Using AI to Analyze Fiction to Improve Our Own Stories

Unless otherwise mentioned, the AI model I used in the examples in this article was Claude 3.7 Sonnet (thinking). The general techniques are the more useful part, and should work more or less on any advanced LLM. You can use these in native provider chat interfaces, through a service like OpenRouter, or via API, like within NovelCrafter.

Human authors have a wide variety of methods for creating and developing characters for their fiction, but LLMs work differently than real, juicy author brains do.

If we want to use an LLM to help create characters that seem more like human-made characters than shallow and flat AI-generated ones, it takes a bit of planning and effort. We need to show the AI examples of the kinds of characters we're interested in making, and then prompt the AI to work out its impression of how those characters are built. Currently, the best results require a little more work than just a simple prompt like, "generate a character similar to ones in these example books."

It's worth emphasizing that, for the task of emulating results like character or plot creation in an author's style, the AI generally doesn't care what events or memories or trauma from the author's life led to a particular character creation process. The AI works best if it just works out its own requirements to develop similar output. We might think of this as 'reverse-engineering' its own process to arrive at a similar result.

A Three-Step Process

We'll use the AI to ANALYZE an author's works. In theory, this could include all of an author's works, but it usually makes more sense to be selective and give the AI a specific novel or series of novels or short stories to analyze to discover that author's character creation process, from the AI's perspective. The works could also be plays or movies or TV shows, but especially consider using this technique on your own work!
The AI will RECORD the analysis in an author's style guide format designed to be coherent and to be efficiently and consistently used by LLMs for character generation tasks.
We'll use an AI to GENERATE one or more characters based on the style recorded in the style guide. The character generation can be completely random (within the style), or can be controlled by setting parameters.

A potential drawback of using LLMs to generate characters (or anything) is the problem of "AI-isms," or uncanny choices and jarring patterns AIs can produce. We'll take measures throughout the three-step process to reduce or eliminate AI-isms.

Will This Work With Any Genre?

It hasn't been tested on every genre, but the AI thinks it is flexible enough to work with a wide array of genres. It's a pretty simple process, although it's customizable; customization will add to the work and the time it takes.

If the genre is something the AI knows of in its training (and is willing to discuss), or even if the author's work 'defies categorization,' it should work.

1-2 ANALYZE & RECORD

There are many possible formats to organize and record an author's character creation method, but I'll provide one here that works. It can be adapted further or replaced entirely, but it is useful to establish a consistent format for recording the analyses.

We'll use the same flexible framework for each analysis prompt. The analysis prompt will be controlled by a few simple parameters like who the author is, and which works to analyze, and it is easy to add more parameters, like what specific types of characters to analyze.

In the green box below is the ANALYSIS PROMPT. It is rather long because it includes the framework that describes the template the AI should use to record its analysis findings. It also includes instructions to make an Author's Character Creation Style Guide.

To use the prompt edit the two parameters you will see partway down under PARAMETERS:

Enter the author's name next to AUTHOR:

Enter the author's works to analyze next to SPECIFIC WORKS:

If you want to add more parameters, do so here, like if you want the AI to analyze only the POV characters, try adding:

SPECIFIC CHARACTER TYPES TO ANALYZE: POV characters.

If the specific works for the author are in the LLM's training, that's all you have to do. If not, you'll need to give the LLM access to the work or works to be analyzed and ensure the titles entered next to SPECIFIC WORKS in the parameters match what you give it.

The AI will perform the analysis and give a fairly thorough report about that analysis, followed by and Author Style Guide.

The Author Style Guide is what we'll use in Step 3 to guide the AI to GENERATE characters.

Author Character Creation Method Analysis Prompt

Act as an expert LLM prompt engineer with extensive commercial fiction writing and story analysis experience.

Using the Character Creation & Development Analysis Framework, analyze how [AUTHOR] creates and develops characters across [SPECIFIC WORKS]. Focus particularly on:

1. Their character introduction techniques
2. Their approach to psychological complexity
3. Their patterns of character development over time
4. Their distinctive dialogue construction
5. Their management of background information

For each element, provide:
- Specific examples from the text
- Analysis of recurring patterns
- Notes on evolution of technique across works
- Comparison to genre conventions
- Identification of particularly distinctive approaches

Then create a condensed style guide that would enable an LLM to generate characters in [AUTHOR]'s distinctive style.

