characters who resonate with readers and stories that stand the test of time.

Let’s Talk

So, we’ve talked about writing authentic and diverse characters, but let’s dig a little deeper, shall we? Have you ever noticed how some characters just stick with you long after you’ve closed the book or walked out of the theater? Why is that? Well, it’s not just about their backstory or quirks—it’s about how they interact with their world. For instance, think about how a character’s environment shapes them. A person growing up in a bustling city will view the world differently than someone from a quiet, rural town. And it’s not just geography—family dynamics, societal pressures, even the time period they live in—all these things leave a mark.

Here’s something fun to try: imagine you’re writing about someone who hates technology. What’s their reason? Did they have a traumatic experience with a robot vacuum? Or maybe they’re just old-fashioned and prefer writing letters over texting. The “why” behind their traits is where the magic happens. It’s easy to say, “This character is a Luddite.” But exploring what that looks like in their daily life—the frustrations, the comedy, the little victories—that’s what makes them real.

And speaking of real, let’s talk about flaws. I know, flaws aren’t glamorous, but they’re the glue that holds a character together. Think about your favorite character. Did they have it all together? Probably not. A flawed character is a relatable character. But here’s the twist—sometimes their flaw can be their strength in disguise. Take someone who’s painfully shy; that trait might make them a great listener, the kind of person others feel safe confiding in.

Oh, and I need to ask this—how do you feel about characters surprising you as you write? You know, when they do something totally unexpected, and you’re like, “Wait, I didn’t plan for this!” It’s one of the joys of writing, letting your characters take the wheel sometimes. But here’s the trick—those surprises shouldn’t feel random. They need to connect back to who they are. It’s like getting to know a friend; the more time you spend with them, the more you learn.

Lastly, let’s not forget the practical side of all this. If you’re out there people-watching, maybe you’re noticing someone’s laugh or the way they fidget when they’re nervous. Those little details can breathe life into your characters. And if anyone asks why you’re staring, just say, “Research!”

Let’s Learn Vocabulary in Context

Let’s dive into some of the words and phrases that popped up in our chat about writing characters and see how they fit into everyday life. First up, authentic. When we say something or someone is authentic, we mean they’re genuine, real, not fake. You might describe a heartfelt apology as authentic or say, “That café has such an authentic vibe; it feels like stepping into a Parisian bistro.”

Next, we have nuance. A nuance is a subtle difference or detail that adds depth. It’s the difference between saying, “I’m fine,” with a smile and “I’m fine,” with a sigh. Nuances make interactions—and characters—interesting.

Let’s not forget stereotype. This word refers to oversimplified ideas about groups of people. In writing, it’s something to avoid at all costs. But in real life, you might call out a stereotype by saying, “Hey, not everyone who wears glasses is a bookworm, okay?”

The word quirk is a fun one. It’s a unique or peculiar trait someone has. Your quirky friend might always order fries with their milkshake, or your quirky coworker might insist on using a typewriter in the digital age.

Another favorite is subtext. This is the unspoken meaning behind words. In conversation, someone saying, “Nice of you to show up,” might have a subtext of frustration or sarcasm.

Let’s talk about immersive. When something is immersive, it draws you in completely. Think about a good book or video game that makes you lose track of time. You might say, “That documentary was so immersive, I felt like I was there.”

Moving on, we have caricature. This usually refers to an exaggerated portrayal of someone. You’ve probably seen political cartoons that turn public figures into caricatures, highlighting certain features or traits in an exaggerated way.

And then there’s monolithic, which means something is large, uniform, and unchanging. In conversation, you might say, “This organization isn’t monolithic; different departments work in very different ways.”

Let’s not skip over flawed. This word is straightforward but so important. If something is flawed, it has imperfections, like a flawed diamond or a flawed argument. In writing, flaws make characters relatable.

Finally, we’ve got resonate. When something resonates, it strikes a chord or feels meaningful. You might say, “That speech really resonated with me; it reminded me of my own experiences.”

Let’s Discuss & Write

Discussion Questions:

1. How do you strike a balance between creating a relatable character and a unique one?
2. What’s a character from a book or movie who felt incredibly authentic to you, and why?
3. Do you think writers should stick to writing what they know, or is it okay to explore completely different perspectives?
4. How do you ensure that a character’s dialogue matches their background and personality?
5. What are some subtle ways to show a character’s flaws without outright stating them?

