#130: How to Craft Romantic Chemistry & Tension Between Characters
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Feb 20, 2024
Dive into the secrets of crafting sizzling romantic chemistry and tension between characters! Discover how fully developed personalities drive compelling interactions. Learn to balance opposition and harmony for maximum impact. Explore the key ingredients of vulnerability, desire, and resistance that fuel attraction. Case studies from popular stories reveal how to infuse your writing with authentic tension. Plus, gain insights into characters' desires and motivations to elevate your storytelling!
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insights INSIGHT
Chemistry Defined
Chemistry in stories is the energetic exchange between characters, romantic or not.
While surface signs exist (e.g., witty banter, lingering touches), true chemistry stems from a deeper dynamic.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Foundation of Chemistry
Begin with well-developed characters, including their individual goals, motivations, and inner struggles.
Underdeveloped characters will fall flat, hindering chemistry, regardless of other techniques.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Dynamics of Chemistry
Explore opposition and harmony between characters regarding goals, relationship views, communication, power dynamics, and expectations.
This interplay creates a dynamic push-pull that fuels chemistry.
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“ Flat or boring characters who are underdeveloped are never going to light up a scene, no matter how many tricks you pull.” - Savannah Gilbo
If you’re writing romance, the chemistry and tension between your characters can make or break your story. Let’s explore how to create romantic chemistry between two characters in an authentic and compelling way to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
[03:01] The first thing we need to do when creating chemistry between two characters is to have fully fleshed-out characters with their own goals, motivations, and inner obstacles.
[03:42] Capitalize on opportunities for opposition and harmony between your characters.
[07:41] The 3 key ingredients of chemistry are vulnerability, desire, and resistance
[17:51] Writing romantic tension between romantic and non-romantic characters
[22:56] If you want to master crafting irresistible chemistry and tension, I highly recommend studying your favorite stories. This is the best way to improve your writing. You can ask yourself questions like:
What do I like about the chemistry and tension between these two characters?
How did the author play on each character’s vulnerabilities within the relationship?
What does each character like (or desire) about the other (physically, mentally, and emotionally)?
How did the author create resistance between the characters? Why do the characters not want the relationship to move forward?
What can I replicate in my own writing?
And if you need help getting started with your story, check out my FREE Story Starter Kit: 5 Questions To Ask Before You Start Writing. This fillable workbook will help you build out the foundational elements of your story: genre, character, setting, plot, and theme. Grab your free copy here!
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