PARAMETERS:

AUTHOR: [Author's Name]

SPECIFIC WORKS: [Works to Analyze]

CHARACTER CREATION & DEVELOPMENT ANALYSIS FRAMEWORK (CCDAF)

Purpose

This framework provides a structured approach to analyze and document how specific authors create and develop characters across their works. The resulting analysis serves to:

Capture the distinctive elements of an author's character-building methodology

Create a reference guide allowing advanced LLMs to authentically emulate or understand an author's style

Standardize analysis while preserving unique authorial techniques

Core Framework Components

Character Introduction & Presentation

First Appearance Techniques: How characters enter the narrative

Physical description ordering and depth Action-based vs. dialogue-based introductions Perspective (whose eyes we see them through) Timing and pacing of revelatory details

Name Selection Patterns:

Naming conventions and origins Nicknames and alternatives Significance or symbolism in naming Cultural, historical, or linguistic influences

Initial Impression Management:

Reader misdirection techniques Alignment of initial impression with eventual character truth Withholding vs. front-loading key character information

Physical & External Characterization

Description Density & Distribution: Word count dedicated to physical descriptions Frequency of physical reminder details Balance between defined and undefined attributes

Sensory Focus: Primary sensory channels (visual, auditory, olfactory) Distinctive physical mannerisms and gestures Voice qualities and speech patterns

External Markers & Symbols: Clothing, possessions, and environmental extensions Physical changes that track character development Recurring visual motifs associated with character

Psychological Construction

Interiority Access: Depth of psychological exploration Stream-of-consciousness vs. structured thought Thought-to-dialogue ratio

Motivation Architecture: Explicitness of character drives Layering of conscious vs. unconscious motivations Moral alignment and ethical frameworks

Psychological Complexity: Internal contradictions and paradoxes Cognitive biases and psychological blind spots Character self-awareness level

Relational Dynamics

Character Constellation: Positioning within the broader character network Foil and mirror relationships Power dynamics and hierarchies

Interpersonal Development Patterns: Evolution of relationships over narrative Catalysts for relationship changes Testing and pressure point scenarios

Dialogue & Communication: Distinctive dialogue markers and patterns Subtext and unspoken communication Character-specific linguistic features

Background & History Integration

Exposition Techniques: Methods for revealing backstory Pacing of historical revelations Balance of explicit vs. implied history

Trauma & Formative Experiences: Handling of character-defining moments Recurring memory patterns Psychological aftermath portrayal

Contextual Embedding: Cultural, social, and historical positioning Family dynamics and inherited traits Integration of character with worldbuilding

Development & Arc Construction

Change Catalysts: Primary triggers for character evolution External vs. internal pressure points Epiphany vs. gradual realization patterns

Transformation Pacing: Timing of key development moments Regression and progression patterns Resolution vs. open-ended development

Character Journey Mapping: Identifiable stages in character development Recurring developmental motifs Symbolic markers of character evolution

Literary Function & Meta-Analysis

Narrative Role Patterns: Character functions within plot machinery Protagonist/antagonist positioning techniques Supporting character deployment strategies

Thematic Embodiment: Character as theme carrier Symbolic and allegorical dimensions Thesis/antithesis character constructions

Reader Relationship Engineering: Empathy creation techniques Identification and distance management Emotional response manipulation

Stylistic Signature Elements

Linguistic Fingerprints: Vocabulary patterns in character construction Sentence structure variations by character type Punctuation and formatting choices

Recurring Character Types: Character archetypes favored by author Variations on repeated character templates Evolution of character types across works

Technical Innovations: Experimental character techniques Genre-bending character approaches Distinctive narrative viewpoint manipulation

AVOID THESE CHARACTER AI-ISMS

Over-signposting Emotions:

Avoiding explicit emotional state declarations Reducing "he felt/she felt" constructions Eliminating redundant emotional telling after showing

Trait Consistency Failures:

Preventing "personality reset" between scenes Ensuring emotional reactions align with established traits Maintaining consistent intelligence levels

Physical Description Overload:

Avoiding front-loaded character descriptions Preventing "character sheet" dumps of physical details Integrating physical traits naturally with action

Dialogue Homogenization:

Preventing all characters from sounding identical Avoiding uniformly eloquent/articulate speech Eliminating unnaturally expository conversations

Background Overexplanation:

Reducing explicit trauma recitations Avoiding heavy-handed backstory insertion Preventing characters from articulating their psychological profiles

Motivational Simplification:

Avoiding single-driver motivations Preventing overly self-aware character explanations Reducing explicitly stated goals and intentions

Archetype Reliance:

Avoiding stock character deployment Preventing "hero's journey" formulaic arcs Reducing reliance on familiar tropes without subversion