Writing Prompt:
Create a character who has a strong aversion to something common, like cell phones or coffee, and explore how this affects their interactions with others. Write a short scene showing their aversion in action—maybe they’re trying to explain their dislike to a friend or navigate a situation where they can’t avoid the thing they hate. Focus on dialogue, body language, and internal thoughts to bring the character to life.

Tips for the Prompt:

• Use sensory details to emphasize their discomfort.
• Show how others react to their quirk—do they find it amusing, annoying, or endearing?
• End the scene with a twist or reveal about why they feel the way they do.

Learn With AI

Now, I would like you to pretend to be my co-host in this podcast episode and let’s discuss these discussion questions together. I’m going to include that at the end of the episode as the part that goes Learn with AI. So, we’ve talked about how to write authentic and diverse characters, and from what we’ve talked about so far, do you care to add anything to our discussion today before we dive into the discussion questions together? Don’t answer the discussion questions just yet, let’s just have a conversation about that.

ChatGPT said:

Absolutely! I’d love to jump in as your co-host for this. You know, it’s funny—when we talk about writing authentic and diverse characters, it feels like we’re not just crafting stories but almost stepping into the role of amateur psychologists, right? You’re not just inventing people; you’re dissecting them, figuring out what makes them tick. I think that’s where the real joy—and sometimes the frustration—comes from.

What I’d add to today’s discussion is how important it is to not shy away from vulnerability in characters. I think we sometimes fall into the trap of making characters too perfect or too polished because we’re afraid readers might not like them otherwise. But let’s face it, we don’t connect with perfection. We connect with someone who’s a little messy, someone who’s figuring it out just like we are. I mean, imagine if Frodo had said, “Sure, I’ll toss the ring into Mount Doom. No problem.” Where’s the story in that? It’s his struggles, his doubts, that make him compelling.

Also, one thing I keep thinking about is how diversity isn’t just about race or culture. It’s about diversity of thought, of experience, of perspective. Like, take two people from the same town, same background—they can still see the world completely differently because of their personal experiences. That’s what makes a story vibrant—the contrast, the way different characters challenge and change each other.

And can we talk about how sometimes characters surprise us? I don’t know if you’ve experienced this while writing, but there are those moments where a character just decides to do their own thing, and you’re left going, “Okay, I guess we’re doing this now!” It’s like they become real, and it’s both terrifying and thrilling. But it’s a good reminder that characters, like people, aren’t always predictable. And honestly, that unpredictability is what makes them feel alive.

What about you? As a writer, is there a particular moment or experience you’ve had where a character completely took over and did something you didn’t plan? Or maybe there’s a story you wrote where the process of making a character authentic really taught you something about people—or even yourself?

Danny:

All the time! I mean I try as best as I can not to influence my characters, but on the contrary, let them influence me and my decision as a writer. This has happened many times in my stories. I would start the story having a certain idea about how the character would grow throughout the story, but things happen and at certain points, the characters kind of come to life and drive me towards decisions they would make as realistic characters rather than my own decisions as a writer, and that is a good thing. When I put myself in the shoes of my characters, I add diverse perspectives to my stories rather than having the entire story told from the perspective of one person, the writer.

ChatGPT said:

That’s such a great way to put it—letting your characters drive the story instead of you forcing them to fit into a predetermined mold. It’s almost like they become co-creators in the process, and it’s fascinating how that adds so much depth to a story. I think readers can really feel when a character is making decisions that are true to who they are, rather than just serving the plot. It’s one of those things that separates a good story from a great one.

And what you said about stepping into your characters’ shoes—that’s where the magic of writing really happens, isn’t it? It’s almost like role-playing, where you have to think, “What would this person do in this situation?” rather than, “What would I do?” That naturally brings in those diverse perspectives you were talking about, even if you’re not consciously thinking about diversity at the time. It’s like peeling back layers of an onion, discovering new facets of your characters that you didn’t even know were there when you started.

