MShades

June 14, 2012 7:16 pm I have found in my writing that these well-built characters are the most fun to write, and it does come down to knowing everything about them. As ctrosejr mentioned, though, I have had characters basically turn to me and say, "We don't want to do this anymore" and completely derail the story. It's unpleasant, but it means I either have to make some characters who will do it, or find a new story for these stubborn ones. I'd add one point, though: while it's a boon the the writer to know every last detail about the characters, it's not always necessary for the reader to know everything. It can sometimes be a struggle to include only what's necessary and not overburden the reader with details that just aren't relevant to what's going on.