A good friend recently introduced me to a show called Gilmore Girls. I know, I know. I’m late to this particular party. But better late than never, right?I’m just starting season four, and I have to tell you, this show is a great study for fiction writers. Because it has….
A cast of quirky characters
From Sookie the chef, to Jackson the produce guy, to Babette the cat-loving neighbor, to Kirk who pretty much works everywhere. This show is teaming with a cast of quirky and lovable characters. Each character is different and completely memorable.
- Application for writers: What quirks can you give your characters to set them apart and make them more memorable for your readers?
Witty dialogue
This show has witty, fast-paced dialogue down to an art form. In fact, it’s dished out so quickly that I find myself paying extra careful attention so I don’t miss anything. Not only are these exchanges entertaining, they do so much to flesh out each of the quirky characters.
- Application for writers: Are you giving the dialogue in your story the attention it deserves? Are you bringing your characters to life through dialogue?
Two steps forward, one step back
Lorelai’s relationship with her parents. Lorelai’s relationship with Luke. As viewers, we’re hoping for progress. We want Lorelai and her parents to have a breakthrough. We want Lorelai and Luke to admit they love each other. Each episode gives us little glimpses, tantalizing tastes. And then something happens to thwart the progress, leaving us hungry for more.
Too much satisfaction leads to boredom. Too much tension leads to frustration. But a good balance between the two leads to hooked viewers.
- Application for writers: Are you maintaining the delicate balance between tension and satisfaction in your story? Or are the scales tipped to heavily to one side?
Charming setting
Luke’s Diner, Lorelai and Rory’s home away from home. Miss Patty’s Dance Studio, where the hilarious town meetings take place. Taylor’s grocery store, where Rory and Dean first kissed. The setting is just as much a character in this show as the people. Stars Hollow is charming and quirky and somewhere I’d love to visit.
- Application for writers: Are you giving the setting in your novel a distinct personality?
I could keep going. Because the show has other things too. Like dynamic relationships. Interesting subplots. And all kinds of romance. But for the sake of brevity, I’ll stop with these take-away tips. Quirky characters, witty dialogue, a healthy tension/satisfaction ratio, and a charming setting.
Let’s Talk: What shows do you like? What have these shows taught you about writing?
