Inspired by the WordPress Daily Post photo challenge for the week: Textures, I started thinking of how that word resonates in my life.
In my writing, I’m always working to add layers of complexity to my fictional characters so that they resonate more believably with the reader. More than just a physical appearance (althouth that is important too), I want to capture the essence of my characters. I’ll be talking more in my blog later about techniques I use to add those layers–texture if you will—but today I’m posting a picture of the picture board I keep next to my computer as I write.
This collage of photos captures various qualities I see in my characters. It also includes images of houses they might live in, local geographical features and relationships.
Keeping that visual in front of me all the time helps me stay consistent in my character development and the texture I add enriches the characters I create and the stories I write. And, yeah, it’s fun to create the textured collage.
Another aspect of texture in my life is the thread or yarn I use to crochet, knit or weave.
It is such a joy to shop for the thread–so many colors and, duh, textures.
I love the feel of the thread as I work it on my needles and the feel of it when the project is complete.
Finally, I love the textures created by the various plants in my gardens. Right now, the sweet potato vines are creating a jungle for my cats to prowl.