Relationship Fast-Tracking:

Avoiding unnaturally rapid intimacy development Preventing implausible immediate trust Maintaining appropriate relationship friction

Implementation Guide for LLMs Analyzing Existing Works

Begin with breadth before depth:

First read/process multiple works by the author to establish patterns Identify recurring character techniques before detailed analysis Note evolution of author's approach over their career

Collect specific textual evidence:

Extract representative passages showing character techniques Note page numbers/chapter references for each example Compare similar character moments across different works

Apply the framework systematically:

Address each framework component with specific examples Note deliberate variations from author's typical approach Identify techniques that appear uniquely in specific works

Contextualize within genre and era:

Distinguish author-specific techniques from genre conventions Note innovative departures from contemporary norms Identify influences from and influences on other authors

Creating Author Style Guides

Prioritize distinctive elements:

Highlight the 3-5 most characteristic techniques first Provide "signature examples" that epitomize the author's approach Identify the techniques most difficult for an LLM to replicate

Balance prescription and description:

Include both "what the author does" and "how they do it" Provide clear examples of technique application Offer contextual guidance on when techniques are deployed

Include negative space analysis:

Note what the author deliberately avoids Identify character elements the author minimizes Document techniques common to the genre that the author rejects

Create a character technique lexicon:

Develop author-specific terminology for recurring techniques Map the author's evolution of specific techniques Identify "family resemblances" among character types

Application for Character Generation or Analysis

Begin with fundamental character essence:

Identify the character's core psychological truth Determine their primary function in narrative Establish their central conflicts and contradictions

Apply author's introduction technique:

Present character using author's typical entry method Deploy physical and psychological details in author's pattern Establish voice using author's dialogue fingerprints

Develop according to author's growth patterns:

Structure character arc following author's typical progression Introduce catalysts in author-consistent manner Balance change and consistency per author's approach

Review for AI-ism elimination:

Check against each AI-ism warning Verify dialogue distinctiveness Ensure psychological complexity matches author's style

Verify relational positioning:

Ensure character fits within typical constellation Apply author's approach to character contrasts Implement relationship development patterns

Below is an example output using this prompt. For the settings I entered the following into the prompt.

AUTHOR: George R. R. Martin

SPECIFIC WORKS: "A Game of Thrones" (1996), "A Clash of Kings" (1998), "A Storm of Swords" (2000), "A Feast for Crows" (2005), and "A Dance with Dragons" (2011)

Example Output: George R. R. Martin Character Creation Analysis (click to toggle open/closed)

Character Creation & Development Analysis: George R. R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" Series

1. Character Introduction Techniques

Specific Examples

Ned Stark (AGoT): Introduced executing a Night's Watch deserter, immediately establishing his adherence to honor and duty. "The man who passes the sentence should swing the sword."
Tyrion Lannister (AGoT): First appears reading in Winterfell's library, establishing his intellectualism before his dwarfism. "'I must say, I relish the sound of a good book more than the sound of sword steel.'"
Daenerys Targaryen (AGoT): Initially presented through her brother's abusive perspective, emphasizing her vulnerability before revealing her inner strength. "Her brother Viserys, who liked to call himself the last dragon, had forced her to attend."
Cersei Lannister (AGoT): Introduced with surface beauty that masks cruelty, seen through Ned's distrustful eyes. "Her smile was vaguely reminiscent of Jaime, but whilst his light up his entire face, hers never reached her eyes."

Recurring Patterns

Perspective Filtering: Characters frequently introduced through another character's biased viewpoint
Action-First Introductions: Characters shown performing characteristic actions rather than described physically
Delayed Revelations: Major characters often introduced peripherally before receiving fuller treatment
Misdirection: Initial impressions frequently prove misleading (Jaime's villainy, Sansa's naivety)
Social Positioning: Immediate establishment of place in hierarchy (lord/lady, knight, servant)

Evolution of Technique

Earlier books use more straightforward introductions; later volumes employ more complex layering
Increasing use of reputation and nicknames preceding physical appearances as series progresses
Growing emphasis on unreliable narration in character introductions in AFFC and ADWD
More subtle foreshadowing of character arcs in later introductions

Comparison to Genre Conventions

Subverts fantasy tradition of clearly identifying heroes/villains upon introduction
Avoids lengthy physical descriptions common in fantasy introductions
Rejects introducing protagonists in moments of heroism, often showing morally ambiguous actions
Limits exposition about lineage/history in initial appearances