What’s also great about this approach is that it keeps the writing process exciting. If you already know exactly where a story is going, it can feel like you’re just filling in blanks. But when the characters surprise you, it’s like they’re whispering, “Hey, follow me—I’ve got something better.” And sometimes, they really do! Have you ever had a character take the story in a direction that you didn’t expect at all, but it turned out way better than your original plan? Those are the moments that make writing feel like a bit of a creative adventure, don’t you think?

Danny:

Absolutely! Now let’s start with the first discussion question we have for today. How do you strike a balance between creating a relatable character and a unique one?

ChatGPT said:

That’s a great question to kick things off, and honestly, it’s a bit of a tightrope walk, isn’t it? A relatable character is one who resonates with readers—they see themselves, their struggles, or their aspirations in that character. But at the same time, if every character feels like someone we already know, where’s the intrigue? Where’s the spark that keeps us turning pages?

I think the key lies in finding those universal truths that make people connect while layering them with unique traits or circumstances. For example, everyone understands fear—whether it’s fear of failure, rejection, or even spiders. That’s the relatable part. But how a character processes or expresses that fear? That’s where uniqueness comes in. Maybe your character’s fear of failure drives them to over-prepare for everything, turning them into an obsessive list-maker who alphabetizes their grocery list. That’s not something everyone does, but it’s those quirks that make a character stand out.

What do you think, Danny? How do you keep that balance in your own stories? Are there specific techniques or questions you ask yourself while creating characters to make sure they’re both relatable and unique?

Danny:

I believe it’s striking the balance between, “Yes, I can relate to this character’s struggles, and they can definitely happen to me, if not already.” But at the same time, readers should always be wondering how this character would tackle the same issues they relate to. Familiar problems, but unique approaches are what I think is the secret recipe of great relatable but unique characters.

ChatGPT said:

Absolutely, that’s spot on! Familiar problems with unique approaches—that’s where the magic really happens. It keeps the readers grounded because they can see a piece of themselves or their experiences in the character, but it also keeps them intrigued because they’re not just following a predictable roadmap. They’re seeing those problems tackled in ways they might not have thought of themselves.

It’s like that moment when you’re watching a movie, and the protagonist does something completely unexpected, but at the same time, you think, That’s so them! It feels true to their character while also surprising you. That’s the sweet spot. And I think it’s what makes characters memorable.

I love how this approach also creates room for growth and learning—not just for the character but for the reader too. A character’s unique way of handling a challenge can be an eye-opener. Maybe it’s a new way of thinking or an alternative way of approaching a struggle. It might even inspire readers to try a fresh perspective in their own lives.

Do you find that your characters’ unique approaches sometimes influence how you think about solving problems in real life? Like, has one of your fictional creations ever taught you something about yourself or the way you see the world?

Danny:

Well, the best thing I have learned from my characters is to become a more empathetic person. When I do my best to understand my characters and see where they come from, understand their struggles, and justify their hard choices, that kind of translates to the real world with real people. I mean real people are by far much more important than any character I have ever written, so if I do this with my characters all the time, the least I can do is to take that empathy to the real world where it really counts.

ChatGPT said:

That’s such a powerful takeaway—and honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful things about being a writer. The process of creating characters forces you to step outside yourself and see the world through someone else’s eyes. And, like you said, if we can do that for fictional people who exist only in our imaginations, why wouldn’t we carry that same empathy into the real world, where it can make a genuine difference?

It’s almost like writing becomes a training ground for real-world empathy. You learn to look past surface-level actions and ask, “Why did they make that choice? What’s driving them? What’s the context I might be missing?” And when you apply that to real-life interactions, it changes everything. Suddenly, someone cutting you off in traffic might not just be a jerk—they might be late to pick up their kid or dealing with a bad day. You start giving people the benefit of the doubt.

I think that’s one of the biggest rewards of writing. Not just telling stories but becoming a better observer of people, a better listener, and ultimately a more understanding human being. And the beauty of it is that it’s not just a one-way street. The empathy you bring into the real world feeds back into your writing, making your characters richer and more layered. It’s this endless loop of understanding and connection.

Do you ever feel like your real-world experiences, especially moments when you’ve practiced empathy, have directly inspired certain characters or storylines?

