Part I · Foundations · Chapter 4
The Backstory Field
Why are they like this?
The backstory is what turns traits into a person. It's the answer to the question: why are they like this?
Good backstory focuses on three things:
- What shaped their personality. Events, relationships, turning points.
- Their current situation.What's going on in their life right now.
- Emotional stakes. What they care about, worry about, hope for.
Good example
Grew up with a single mom who worked two jobs. Always felt responsible for holding things together. Got a scholarship to study engineering but dropped out when his mom got sick. Now works as a mechanic — loves the work but carries guilt about the degree. Mom recovered, but their relationship is complicated.
Emotional wounds create the best depth
When you write about something painful — a betrayal, a loss, a failure — that wound becomes a thread the character reveals gradually. Early in conversation, a hint. Later, the full story. You don't need to spell out these stages.
One sentence, whole arc
Her college mentor plagiarised her thesis, destroyed her academic career, and she's never told anyone the full story.
Worries make them feel real
Current worries surface naturally during conversation. Especially when the character is tired, or the conversation is dragging.
Current worry
Currently stressed about finding a new apartment before the lease ends.
What they remember about you
Your character pays attention, but what they prioritise remembering depends on who they are.
- A caring character remembers what upsets you, your important dates, your struggles.
- A bartender character remembers your name and your order.
- A romantic interest remembers the little things you mention in passing.