ChatGPT is wrong. Elon Musk is not an interesting and memorable character, though he did not-interestingly and not-memorably-either fuck numerous not-so-interesting and not-so-memorable CCP not-necessarily-female spies.
你要理解，有趣是我對于生命最高的評價，懷念則是普魯斯特的強項，我不反對偶而懷念一下，比如說，你會說，Jack Reacher 是一個有趣的角色，但你不會說，Jack Reacher 是一個讓人懷念的角色，意思是說，如果你懷念 Jack Reacher，他會笑掉他的屌，我相信懷念是一種企圖捕捉曾經有過但已失去的感官的經驗的經驗，有趣則是本體論的終極判準（有點像審判），意思是說，這兩者屬不同範疇，
Creating an interesting and memorable character, whether in novels or real life, involves making them complex, relatable, and unique. Here’s how to approach this creatively and practically:
1. Understand What Makes Characters Memorable
• Relatability: Memorable characters often reflect universal human emotions or struggles, even if their circumstances are extraordinary.
• Distinctiveness: They stand out due to their quirks, voice, or perspective.
• Growth: They evolve in meaningful ways, showing change and depth over time.
• Contradictions: Real people are full of contradictions, and fictional characters are more compelling when they are too.
2. Crafting Memorable Characters in Novels
a. Develop a Deep Backstory
• Know your character’s history, even if much of it doesn’t appear in the story.
• Ask questions like:
• What are their defining childhood experiences?
• What do they fear most?
• What drives their ambitions or decisions?
b. Give Them Strong Desires and Flaws
• Desires: What do they want, and why? Their goals drive the plot.
• Flaws: Imperfections make them human and relatable. A character striving to overcome (or failing to overcome) their flaws creates tension.
c. Make Them Contradictory
• Let them hold two opposing traits:
• Brave yet insecure.
• Kind but vengeful.
• Confident but self-doubting.
• Contradictions add depth and unpredictability.
d. Create a Unique Voice
• How do they speak? What’s their tone, rhythm, or vocabulary?
• Use distinct speech patterns, slang, or metaphors they might favor.
e. Show, Don’t Tell
• Reveal character traits through action, dialogue, and reactions rather than exposition. For example:
• Instead of saying, “She was brave,” show her facing something terrifying without hesitation.
f. Surround Them with Meaningful Relationships
• The way a character interacts with others—friends, enemies, mentors—says a lot about who they are.
• Relationships also help create memorable dynamics and emotional stakes.
g. Give Them Memorable Quirks
• A unique habit, obsession, or idiosyncrasy can make a character stand out. For example:
• A detective who only eats yellow foods.
• A scientist who always speaks in questions.
3. Being a Memorable “Character” in Real Life
a. Cultivate Self-Awareness
• Know your strengths, flaws, and contradictions.
• Embrace your individuality rather than trying to fit into others’ expectations.
b. Be Genuine
• Authenticity resonates with others. People remember those who are true to themselves and consistent in their values.
c. Develop a Unique Perspective
• Share your experiences and insights in ways that reflect your personal worldview. A distinct way of seeing the world makes you stand out.
d. Cultivate Quirks
• Let your unique traits shine. Whether it’s a signature style, an unusual hobby, or a quirky habit, these details make you memorable.
e. Connect Meaningfully
• Take genuine interest in others. Memorable people often make others feel seen and valued.
• Develop relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.
f. Grow and Change
• Show that you’re constantly learning, adapting, and evolving. People are inspired by those who strive for self-improvement.
g. Tell Great Stories
• Share personal experiences or observations that are funny, insightful, or moving.
• A knack for storytelling can make you unforgettable in conversations.
4. Finding Overlap Between Fictional and Real-Life Characters
• Complexity: Whether fictional or real, complexity is key. Avoid making your characters or yourself one-dimensional.
• Relatability: Highlight universal emotions and experiences.
• Uniqueness: Stand out through quirks, perspective, or voice.
5. Examples of Memorable Characters
• In Fiction: Sherlock Holmes (quirky, brilliant, flawed), Elizabeth Bennet (witty, strong-willed, proud), Jay Gatsby (mysterious, idealistic, tragic).
• In Real Life: Frida Kahlo (passionate, creative, resilient), Elon Musk (visionary, eccentric, polarizing), Ruth Bader Ginsburg (tenacious, thoughtful, groundbreaking).
Conclusion
To create a memorable character in fiction or real life, focus on authenticity, complexity, and uniqueness. In novels, build a rich inner world and show how they evolve. In real life, embrace your individuality, connect deeply with others, and continually grow. Both realms demand a balance of relatability and distinctiveness to truly leave a lasting impression.