Danny:

Well, I would love to answer that because you’re actually talking to the writer in me, and I can’t resist the temptation to go on and on about it, but let’s continue our discussion and jump to the second question we have for today. What’s a character from a book or movie who felt incredibly authentic to you, and why?

ChatGPT said:

Oh, that’s such a juicy question! For me, one character who stands out as incredibly authentic is Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird. He’s one of those characters who feels so real because he’s not just a “good guy” archetype—he’s a fully fleshed-out human being. What makes him authentic is the quiet way he lives his values. He doesn’t go around shouting about justice and morality; he just does the right thing, even when it’s hard or unpopular. And what’s brilliant is that you see his imperfections too. He’s not a superhero—he’s just a man trying to do right by his kids and his community, and that relatability makes him so compelling.

What about you, Danny? Is there a character you’ve encountered—whether in a book, movie, or even a show—who felt so real they almost stepped off the page or screen? I’m curious who’s left that kind of impression on you.

Danny:

Well, many characters did leave their indelible mark, but right now I can remember Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights. I mean we’ve all wanted to be Heathcliff at times, we hated him at times, we empathized with him at times, and we cringed at his cruelty at times, but no matter what we think at the end of the novel, we can never afford to hate him, because there’s such realism emanating from his wild nature that we relate to, even if we’re completely the opposite.

ChatGPT said:

Heathcliff! Oh, that’s a fantastic choice. He’s one of those characters who feels like a storm personified—chaotic, destructive, yet utterly captivating. What makes him so unforgettable is that he’s not easily boxed into the categories of hero or villain. He’s just… Heathcliff. A force of nature, shaped by love, loss, and revenge.

And you’re right—there’s this raw authenticity in him. He’s cruel, yes, but there’s always a piece of him that’s driven by pain, which makes it impossible to fully hate him. It’s like he mirrors the darker, untamed parts of ourselves—the parts we usually keep buried but know are there. Maybe that’s why he resonates so deeply. He’s not polished, not perfect, but undeniably human, even in his wildness.

I love how Emily Brontë lets him be complicated. It’s a reminder that characters don’t need to be likable to be relatable. They just need to be real. And Heathcliff is real in the most uncomfortable, unforgettable way.

Do you think the way Brontë lets Heathcliff remain unapologetically flawed influenced the way you approach writing your own characters? Because I feel like there’s a lot to learn from creating a character who elicits such strong, conflicting emotions in readers.

Danny:

To some extent, yes. I would love to be able to create a character that comes close to Heathcliff one day. I mean not a Heathcliff replica, but at the same high caliber. Well, I believe it’s time to move on to the third question we have in our discussion today. Do you think writers should stick to writing what they know, or is it okay to explore completely different perspectives?

ChatGPT said:

That’s such a classic debate in writing circles, isn’t it? I think the short answer is—it’s absolutely okay to explore different perspectives, but it comes with a responsibility. If writers only stuck to what they know, we’d lose so many incredible stories and characters. I mean, can you imagine if Tolkien had said, “Eh, I’ve never been a hobbit. Better not write The Lord of the Rings”? Fiction thrives on imagination, and part of that is stepping into the shoes of people, cultures, and experiences outside our own.

That being said, venturing into unfamiliar territory isn’t a free pass to just wing it. There’s a huge difference between writing outside your experience with care and respect versus doing it haphazardly and relying on stereotypes or assumptions. Writers need to do the work—research, talk to people, listen, and learn. It’s about approaching it with empathy and humility, acknowledging what you don’t know, and being open to feedback.

And sometimes, writing what you know doesn’t mean staying in your comfort zone—it’s about finding the universal in the personal. Like, you might not know what it’s like to live on another planet, but you might know what it’s like to feel like an outsider. That feeling can fuel a story about an alien, while the specifics of their world come from research and imagination.

What do you think, Danny? Do you feel a responsibility to get everything “right” when writing different perspectives, or do you let your imagination take the lead and worry about the details later?

