How do I develop or decide on a character to build has been a question among many readers. Actually, I’ve had to think about that question quite awhile because to me they just happen! Apparently when I am writing a book I simply get into the flow, and I often don’t think about why I want a certain character, but who do I need in a certain role to make the plot evolve.
It is safe to say my plot determines the characters I choose to develop. As my plot moves forward I “need” someone to play it through, I draw a character in my head and then proceed to paint him or her into the “whole picture” I have in mind. Sometimes that person is a very minor character because I have a scene that needs extension or maybe I want to make a certain point to the reader. Often, that character is quite secondary to the plot, but is necessary for the numerous mini or sub-plots that make the story more interesting and, hopefully, intriguing.
Mac, the lobsterman, was one such character. Keeping Faith may have been just fine without him, and you may not even remember him, but I thought he added another aspect of humanity. He was the crusty old fisherman who helped Patrick through a few tough months. He was honest and wise, and his insights about life were important to share with Patrick during one of his most crucial transition times—from the priesthood into a completely different journey.
Mac is a man who has learned lessons the hard way through a litany of experiences and by pursuing a career filled with hard work, difficulties and hardships. He has survived them all, and is an honorable person. What Mac shares is straight from the heart. He’s a no nonsense kind of guy who has few material possessions, save his weathered boat, but he has a wealth of street smarts or “sea knowledge” as the case may be. His life is an open book if anyone cares to read it. Maybe that is why Patrick admires him so much. He’s everything Patrick isn’t—transparent and truthful with himself and everyone else.
So, as you can see, a character may play a limited role, but is always significant in some way and serves a purpose in the story. He or she may simply extend the plot, help bring a setting into view or create a focus on a central idea, but is never, ever useless.
Every character I develop represents a person of importance, of value, and just like in life, some may play smaller parts, but no individual is a “spare” or “extra” in my books or in my life.