Stanley’s reputation preceded him. His gloriously decorated two-tone brown/cream Chelsea boots, black jeans, smart large collared white shirt with its black flowery design and his cream Harrington bomber jacket spoke of his flamboyance. That inimitable happiness he displayed wherever he went. His face told a different story. Although in his twenties, his face was sharp, rugged and weathered with a large heavy beard and a scar down his right cheek

Picture © The Open University

So, for this exercise, in around 200 words, I had to develop a character based on my observation notes I’d made.  I chose to pick characteristics from a couple of observations for the person I created.

Now I like to try to create a story in every piece I write but, with only 200 words, it’s pretty challenging.  especially as most of my work is in the 3,000 word range and some up to 8,500 words.

Anyway, here’s my character.  have a read and let me know what you think.

Stanley’s reputation preceded him.  His gloriously decorated two-tone brown/cream Chelsea boots, black jeans, smart large collared white shirt with its black flowery design and his cream Harrington bomber jacket spoke of his flamboyance.  That inimitable happiness he displayed wherever he went.  His face told a different story.  Although in his twenties, his face was sharp, rugged and weathered with a large heavy beard and a scar down his right cheek.

To get the respect he wanted, he told people it came from a nasty encounter with a knife wielding maniac.  It actually came from a nasty encounter with a wooden outdoor sunlounger after tripping over a toy in his mum’s backyard as a teenager.  Only his sister witnessed the accident but never said a word, banking the knowledge for a bit of blackmail in later life.

Today however was not that day.  Stanley was doing something special today.  With his best clobber on, he was on his way to ask for his girlfriend’s hand in marriage.  I just hope she gets my text and kicks her other fella out before he gets there.  If not, Angry Stanley is going to make an appearance and it won’t be pretty.