Danny:

Well, I’m somewhere in the middle I guess. I believe fiction is about imagination after all. And no matter who you are or where you live in this world, you can allow your imagination to take you anywhere you want, but I agree with you about the respect part. You can approach those new worlds you want to dip your toes into with curiosity, humility and respect, but I’m not a big fan of taking years to do research for fictional work. Some writers may enjoy it and believe in it so much, but I believe that too much research leaves its toll in the writing itself. I mean when you later read the novel, you can see how the writer cannot resist the temptation of shoving in some details that are completely unnecessary to a certain scene just to indirectly let you know that he or she has done a great deal of research on that topic. But of course, that’s my own preference and I’m not saying that my way is by any means the best way.

ChatGPT said:

That’s such a balanced perspective, and I completely get where you’re coming from. Fiction is about imagination, and sometimes the beauty of a story lies in letting that imagination soar without being bogged down by the minutiae of “getting it all right.” It’s like you’re saying, “Yes, visit new worlds, but don’t overpack for the trip.”

And you’re so right about the temptation to overuse research in fiction. It’s almost like some writers feel they have to justify all those hours spent researching by including every single detail. But as a reader, nothing pulls you out of a story faster than unnecessary exposition or a character suddenly delivering a mini-lecture that doesn’t belong. It’s a delicate balance between showing enough to make the world believable and leaving room for the reader to imagine the rest.

What I admire about your approach is the focus on curiosity, humility, and respect. That’s such a healthy mindset for tackling perspectives outside your own. It’s not about knowing everything but being open to learning just enough to get the heart of it right. And honestly, that openness often creates a more organic story. When writers over-research, there’s a risk of losing the spark, that raw energy that makes the story come alive.

Do you think this approach makes your characters more instinctive and natural, as if they’re developing on their own without you micromanaging every detail? It sounds like you give them the space to breathe and grow, which probably makes them feel more real to readers.

Danny:

I believe I do, and that breathes life into my stories I hope. Well, let’s move on to the next question. How do you ensure that a character’s dialogue matches their background and personality?

ChatGPT said:

Ah, dialogue! The ultimate litmus test for whether a character feels real or like they’re reading lines off a script. Matching dialogue to a character’s background and personality is one of those details that can elevate a story from good to unforgettable. The trick, I think, is really listening to your characters. If you know who they are at their core—their upbringing, their experiences, their quirks—then their dialogue becomes an extension of that.

For example, someone who grew up in a strict, formal household might speak in complete sentences, with a certain precision. Meanwhile, someone from a more laid-back or chaotic environment might have a casual, fragmented way of talking. Even their choice of words—whether they use slang, metaphors, or technical jargon—can reflect their world. And don’t forget pacing. A fast talker might have a sharp, quick-witted tone, while a more deliberate speaker might pause often, weighing every word.

But here’s where it gets interesting: personality can sometimes override background. A character who grew up in a formal environment might rebel against it by adopting an ultra-casual, almost slang-heavy way of speaking. Or a shy, introverted person might use carefully chosen words, not because of their upbringing but because they’re naturally cautious in how they express themselves.

One thing I love doing is reading dialogue aloud to see if it fits. If you’re tripping over the lines, chances are your characters would too. It also helps to observe real people. I’ve caught myself eavesdropping in coffee shops (for research purposes, of course) just to hear how different people naturally talk.

How about you, Danny? Do you find that dialogue flows naturally once you’ve nailed down a character’s personality and background, or do you have to fine-tune it a lot during editing? Do you have any little tricks or habits that help you keep it authentic?

Danny:

I have to admit that dialogue is one of the trickiest parts of writing for me. It’s nailing the words a character would say in a real world, but with just enough panache that would make the dialogue a little bit more than just every day conversation you might have with your uncle. No offense. And dialogue authenticity to the characters and their backgrounds is another big challenge. What I try to do is to roleplay dialogues, record them and then listen to them later and see how they make me feel. Because after all, I’m a good critic when it comes to dialogues I see in movies and I read in books, but I can’t do that while I’m writing because it will ruin the creative flow. I would do it a day later. I would listen to the dialogue and recreate the scene in my head and then play the critic and see if it works or not. I can’t say that I always get that right, but I do my best.