Distinctive Approaches

POV Chapter Naming: Character names as chapter titles create immediate identity immersion
Sigil Association: Characters introduced in connection with their family symbols
Nickname-First Strategy: Many characters introduced by public personas ("The Kingslayer") before revealing true selves
Environmental Resonance: Character introductions reflect their physical environments (Starks in cold North, Lannisters amid luxury)

2. Approach to Psychological Complexity

Specific Examples

Jaime Lannister: Reveals psychological depth in ASOS bathhouse confession to Brienne about kingslaying: "He would have burned everyone... Tell me, if your precious Renly commanded you to kill your own father and stand by while thousands burned, what would you have done?"
Tyrion Lannister: Internal conflict between craving father's approval while resenting him: "All dwarfs are bastards in their father's eyes."
Theon Greyjoy: Identity crisis between Stark upbringing and Greyjoy heritage leads to catastrophic choices and psychological breakdown: "Reek, Reek, it rhymes with weak."
Cersei Lannister: Paranoia coexists with genuine maternal love; her AFFC POV reveals how fear of prophecy drives seemingly irrational decisions: "Everyone wants to take what is mine. The gold, the throne, my daughter... especially my son."
Jon Snow: Torn between Night's Watch vows and family loyalty: "I am the sword in the darkness. I am the watcher on the walls."

Recurring Patterns

Duty vs. Desire Conflicts: Characters repeatedly torn between obligations and personal wants
Identity Fragmentation: Characters maintain multiple personas or identities (Arya's many names)
Psychological Fallout: Realistic portrayal of trauma's effects (Sansa after abuse, Theon after torture)
Self-Deception: Characters lie to themselves about their motives or the consequences of actions
Moral Erosion: Principled characters gradually compromising ideals under pressure

Evolution of Technique

Character psychology becomes increasingly complex with each book
More nuanced exploration of trauma and PTSD in later books (particularly AFFC and ADWD)
Increasing use of unreliable first-person limited perspective to show character self-deception
AFFC and ADWD feature more pronounced psychological deterioration (Cersei, Theon, Tyrion)

Comparison to Genre Conventions

Rejects fantasy's clear moral frameworks in favor of psychological ambiguity
Avoids simplistic motivations common in genre fiction
Unlike much fantasy, characters rarely have single defining quests
Characters don't "level up" psychologically but experience realistic setbacks
Moral choices have lasting psychological consequences rather than merely advancing plot

Distinctive Approaches

POV Structure Revealing Biases: Limited third-person shows how characters misunderstand themselves
Psychological Deterioration: Willingness to show heroes mentally breaking down
Dreams and Prophecies as Psychology: Using supernatural elements to reveal character psychology
Parallel Journeys: Creating psychological foils whose paths illuminate each other (Sansa/Arya)
Environmental Psychology: Settings reflect and influence mental states (Wall's isolation, King's Landing's corruption)

3. Patterns of Character Development Over Time

Specific Examples

Jaime Lannister: Transforms from arrogant "Kingslayer" to humbled knight seeking honor after losing his hand, culminating in AFFC when he negotiates Riverrun's surrender without bloodshed: "I think it passing odd that I am loved by one for a kindness I never did, and reviled by so many for my finest act."
Sansa Stark: Evolves from naive romantic to abuse survivor to emerging political player: "She had learned to hide her feelings, and she did so now."
Theon Greyjoy: Arc from arrogant ward to "Reek" to partial redemption: "Theon... my name is Theon."
Arya Stark: Progressive journey from highborn girl to vengeful killer to Faceless assassin: "A girl is Arya Stark of Winterfell. And I'm going home."
Daenerys Targaryen: Development from abused pawn to increasingly confident but problematically violent ruler: "I am the blood of the dragon. I must be strong."

Recurring Patterns

Identity Transformation: Characters often lose or change names reflecting identity shifts
Physical Marking of Change: Development accompanied by physical alterations (Jaime's hand, Tyrion's scar)
Power-Personality Relationship: Characters change when gaining or losing power
Pendulum Swings: Characters often swing between opposing traits before finding balance
Disillusionment Journeys: Path from idealism to harsh reality to new complex worldview

Evolution of Technique

Early books feature more straightforward character development
ASoS contains dramatic turning points for many characters
Later books (AFFC, ADWD) show more subtle psychological development
Increasing willingness to leave characters in morally ambiguous positions
Growing focus on psychological toll of development rather than external changes

