Sorry for the late post today folks-- been having some internet troubles.
Something very interesting happened to me yesterday. I met one of my characters.
You know that record-scratch sound they use in movies when the main character realizes something that makes them stop in their tracks? Yeah, that was me.
The guy was a costume character at a local theme park. He was dressed in a turn-of-the-century safari outfit and had an impeccable upper-class British accent. When he interacted with me (in the persona to match his outfit, of course), it was like I was meeting someone famous. I was stunned. Words left me.
Here, in front of me, was someone who shouldn't exist-- but he did. Sort of. Even though he was an actor playing another character, he was flawlessly playing MY character. The quirks, the voice, the look-- it was all there.
He must have thought I was the weird one. There I was, star-struck by a dude in a safari outfit. Complete with silly hat. Oooookay, crazy lady.
It was hugely strange, but also really neat, in a way. It was like someone decided to make the movie in my head and I was watching them film it.
And now, I have more material, too!
I know some writers base characters off of real people, but have you ever met one you've made up in real life?
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Yes, sadly; my characters are based off real people, and their stories aren't pretty.
But LT, I hope you took lots of pictures, and asked loads of questions; and looked for all the world like a start struck teenager. It would do you both some good.
You dress up like that to be noticed; and as a writer, you can't ignore your intrigue. Like star crossed lovers; the writer and the character come face to face. Its bound to happen. Just be glad you experienced it.
..........dhole
That's weird and also seriously cool. No wonder you were star-struck!
Rick-- there is still time :)
Donna-- Sadly, I left my camera at home, and I was so startled I couldn't talk to him much. I tried to hang around and just watch him interact with other park guests but I felt REALLY creepy after a few minutes of that, so I didn't get my fill. Of course, now I just want to know more.
Fairyhedgehog-- I know! It was so surreal!
It happened to me once when attending a seminar. The presenter walked up to the podium and I gasped. I had never seen her in the flesh before, but she was the embodiment of an important character in one of my novels. My friends couldn't understand until I explained later why I sat there with my mouth open. Luckily, paper and pen were readily at hand so I could jot down details that I could later incorporate into my fictional character. It was an incredibly moving experience.
I've met people who remind me a lot of my characters, and I know exactly how you feel! It's a strange, but very cool experience. :)
Judith-- that's so neat! I only got to interact with this guy for a few seconds each time, but I did watch him like a stalker for as long as I could feasibly hang around.
Michelle-- Totally! I felt like I was in another world for a few minutes.
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