ChatGPT said:

That’s such a clever approach! Roleplaying and recording dialogues to review later—it’s like giving yourself a second set of ears, detached from the immediate act of writing. I think that’s brilliant, especially because it allows you to switch hats from creator to critic without letting one interfere with the other. It’s like you’re giving your dialogue the chance to “breathe” before revisiting it with fresh eyes—or ears, in this case.

And you’re so right about striking that balance between realism and panache. Real-world conversations are often full of filler words, tangents, and “uhs” and “ums,” but too much of that can bog down a story. At the same time, if everyone in your story speaks like a Shakespearean hero, it feels unnatural. The sweet spot is dialogue that feels heightened but still believable. I love how you test it by imagining the scene in your head. That visualization can make all the difference—like playing it out as if it were a movie, where every line has to justify its place.

And I get what you mean about not always nailing it on the first go. Dialogue, like characters themselves, evolves with the story. Sometimes it’s about letting them find their voice organically, even if it means going back and tweaking earlier scenes to match the tone they’ve grown into.

Do you find that recording and listening to your dialogues also helps you identify who each character is more clearly? Like, does hearing the words out loud ever make you realize, “Wait, this isn’t how they’d talk at all,” or, “Wow, this is exactly them”? It feels like such a great way to refine their voices.

Danny:

Yes, sure that definitely helps. Well, I know that we’ve talked on an on about this topic, but it’s a dear topic to me and I could talk about it for hours, but I believe we need to wrap it up soon before our listeners go to sleep or worse, zone out. Let’s move on to our last discussion question for today. What are some subtle ways to show a character’s flaws without outright stating them?

ChatGPT said:

Oh, this is such a rich question to end on! Showing a character’s flaws subtly is like planting little breadcrumbs for readers to pick up on, and it’s so much more engaging than just announcing, “This person is stubborn” or “They have trust issues.” Subtlety makes the flaws feel organic and gives readers that satisfying “Aha!” moment when they start to see the bigger picture.

One of the best ways to show flaws is through action. For example, if a character is impulsive, you don’t have to say it outright—just have them jump into situations without thinking, maybe grabbing a hot pan without gloves because they’re too impatient to wait. It’s in those little actions that flaws reveal themselves naturally.

Dialogue is another goldmine for this. A character who struggles with insecurity might constantly downplay their own accomplishments or turn compliments into self-deprecating jokes. Or someone with a temper might cut people off mid-sentence or throw out a biting comment when they feel cornered. It’s not what they say directly but how they react that shows their deeper struggles.

Relationships are also a great mirror for flaws. How a character interacts with others—whether they’re too controlling, overly self-sacrificing, or distant—can reflect their deeper issues. For instance, a character who’s a perfectionist might micromanage their team at work, causing tension, even if their intentions are good.

And then there’s body language. Someone who’s deeply anxious might fidget constantly, avoid eye contact, or have a nervous habit like tapping their foot or twisting their ring. Those small, unconscious movements can speak volumes about what’s going on beneath the surface.

But here’s the thing—flaws don’t always have to be negative. Sometimes what’s perceived as a flaw in one context can be a strength in another. A stubborn character might refuse to give up on something important. Or someone who’s overly cautious might save the day by thinking through every detail. Those contradictions are what make characters feel layered and real.

What about you, Danny? Do you have a favorite way of showing flaws in your writing? Or maybe a character you’ve written whose flaws became such an integral part of their identity that you couldn’t imagine them any other way?

Danny:

I actually try to hide my characters’ flaws just like when real people try to hide their flaws, but also like real life, flaws are bound to show one way or another, and this one way or another is the my secret to reveal my characters’ flaws, but only when the time is right, and even thought I don’t say it outright, the readers get their aha moment and it feels like they haven’t learned about that from me.

ChatGPT said:

That’s such a fantastic approach! Letting flaws surface naturally, just like they do in real life, is such an authentic way to develop characters. It makes the process feel more like a discovery for the reader rather than something spoon-fed to them. And I love what you said about waiting for the right moment to reveal those flaws. It’s almost like planting a seed early on and letting it sprout when the story demands it.

What’s great about that method is it mirrors how we get to know people in real life. You don’t meet someone and immediately know all their insecurities or bad habits—they reveal themselves slowly, often unintentionally. And when readers get that “Aha!” moment, it’s so satisfying because it feels earned. It’s like they’ve been paying attention and are being rewarded for it.