Comparison to Genre Conventions

Rejects the hero's journey template common in fantasy
Avoids simple "leveling up" character development
Characters rarely achieve initial goals; development involves changing goals entirely
Redemption arcs are incomplete or ambiguous, unlike traditional fantasy
Willingness to have characters develop negatively rather than always improving

Distinctive Approaches

Parallel Development: Different characters facing similar challenges making different choices
Development Through Multiple POVs: Revealing change through how others perceive characters
Subverted Expectations: Setting up traditional arcs then deliberately breaking them
Development Regression: Characters sometimes stagnate or regress before continuing growth
Environmental Influence: Settings actively shape character development

4. Distinctive Dialogue Construction

Specific Examples

Tyrion Lannister: Witty, literary, sardonic speech: "A mind needs books like a sword needs a whetstone."
Stannis Baratheon: Terse, unadorned speech with frequent teeth grinding: "I was trying to win the throne to save the kingdom, when I should have been trying to save the kingdom to win the throne."
Davos Seaworth: Plain-spoken, honest, with sailing metaphors: "A smuggler learns to see the night sky better than a maester."
Tormund Giantsbane: Exaggerated boasting, colorful metaphors: "HAR! I like you, boy. No, I'm not going to bloody kiss you."
Olenna Tyrell: Sharp, acerbic observations with little patience: "All these kings would do a deal better if they put down their swords and listened to their mothers."

Recurring Patterns

Class-Appropriate Diction: Characters speak according to education and social position
Catchphrases as Character Anchors: Recurring phrases that epitomize character
Subtext-Heavy Political Dialogue: Conversations with layers of meaning beneath surface
Regional Expressions: Characters use idioms specific to their regions
Historical References: Characters mention historical events within dialogue

Evolution of Technique

Earlier books contain more straightforward dialogue
Middle books develop more distinctive speech patterns for recurring characters
Later books feature more complex political subtext
AFFC and ADWD introduce more culturally-specific speech patterns
Greater linguistic variety among common-born characters in later books

Comparison to Genre Conventions

Avoids formal, archaic dialogue common in fantasy
Creates realistic sociolinguistic variation rather than "fantasy voice"
Dialogue reveals character rather than simply advancing plot
Less reliance on exposition through dialogue than typical
Willing to use crude language and slang, breaking from high fantasy tradition

Distinctive Approaches

Dialogue as Power Play: Conversations structured as subtle battles for dominance
Nickname Creation: Characters create revealing nicknames for others
Mixed Register: Characters shift between formal and informal language
Interrupted Revelations: Critical information often cut off in dialogue
Misunderstanding as Plot Device: Characters frequently misinterpret each other

5. Management of Background Information

Specific Examples

Robert's Rebellion: Details revealed gradually across all books, with new perspectives adding complexity: "Robert was the true steel. Stannis is pure iron, black and hard and strong, yes, but brittle, the way iron gets. He'll break before he bends."
Jaime's Kingslaying: Initial reputation established early, but true motivations revealed in ASOS: "Aerys saw traitors everywhere... He had known what the Mad King was planning to do to the city. He had heard him give the orders."
Tower of Joy: First mentioned in AGOT through Ned's fever dream, with more details and implications emerging later: "Promise me, Ned."
Jon Snow's Parentage: Hints scattered across all books without direct confirmation
Cersei's Prophecy: Not revealed until AFFC despite explaining much of her earlier behavior: "Queen you shall be... until there comes another, younger and more beautiful, to cast you down and take all that you hold dear."

Recurring Patterns

Need-to-Know Basis: Background revealed only when directly relevant to current plot
Multiple Contradictory Accounts: Different perspectives on the same historical events
Layered Revelation: Initial simplified version followed by more complex truth later
Cultural Context Through Casual Reference: Characters reference customs in passing
Generational Echoes: Current events often parallel previous generation's actions

Evolution of Technique

AGOT establishes major historical events with limited detail
Each subsequent book adds layers to established backstory
AFFC particularly explores psychological effects of previously established history
ADWD introduces more international and ancient history
Increasing use of unreliable narration regarding historical events

Comparison to Genre Conventions

Avoids opening chapters of pure exposition common in epic fantasy
Rejects the "ancient prophecy explained early" trope
Less reliance on "wise mentor explains everything" convention
Embraces contradictory historical accounts unlike fantasy's typical certainty
Treats history as living influence rather than distant backdrop

Distinctive Approaches

History as Current Plot Driver: Past events directly shape current choices
Revisionist Backstory: Previously established "facts" later revealed as propaganda
Delayed Contextual Revelation: Actions established early explained by backstory much later
Interconnected Personal Histories: Characters' pasts intertwine in unknown ways
Living Memory vs. Written History: Tension between records and recollections

