Characterization and setting are two important aspects of a novel. They serve to cement the characters and their place in the world so that the reader can identify with both. Description is not only established physical reality of sound, sight, smell, taste, touch, but they can also be tiny, unnoticeable bridges, or transitions. Using transition to build characterization is an effective way to combine techniques in a way that moves the plot forward. In addition to change in locations, from one place to another and back again, the transitions can be between moods and between points of view. Physical Description as Transition Change character mood. Example: A man is dreaming of running on a beach toward a beautiful woman. His muscles move easily propelling him forward on strong, limber legs. He wakes, moaning with phantom pain from his amputated legs. Change POV. Example: Sue stirred, (her POV) afraid of every noise in the decrepit old house. While she slept, a ghost might cut her throat. (transition) She brushed a cobweb from her cheek. It flicked through the dark and landed on Hank's face. (his POV) He snatched it from his nose. Tonight I'll pretend I'm a ghost and slit her throat. Introspective Transition: More than internal dialogue and can be used in various ways: From: mental to physical. Example: The fake diamonds in the statues eyes glittered at him. What a mean mockery of art and antiquity! (mental) He grabbed a hammer and smashed the statue's head. (physical) mental to emotional. Example: Dolly studied the cold uncaring attitude in Gordon's eyes. He never really loved me. He was only using me. (mental) Her mouth trembled. I hate him! (emotional) changing viewpoints. Example: Charley slumped against the lamp post. I'll never make it home. I'm going to die right here. (Charley's POV) Sam grabbed his shoulders and shook him. (Sam's POV) "Can't hold your booze, can you," he snickered. If he can't hold his liquor, why drink at all? one place to another. Example: Millie crushed the letter in her hands. (her location) She hated Ralph for not including her in his will. He knows I need the money. While she fought back tears, Ralph sat at his desk, staring at the black gun lying on his will. (his location) He'd show them. I'll make them sorry for only wanting my money and not my soul. Check out more Transitions. Good luck and keep writing! Let me know how these tips work for you. Send me a note via the Contact Me page. Or, you can post a note on my Yahoo message board: Subscribe to bonniehamre Powered by groups.yahoo.com Web Design by Bel Oso Productions All contents Copyright © 1995 - 2007. All rights reserved.