How to Develop a Character with Mutism in Your Writing?

Writing a character with mutism requires understanding and careful portrayal. Mutism, often a spectrum, can offer a unique dimension to the character, making it memorable and intriguing.

Understanding Mutism

Mutism, while often perceived as purely lack of speech, is more complex. Depending upon the character’s psychological stance or physiology, the reasons are numerous. Sometimes they may be born without the ability to speak; other times, trauma could lead to their silence.

Expressive Writing

Without dialogue, expressive writing becomes crucial. This means delving into the inner thoughts, feelings, and responses of the mute character. How the character conceptualizes situations and plans their actions paint layers to their persona.

Body Language and Gesture

Non-verbal communication forms a vital tool for crafting believable mutism. The character can express through gestures, body posture, eyebrow movements, or finger movements. Observant readers will look forward to these subtle cues, making the reading process interactive.

The Watson Factor

An additional character who can understand and interpret the mute character’s emotions can serve as a relief for the readers—like the ‘Watson’ to your mute ‘Sherlock Holmes’. This character becomes the communication bridge, ensuring continuity in the narrative.

Importance of Non-Verbal Communication

Communication isn’t limited to speech alone. Your character can interact using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, common in real life too. These devices range from basic versions with buttons to complex ones that produce articulate sentences to represent thoughts.

Writing: An Overlooked Tool

Physically writing can provide a reliable, easily understandable method to express thoughts. Whether it’s traditional pen-paper or modern digital communication forms, this handy tool stands as an elegant alternative to spoken words.

Sign Language

Creating a character mastering sign language can be challenging, but with meticulous research, this task is achievable. Understand the difference between actual sign languages like ASL (American Sign Language) and varieties like SEE (Signed Exact English).

Use of Gestures and Facial Expressions

Creating a personified mute character involves utilizing expressions and gestures skillfully. Tone variations with vocalizations or articulating physical responses can beautifully narrate the mute character’s frame of mind.

Fantasy Elements

If you’re writing in fantasy realms, the creative window widens. Concepts like telepathy or illusions can bestow communication benefits in non-traditional ways to the mute character.

Selective Mutism

Selective mutism, an anxiety disorder, can affect the ability to speak, depending upon the character’s environment and triggering conditions. Writing about such a character requires a delicate understanding of their mental status and anxiety causes.

Conclusions

Creating a mute character involves comprehensive understanding, patient research, and sensitive writing. Use various non-verbal communication tools, effectively deploy expressive writing techniques, and consider the complexity of their mental or physical state. Writing a character with mutism is a challenging but rewarding endeavor, enhancing the narrative’s depth and readers’ engagement.