In the world of storytelling — whether in literature, film, or video games — character development is the cornerstone that captivates audiences.

For writers, delving deep into their characters’ motivations, backgrounds, and personalities is key to crafting narratives that resonate. Character interviews offer creators unique insights into their characters’ inner worlds, paving the way for memorable, relatable stories.

Interview questions not only reveal a character’s history and desires but also encourage writers to think critically about the narrative choices that generate tension within the story. By asking targeted questions, writers can discover nuanced traits and complexities, transforming their characters from mere figments of imagination into living, breathing, three-dimensional beings.

It can be challenging to distinguish the writer’s voice from the character’s during the interview process. However, writers should see this as an opportunity to delve deeper and view the questions from the character’s perspective. What a writer uncovers might not necessarily be used in the story, but it can influence how the character evolves within the narrative.

Here are some questions to help get the process started, whether you are a seasoned author or an aspiring storyteller.

1. Do you feel sufficiently resilient enough for change?
2. Do you have a positive or negative body image?
3. Do you have plans for tomorrow? What about next week or next year?
4. Do you need friends?
5. Do you work for someone else?
6. How do you define strength?
7. How do you feel about Mom and Dad, or whomever played the caregiver role in your life?
8. What are your reasons for lying?
9. What causes physical fear in you?
10. What would mentally destroy you?
11. What would you think if you met me in real life?
12. When did they feel loved and accepted?
13. When would you defend a stranger in public?
14. Who or what would you die for?
15. Who’s one person to spend your last day alive on Earth with? They can be dead or alive.