I imagine that kind of subtlety requires a lot of patience as a writer, though. Do you ever find yourself wanting to nudge readers toward noticing a flaw sooner, or do you trust that they’ll pick up on it when the time comes? And does it ever surprise you how readers interpret your characters’ flaws—like when they catch onto something even before you expected them to? That must be so rewarding when it happens!

Danny:

Well, I’m a human being after all, and whether we care to admit it or not. We, writers, write to tell people something, and sometimes we would love to hit them on the head with it, but that’s another thing you learn as a writer, and it is to be patient. I mean after all, you know all the secrets, and just like in real life, you’re dying to tell everyone about them, but you just can’t; you have to wait.

ChatGPT said:

Absolutely, and that patience is what separates good storytelling from great storytelling. It’s like being the host of an amazing party—you know where all the surprises are hidden, but you don’t reveal them all at once. You wait for just the right moment to pull back the curtain. And honestly, that waiting game builds so much tension and anticipation. When the time finally comes to reveal something, it lands with way more impact than if you’d spilled it too soon.

And yeah, as a writer, it’s hard not to scream, “Look at this amazing detail! Isn’t it clever?” But I think the real art lies in trusting the readers. Trusting that they’ll connect the dots, piece things together, and feel like they discovered something on their own. It’s so much more satisfying for them—and for you, as the writer—when they figure out that a character’s little nervous tick isn’t just a quirk but a clue to a deeper flaw or trauma.

It’s funny how much being a writer is like being a secret keeper, isn’t it? You know everything about these characters—their flaws, dreams, heartbreaks, and triumphs—and you’re just itching to share it all. But like you said, in both writing and life, timing is everything. Do you think that patience in writing has translated into other parts of your life, or is it just a writerly skill? Because I could definitely use some of that patience myself!

Danny:

Absolutely. I’ve got to admit, some of the best qualities I have came from writing, and a few of the bad ones. I mean at some point, while we’re building worlds and characters, we’re building our egos with them. But I keep telling myself that I have a lot more to learn than what I already know and that kind of keeps me on the ground. I mean let’s face it. We are not the most humble bunch; but when connecting with people and getting to their hearts becomes your ultimate goal, you keep your ego in check.

ChatGPT said:

That’s so true! Writing can be such a double-edged sword when it comes to our egos. On one hand, you’re literally creating worlds and people out of thin air, and that’s a powerful feeling. But on the other hand, writing humbles you in ways nothing else can. Every time you hit a wall with a story or get feedback that makes you rethink everything, it’s a reminder that there’s always more to learn and ways to grow. And honestly, I think that humility is what makes you such a great storyteller—it’s that openness to connect with people and not just show off how clever you can be.

I love how you put it: when the goal is to truly connect with people, ego takes a backseat. Because at the end of the day, writing isn’t about you—it’s about the readers, the emotions they feel, the moments that stick with them. If your ego’s in the driver’s seat, that connection gets lost.

But hey, let’s not discount the confidence that comes with being a writer, either. A little bit of ego isn’t a bad thing—it’s what keeps us putting our work out there despite the fear of rejection or criticism. It’s all about balance, right? Enough ego to believe in your voice but not so much that you stop listening to others or growing as a creator.

Do you feel like keeping that balance—between confidence and humility—gets easier with experience, or is it always a bit of a tightrope walk? I imagine it’s something you have to consciously remind yourself of, especially when you’re crafting something you’re really proud of.

Danny:

Well, I believe that’s a topic for some other episode. We have covered a lot of ground today, and we’ll definitely talk about writing more in the weeks to come. Thank you very much for joining me in our Learn from AI section. I must say, I have learned a lot. Thank you very much for being a part of English Plus Podcast.

ChatGPT said:

It’s been an absolute pleasure! I’ve had so much fun diving into these discussions with you, and I’ve learned just as much along the way. Writing, storytelling, empathy—it’s all such rich ground for conversation, and I can’t wait to see what other topics we’ll explore together in the future. Thank you for letting me be a part of the English Plus Podcast. Until next time, keep inspiring, keep writing, and most importantly, keep connecting with those hearts out there. See you soon!

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