People Watching

I love to people watch, to invent scenarios about the couple that sat in front of me at the movies or the people in the car that I passed on the expressway. I've observed others so often and can automatically tell when they're pissed or sad or angry. Body language is a formidable sign.

By observing body language, gestures, demeanors, and actions of people that I encounter everyday, I have concocted some pretty decent scenarios. I don't need to hear their conversation - I like to invent my own. Perhaps this all sounds a little voyageur-ish, but lots of good dialogue can be gleaned by simply watching people move about their day. My only mistake is letting my husband in on what I'm doing. He shakes his head and rolls his eyes and wonders if I've seen little green men and spaceships. That's okay, it makes for good fodder in my writing life.

There are many solid ideas in all kinds of places just waiting to be scrutinized by the savvy writer. Stop, look, and listen while at the mall, the car wash, the park, the gym, the fitting room at JC Penny. Don't underestimate the potential of what is happening around you everyday. With each person you encounter, there are a plethora of scenarios just waiting to be contrived. Next time you attend a party, get there early and watch how others enter the room. How do they carry themselves? Do they look straight ahead or scan the room for familiar faces? Do they stand awkwardly against the wall or do they walk right up to a stranger and start a conversation? It's amazing how a knowing glance, a pointed finger, a wink of the eye suddenly becomes the perfect thing for your character to do. Use people-watching to full advantage when developing characters, plots, dialogue and detail. It's free, it's plentiful, and it's fun.

Well, I've got to go. I think a space ship just landed in the park across the street and I want to check it out. Don't tell my husband.