“The vista from her bedroom window was of rolling green dales, seamed and braided with gray stone walls that ran on forever, into infinity, and she thought it was the most beautiful view she’d ever had in her life (although she’d had some rotten views), so that she was in love with the landscape before she fell in love with Jonathan, who in some ways was just a kind of extension and embodiment of the countryside.” (Kate Atkinson, Case Histories)
Writing Exercise: Character Development through Setting and Emotion
Key Writing Practice Development Techniques Illustrated by the Quotation:
Integration of Setting and Character Emotion: The quotation beautifully intertwines the character’s emotional state with the description of the setting, showing how the landscape influences her feelings and perceptions.
Symbolism and Metaphor: The landscape serves as a metaphor for the character’s feelings towards Jonathan, suggesting that her love for him is deeply rooted in her love for the countryside.
Descriptive Language: The vivid and detailed description of the setting helps to create a strong sense of place and atmosphere, which is crucial for immersing the reader in the character’s world.
Writing Prompt:
Write a 500-word scene where your protagonist experiences a significant emotional moment that is deeply connected to their surroundings. Use the setting to reflect and enhance the character’s emotions. Your scene should include:
A detailed description of the setting that goes beyond mere visual details to include sensory experiences (sounds, smells, textures).
The protagonist’s internal monologue or reflections that reveal their emotional state and how it is influenced by the setting.
A symbolic or metaphorical connection between the setting and the protagonist’s feelings or situation.
Evaluation Criteria:
Integration of Setting and Emotion: The scene should clearly show how the setting influences the protagonist’s emotions and vice versa. Strong responses will seamlessly weave the character’s feelings into the description of the setting.
Use of Symbolism and Metaphor: Look for creative and meaningful use of symbolism or metaphor that adds depth to the character’s emotional experience. Strong responses will use these literary devices to enhance the reader’s understanding of the character.
Descriptive Language: The setting should be vividly described using rich, sensory details. Strong responses will create a palpable sense of place that immerses the reader in the scene.
Follow-up Questions for Workshopping/Revision:
How does the setting reflect or contrast with the protagonist’s emotional state?
Are there any sensory details that could be added or enhanced to make the setting more vivid?
How effectively does the use of symbolism or metaphor convey the protagonist’s feelings?
Is the protagonist’s emotional journey clear and compelling throughout the scene?
Are there any parts of the description that feel disconnected from the character’s emotions?
Recommended Reading:
“The Dead” by James Joyce (from Dubliners): This short story exemplifies the integration of setting and character emotion, particularly in the final scene where the snow-covered landscape reflects the protagonist’s inner turmoil and epiphany.
Examples of Strong vs. Weak Responses:
Strong Response:
The protagonist stands on a windswept cliff, the salty tang of the sea air mingling with the tears on their cheeks. The crashing waves below mirror the turmoil in their heart as they reflect on a lost love. The jagged rocks and the relentless ocean become symbols of their pain and resilience.
Weak Response:
The protagonist is sad as they walk through a park. The trees are green, and the birds are singing. They think about their lost love and feel even sadder. The description lacks depth and fails to connect the setting meaningfully with the character’s emotions.
This exercise should help writers develop their ability to use setting as a powerful tool for character development, creating scenes that are rich in both atmosphere and emotional depth.
Leave a comment