Character Building: The Dating Game

When I hit writer's block, seven times out of ten it means I didn't know my characters well enough. If I knew my hero, I'd know exactly what he planned to do next. If I knew my villain, I'd know exactly what he's been up to in the background. So maybe it's time we writers asked them to dinner.

Day 24: Koi Skeletons

Black koi skeletons swam like they were still alive inside glass walls too thin to hold them. A plain-looking, straight-cut blazer on the floor was cordoned by chains, and smoked occasionally with black magic. Disembodied whispers leaked from vents, and the number of individuals wearing sunglasses indoors was simply too high.

Day 15: Jackson Pollock

They crowded up to a rattling, graffiti-riddled bus with no other passengers and an unshaven driver, who to James smelled of despondence and whisky. The driver lolled out of his chinfolds to blink out the open door at the six of them. If he noticed the gun between James’ shoulders or the threatening arm around Lizzy’s, he didn’t comment.

Day 14: Childhood Enemies

“Let’s leave my father’s alcoholism out of this, operative,” the big guy retorted, stiff as a board. He crossed his arms so the muscles in his shoulders all popped out like mutated grapes. “I’m in charge of this squad, in case you forgot. So stuff it, Tess.”