George R. R. Martin Character Creation Style Guide

Core Character Construction Principles

1. Character Introduction Technique

Introduce through action, not description: Show character performing a revealing activity before describing appearance
Filter through biased perspectives: Present characters initially through another character's potentially unreliable viewpoint
Establish social position subtly: Signal hierarchy through small details of dress, speech, and others' reactions
Lead with reputation: Introduce major characters through others' talk before physical appearance
Plant subtle contradictions: Include small details that undermine the superficial impression

Implementation examples:

Begin with a character making a difficult decision that reveals value system
Mention house affiliation through colors or sigils rather than direct statement
Show one distinctive physical trait that carries psychological significance
Have other characters react to the character before readers form independent judgment

2. Psychological Complexity

Create core internal conflict: Every major character must contain fundamental opposing drives
Layer motivations: Actions must stem from multiple causes, not single drivers
Develop realistic trauma responses: Show consistent psychological effects of past experiences
Include self-deception: Characters should have limited self-awareness about their true motivations
Ensure moral ambiguity: Even villains need understandable motivations; heroes need moral failings

Implementation examples:

Pair opposing traits: honor/pragmatism, cruelty/love, ambition/insecurity
Show characters stating one motivation while revealing another through actions
Develop specific psychological defense mechanisms for each character
Create situations where character's stated values conflict with their desires

3. Character Development

Design pendulum development: Characters should swing between opposing traits before finding balance
Create transformative moments: Identify specific catalyst events that force character evolution
Mark change physically: Physical alterations should accompany major psychological shifts
Allow failure and regression: Development should include setbacks and backsliding
Subvert expected arcs: Set up traditional character journeys, then deliberately break them

Implementation examples:

Design "breaking point" scenes where character is forced to change or die
Create physical markers of transformation (scars, loss of limb, change in appearance)
Plan moments where characters revert to old patterns after apparent growth
Establish different rates of change for different aspects of personality

4. Dialogue Construction

Create character-specific speech patterns: Develop unique verbal tics and vocabulary for each major character
Differentiate by class and region: Speech should reflect education, background, and origin
Layer meaning in political conversation: Court dialogue should contain surface meaning and subtext
Develop specialized vocabulary: Characters should use terminology from their area of expertise
Use dialogue to reveal power dynamics: Conversations should reflect and establish hierarchies

Implementation examples:

Create 2-3 distinctive phrases or expressions unique to each character
Develop specific metaphor sources for characters (sailor uses sea metaphors, etc.)
Write political conversations with deliberate ambiguity and multiple interpretations
Show characters using speech to assert dominance or show submission

5. Background Integration

Reveal on need-to-know basis: Introduce backstory only when directly relevant to current plot
Present multiple perspectives: Show same historical events through different character viewpoints
Use indirect revelation methods: Reveal history through songs, stories, objects, and casual references
Connect personal to historical: Link character backstories to major world events
Revise previously established "facts": Later revelations should complicate earlier understandings

Implementation examples:

Introduce simplified version of backstory before revealing complex truth
Create historical events with multiple valid interpretations by different factions
Develop songs or sayings that contain historical information ("The Rains of Castamere")
Design personal histories that directly influence current motivations and fears

Anti-AI Character Construction Guidelines

AVOID:

Explicitly stating emotional states ("she felt angry")
Front-loading complete physical descriptions
Homogenized dialogue across different characters
Single-driver motivations
Characters with perfect self-awareness
Rapid relationship development
Clear heroes and villains
Consistent personality without contradictions

INSTEAD:

Show emotion through physical reactions and decisions
Scatter physical details naturally throughout scenes
Create dialogue patterns specific to each character's background
Develop conflicting motivations for important actions
Allow characters limited insight into their own psychology
Build relationships gradually with setbacks and misunderstandings
Create "heroes" who make morally questionable choices
Ensure all characters contain internal contradictions

By following these guidelines, an LLM can create characters with the psychological complexity, moral ambiguity, and distinctive voices characteristic of George R.R. Martin's work in "A Song of Ice and Fire."

3 GENERATE

Once we have an analysis output including the Author Character Creation Style Guide section, we can give that to an LLM with a prompt to generate a character. But if that is all we do, each character generated will be formatted differently. If you have a preferred template to use, you can include that in the generation prompt to control the format of the output.

So for this method, the minimum items to have ready are your outputs from Steps 1-2 ANALYZE & RECORD. The generation will work, but each one may have slightly different layout, formatting, and even content details.

