Developing Your Character

Character Name: Ralph
Occupation: Jack In the Box Drive Thru Night Shift Manager
Age: 34 years and 364 days old

On the eve of his 35th birthday, Ralph realized that his life had not turned out like he planned. He was almost 35, still living with his overbearing mother, and stuck like a lifeless drone in his going-nowhere job. Ralph had always sat by passively and let life strain through his fingers, not able to grasp some meaning or importance. The 30 something fast food employee had always given some excuse for his current situation, but the time had come when change could no longer be held back by the dam comprised of Ralph's many insecurities.

This brisk September morning, the daybreak brought a boldness to Ralph’s being. Brazenly, he bounded out of bed, peered into the mirror, and belted out a cathartic groan. "Somehow," he thought while running his fingers through his brown bed bent locks, "this day will be different, it has to be."

Normally, Ralph would still be sleeping at this hour, but this morning he awoke, imbued with an unknown energy, a revived spirit. His eyes were open wide for the first time like the aperture of a camera, consuming every minuscule detail. They focused on his battered alarm clock. “7:33” appeared, faded red, on the rectangle digital face. “I am up way too early,” he remarked rather lively.

Triumphantly, Ralph emerged from his sub floor lodgings, also known as his mother’s basement, and was met with a pair of lukewarm Pop Tarts resting on an olive green plate and a glass of OJ made from concentrate, cloudy with pulp. Apparently, this was his mother’s idea of a hearty breakfast. Nonetheless, Ralph appreciatively scarfed down the pre-packaged pastries and the watered down juice. Now that he had a “square meal” in him he could finally take on the day.


**NOTE** This is an example of how you should develop your character. Remember there is a length requirement of 225 Words. I will also be adding to this character over time and to his story.