Getting inspiration for characters from other stories

 


Inspiration comes from all different places, and other works of art are a very common source of it. As long as we're not stealing from other creators, inspiring ourselves with other characters isn't a bad thing - so today, I'll share with you what kinds of characters inspire me personally the most - and which character tropes I just can't help but love.


1. Magic users

Wizards, mages, doesn't really matter - as long as they have some sort of magical power. I always loved stories that included magic - as you could noticed in my list of favorite books of all times.

It's probably the fact that those characters obtain something I could never obtain in real life, and that something makes them unique and strong. That fact alone makes it extremely inspiring to me.


2. Turning into animals

I always felt really close to animals, and felt like I understand them more than humans. When I first encountered a trope of a character turning into an animal it felt really comforting and safe since it's an ability I wish I could posses. It's a beautiful connection of the social mask to the wilder, untamed parts of us; because, underneath everything, we're all just animals.

I myself included this trope in Broken Rule, and hope to include it in my future stories as well.


3. Warriors, fighters, assasins 

Character training to become strong enough to protect their loved ones, character fighting as a means of making living, character forced to fight because of their surroundings and many more - I just love it, when they fight for better lives with blood, sweat and tears.

We all have experienced with fighting, tho it doesn't have to be psychical fighting; having a conflict with a friend or challenging yourself to learn a new skill is also fighting in its own way. That's why I find fighting characters relatable and inspiring.

I particularly enjoy when a character fights from the shadows; as an assassin, strategist, etc.


4. Psychologically broken characters 

We all know how it feels to hurt, and how it feels to be overwhelmed by our everyday worries. Psychologically broken characters can be found relatable, and we can discover darker aspects of human nature through them. By learning their backstories we can see how specific life events shaped them, and why they behave the way they do. 

I always loved analysing those characters. I guess it makes sense I'm at college for psychology.

Special shout-out to characters who went through something extremely hard but pushed through it and kept living.


5. Elves

As I already mentioned, I feel close to animals and I feel more like myself surrounded by nature. Add to that the fact that I enjoy fighting characters, and you're not going to be surprised by the fact that I absolutely adore elves.

I always respected their intelligence and knowledge, and I find it admirable to fight for your freedom and for your people regardless of how much time passes. Elves really teach us about resilience, staying true to your values and how nature gives us everything we need to survive.


6. Characters who fight against what they're told they should be

Whether a princess who'd rather put on an armor and go to battle or a bride who escaped from an erranged marriage, I just LOVE it when someone stays true to themselves and fights for the right to live just the way they are. Those characters taught me a lot in my life, and keep inspiring me everytime.


7. Scholars, inventors, researchers

The persistence and undying spirit of craving knowledge never ceases to inspire me. I wish to be just like that: pursuing knowledge and development even in darkest of places. Characters who are often mocked for staying with their heads in books and researches just work for me. It's them who pushes society forward and bring progress - even if it's quiet one. You don't have to wield a sword to win wars.


8. Protectors

Oh boy, I admire when someone's always ready to step in to protect those in need. With this trope the characters often put others before themselves, and although it shouldn't be this way, I just can't help but enjoy reading and writing them this way.

Getting stronger to protect those who can't protect themselves? Finding a job to support your ill parent? Speaking out when they see someone being bullied? Yes. Yes, yes, yes. Give me more of those.

I hope one day to be a person just like that - but without forgetting my own needs and boundaries.

Under this category I wish to include characters who don't kill animals, but take care of them and cherish them.


9. Weak, but not giving up

I see this trope particularly often in anime. Those characters aren't super strong; super smart; super talented. They do possess one admirable quality, tho - they are persistent. They don't stop, until the work is done. They never give up. 

I think those characters are extremely important and inspiring. They're just like most of us - normal, everyday humans - and they teach us that that doesn't have to stop us from becoming someone other people can look up to.


10. Forced to harsh training

Why do I love tormented characters so much?

Harsh training being forced upon the character (or who didn't have better alternatives) who now has to work their a** off everyday and every night is yet another trope I particularly enjoy in movies and books.

Again, it's about the persistence, withstanding harsh conditions and pushing forward with all you got that really inspires me and motivates me to become a better person.

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