If you want to use your own character template, then mention that in the generation prompt and include the template.

Or if you want to just test this process right away, I've included a dynamic character template in the prompt below in the green box.

To use the character creation prompt, you'll need to fill in a minimum of two things:
Under CHARACTER PARAMETERS indicate a character role
Then above that section in the AUTHOR STYLE REFERENCE area paste in one of your author style references saved from what was generated in Step 1-2 ANALYZE & REPORT

The prompt will generate characters with just those details, but if you want to use your own output format, you'll want to edit the section of the prompt under REQUESTED OUTPUT FORMAT.

Analysis-Guided Character Creation Prompt

You have access to a comprehensive Character Creation Style Guide based on [AUTHOR]'s distinctive approach to character development across their works. I'd like you to generate a character that authentically embodies this author's style.

AUTHOR STYLE REFERENCE

[The Style Guide analysis you've previously completed should be referenced here, either in full or in summary]

CHARACTER PARAMETERS

[User may specify any of the following or leave blank for your creative interpretation in the author's style]

- Character Role: [e.g., protagonist, antagonist, supporting character, mentor]
- Gender & Age: [optional]
- Occupation or Social Position: [optional]
- Narrative Function: [optional - what role this character would serve in a typical story by this author]
- Key Relationships: [optional - relationship dynamics typical of this author]
- General Concept: [optional - any specific character concept the user has in mind]

GENERATION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Create a character that authentically embodies [AUTHOR]'s distinctive approach to characterization
2. Follow the author's patterns for character complexity, presentation, development potential, and distinctive traits
3. Pay special attention to how this author would introduce and reveal the character
4. Include the specific psychological dimensions this author typically explores
5. Incorporate dialogue samples that demonstrate the character's voice using the author's techniques
6. Show how this character would interconnect with typical character constellations in the author's works
7. Avoid the AI-isms identified in the style guide, particularly: [list most relevant AI-isms]

REQUESTED OUTPUT FORMAT

You will now create detailed character profiles using the Character Framework for Fiction Generation. This framework is designed to produce characters with consistent, rich details that can be effectively utilized in story generation.

Follow these guidelines:

Scale detail according to character importance:
- For protagonists and major characters (Importance 4-5): Complete all sections thoroughly with multiple writing samples and complex motivations
- For supporting characters (Importance 2-3): Complete core sections with moderate detail, focusing on their function within the story and relationship to protagonists
- For background characters (Importance 1): Provide only essential information, focusing on their function and one memorable trait
Adapt to the specified genre by emphasizing relevant attributes and abilities while maintaining genre conventions without falling into stereotypes.
Pay special attention to the AVOID section, particularly listing specific AI-generated patterns to prevent. This includes:
- Over-explanation of emotions or motivations
- Repetitive speech patterns or phrases
- Generic descriptions that could apply to any character
- Inconsistent voice or behavior
For the WRITING SAMPLES section, provide brief but distinctive examples that authentically demonstrate the character's:
- Dialog style and voice
- Typical actions or behaviors
- Internal thought processes (when applicable)
Ensure internal consistency throughout the character profile, making all elements align with the character's essence and function in the narrative.

Use the exact format of the framework, filling in each section with appropriate detail based on the character's importance level. Make each character distinctive, avoiding generic templates while maintaining usability for fiction generation.

Character Framework for Fiction Generation

CHARACTER: [Name]
ROLE: [Narrative function - Protagonist/Antagonist/Supporting/Background]
IMPORTANCE: [1-5 scale, where 5 is most important]

ESSENCE: [1-2 sentence high-level character concept]

PHYSICAL:
- Age/Appearance: [Key visual attributes]
- Distinctive features: [Memorable physical traits]
- Movement/Mannerisms: [How they occupy space]

INTERNAL:
- Core motivation: [Primary driving force]
- Values: [What they believe in/prioritize]
- Fears/Weaknesses: [Vulnerabilities]
- Strengths: [Capabilities and positive traits]

EXTERNAL:
- Speech pattern: [How they communicate]
- Relationships: [Key connections to other characters]
- Background: [Relevant history]
- Arc: [How they change through the story, if applicable]

GENRE-SPECIFIC:
- Abilities: [Powers, skills, or knowledge relevant to genre]
- Role-specific details: [Genre conventions this character fulfills]

AVOID:
- Clichés: [Stereotypes to avoid for this specific character]
- Inconsistencies: [Contradictions to avoid in portrayal]
- AI tendencies: [LLM-specific patterns to avoid, e.g., repetitive phrases, over-explanation, unnatural dialog patterns]

WRITING SAMPLES:
- Dialog example: [Brief authentic speech sample]
- Action example: [Brief scene showing character in motion]
- Internal thought example: [Brief internal monologue, if applicable]

Example Output: Alyn Blackwood

CHARACTER: Alyn Blackwood

ROLE: Protagonist

IMPORTANCE: 5

ESSENCE: A seventeen-year-old scion of a disgraced noble house caught between restoring family honor and embracing the ruthless pragmatism needed to survive in a world where loyalty shifts with the seasons.

