Writing tips from Texas author DiAnn Mills<\/p>\n

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At appropriate intervals, characters (and readers) need to take a break from a story’s intense action. Writers plunge their characters into one abyss after another by a variety of means. Sometimes, the reader needs to enjoy life, breathe, and experience humor. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Humor. Not slapstick, goofy, cartoon-like humor, but quirky traits and unique circumstances that show characters as fully developed individuals with a funny side. This applies to protagonists and antagonists alike. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Johann Wolfgang von Goethe writes, “Nothing shows a man’s character more than what he laughs at.”<\/em> <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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How can a writer accomplish this? Here are a few ways to lighten life in novels by using already-established character traits: <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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   The reader appreciates a serious character with dry wit. Although other characters may not understand the sarcasm or play on words, the reader will. The situation becomes a private joke, allowing the reader to be part of the creative process of the story. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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      Banter between characters moves the reader to value the intelligence of the story’s players and the wisdom of the writer. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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         Assigning unique traits that are unlikely yet convincing shows a real character. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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            Exaggerate a character trait for comic relief. If a character’s only purpose is to amuse, give them a role in the plot where the display of humor is fresh and unexpected. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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               Using sarcasm to an extreme is hurtful, so avoid that technique for the protagonist, unless it is a flaw the character is trying to overcome. Readers expect antagonists to use sarcasm. Imagine a protagonist who vows to rid sarcasm from their personality pinned against an antagonist who easily has their feelings hurt. This can be humorous, but a writer needs to carefully consider a condescending protagonist. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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                  Unexpected situations can provide a chuckle. Think about pest control commercials. An unsuspecting couple opens the door to a low-life roach. We laugh because it’s impossible, but we also understand how unwanted pests can invade our homes. Use humor to ease the character through a tough situation. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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                     Avoid too many verbs that tell how a character laughs, unless the story is a comic book. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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                        Overdone humor or inappropriate ridicule will cause a story to fall flat. The goal is for humor to display the writer’s creativity and to show a well-rounded character. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

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                        The light side of protagonists and antagonists paves the way for highly developed and well-rounded characters. Using a comical technique is essential for a writer who specializes in humorous stories, and a sprinkling in the most serious of stories adds flavor and variety. <\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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