By
Sandra Wilkins
Since my last entry on Classic and Cozy, I have typed the final word on the
second book in my new series. Excuse me while I clap my hands with glee
and squeal like a little girl on Christmas morning! I’m sure my fellow
authors know the exhilaration of such a feat. I was able to pull it off
again. I’m not a charlatan after all. Yippee!
But, the high is short-lived when I sit down to work on the next story in the
series. I’m a few chapters in and still getting a feel for the new
characters—especially the male protagonist. In my mind, I know what he
looks like, yet, I need to know more. What’s he like? Does he have
a temper or is he mild-mannered? Funny or serious?
As I’ve been pondering these details, I came across this quote from humorist
and fellow Okie, Will Rogers: “There are three kinds of men. The
ones that learn by reading. The few who learn by observation. The
rest of them have to pee on the electric fence for themselves.” I’ll even
be so bold to add there is another type of man. One who doesn’t even care
to acquire more knowledge than he already thinks he possesses.
Now, I imagine Mr. Darcy from “Pride and Prejudice” gleaned all his wisdom from
thick tomes. Josh Flynn, the quick-witted carpenter in my last published
book, “Gwen’s Honor”, would certainly have studied others around him. I
realize some people learn by doing, but, you know, I sure would hope a person
would be smart enough not to get hurt in the process. And, for those who don’t
care to learn…Well, that’s more like villain material to me.
So, I’m curious as I stare at the blank pages before me. What kind of
male characters do you like to read about?
Sandra Wilkins is busy writing another series while home educating
her two daughters. Ada’s Heart, Rose’s Hope and Gwen’s Honor
are her first three published wholesome historical romances. Go to www.sandrawilkins.com to find out
more about her and her books.
Interesting question, Sandra. As for the kind of person I like to read about, I'd have to say doing (and making mistakes). The kind of person I gravitate to in real life is more the bookish type. Not a surprise, I guess, since I'm a writer - and who doesn't love Mr. Darcy.
ReplyDeleteGreat question. I like to read, and write heroes that are real, have flaws, are not always perfect, wonderful and so romantic that the heroine swoons. I like real men, like the ones that exist around me.
ReplyDeleteIf there's one thing I can't stand it's a man who lacks courage and fortitude. If a man has those qualities I can abide any flaws.
ReplyDeleteI like real men, too, but I'm not necessarily into the hunky type. I prefer sensitive and caring.
ReplyDeleteHi Sandra--
ReplyDeleteI love Will Roger's quote! I am mixed on which I prefer to read. On one hand I love to read the Mr. Darcy type, but on the other, it's interesting to read the "pee on the electric fence" type.
Victoria--