Most people are basically introverted or extroverted. The spectrum runs from the pathologically shy person who stammers to the cocky, attention seeking person. The speech patterns and behavior of each will vary. For instance a shy person would likely use indefinite words like �maybe� and �perhaps.� In expressing an opinion, he or she would likely tack on something like, �Don�t you think?� The shy person would likely imagine more threats and fear embarrassment. On the other hand, the more extroverted person will use more aggressive language. He might try to be the center of attention or dominate a conversation at a meeting or party. Like the shy character, his perceptions are flawed but on the opposite end of the spectrum. These are extreme examples. Depending on your character, his basic personality might land in the middle or lean a little one way or the other.
Another pairing of traits is the optimist and pessimist. The spectrum can range from the Pollyanna who always sees the silver lining or Eeyore who wonders, �Why bother?� And how about the cynic? The cynical voice can sound either cruel or humorous, depending on the situation.
Take a moment and think about different people you know. Who is more introverted or extroverted? How do they present themselves? When talking one-to-one or in public? If you�re in a public place like a restaurant, grocery store, a party, listen to the different styles of speech. Take time to observe others whenever you can. Are there any key phrases they use over and over? Are they critical or complimentary? Apologetic? Self deprecating or conceited? You won�t always necessarily find extremes in every situation. For the purpose of this exercise we�re going to use extremes in personalities.
The exercise:
Choose one situation from the list below:
� a date
� a visit to a grocery store
� shopping for clothes
� a family reunion
Now choose one of the basic personality traits:
� introverted
� extroverted
� optimist
� pessimist
� cynic
� dishonest
� honest
Write at least one page: Write a scene from the point of view of your
character. You may use first person or third. Be as outrageous and extreme
as you want. You may use interior monologue. Use dialogue where applicable.
You may use more than one personality trait character in your scene. For
instance you could have your extremely extroverted character talk about
melons with a shy, stammering introverted character in the produce aisle of
a grocery store. Or a brutally honest woman can help the pessimist character
in the fitting room. The combinations are as limitless as your imagination.
If you have time, write the scene from another personality trait character�s
point of view. As always, have fun with this!
For more information on voice, see these books:
Writing Fiction Step By Step by Josip Novakovich
The Fiction Writer�s Workshop by Josip Novakovich
Creating Fiction edited by Julie Checkoway