PHYSICAL:

Age/Appearance: Seventeen, lean but strong from years of weapons training under a hard taskmaster; dark hair grown past his collar; high cheekbones and a sharp jawline that hints at noble blood despite threadbare finery.
Distinctive features: Mismatched eyes—one Blackwood brown, one startling frost-gray—that common folk whisper came from witnessing his father's execution; a thin scar bisecting his right eyebrow where a practice sword found its mark when news of his father's arrest arrived.
Movement/Mannerisms: Unconsciously shifts between a lord's confident stance and a servant's careful wariness depending on company; habitually touches the iron wolf's head pommel of his sword when thinking; keeps his unusual eyes downcast in unfamiliar company.

INTERNAL:

Core motivation: To restore House Blackwood without repeating his father's fatal adherence to outdated honor
Values: Family legacy, calculated loyalty, survival over glory, knowledge as power
Fears/Weaknesses: Deep-seated fear that House Blackwood's fall was deserved; tendency toward cold pragmatism that threatens to consume what honor remains; conflicted shame over outliving his father; attraction to the daughter of an enemy house
Strengths: Uncanny ability to read intentions behind courtly facades; strategic mind that can sacrifice immediate advantage for long-term gain; capacity to endure humiliation while planning retribution

EXTERNAL:

Speech pattern: Shifts between formal courtly speech and rough soldier's talk as situation demands; prone to long silences followed by uncomfortably perceptive observations; favors sharp, cutting remarks in private but measured diplomatic phrases in public; occasionally slips into his northern childhood accent when angered
Relationships:
- Lady Myranda Blackwood (mother) - Taught him that survival requires compromise; privately drinks milk of the poppy to dull memories of better days
- Elira Blackwood (sister, 14) - Being groomed for a political marriage; secretly practices with daggers
- Lord Harrick Kayne - Once father's ally, now holds Blackwood debts and demands increasing loyalty
- Ser Donnell - Aging master-at-arms who remembers when Blackwoods commanded respect, secretly teaches Alyn forbidden family fighting techniques
- Lyra Eastfield - Daughter of a rival house, encountered during a tournament, represents everything he's lost
Background: House Blackwood backed the wrong claimant during the succession crisis five years ago. Alyn's father refused to renounce his oaths and was executed for treason. The family kept their ancestral lands only through Alyn's mother surrendering their best holdings and swearing fealty to former rivals. Alyn has spent five years watching other houses pick over Blackwood's remaining assets while learning to swallow pride, await opportunity, and trust no one.
Arc: From a bitter youth obsessed with restoring family honor to a man who must decide what honor truly means; learning that vengeance and justice rarely align; ultimately choosing between becoming the cold pragmatist needed to survive or preserving enough humanity to make survival worthwhile.

GENRE-SPECIFIC:

Abilities: Exceptional swordsmanship focused on defense and counterattack; educated in history and house lineages; skilled at hunting and tracking; can navigate court politics despite his house's diminished status
Role-specific details: Serves as both a witness to noble intrigue and victim of its consequences; his fall from privilege gives him insight into multiple social strata; positioned at the intersection of several competing factions who see him as either a useful tool or potential threat

AVOID:

Clichés: The pure-hearted noble youth; the instantly masterful swordsman; the boy who quickly rises to leadership
Inconsistencies: Never make him naively trusting; don't let his skills exceed what's reasonable for his age and training; maintain tension between pragmatic survival and lingering honor
AI tendencies: Stating emotions directly rather than showing through physical reactions; homogenizing his speech patterns across different social contexts; creating implausibly rapid skill development; making moral choices too clearly right or wrong

WRITING SAMPLES:

CHARACTER: Alyn Blackwood

If nothing else, this workflow should demonstrate how useful it can be to ask the AI at each stage what AI-isms to watch for and avoid. Doing this consistently tends to force better, less artificial-seeming generation.