I made the necessary adjustments to the concept, which were necessary because of the changed main character (from father Hendrik to daughter Aaltje). In addition, I set out the stakes by identifying the plot points, midpoint and pinches. I now have a schematic layout of the chapters that are to come, based on these points. I supplement this schema with various events of the characters in the book, but also local and regional events that can be discussed in the story. Because the direct environment has an influence on the characters and events, I also set up a neighborhood study of the living environment. Who were the neighbors, what did they do, how were those families composed and what played a role in their lives.
“I try to deduce the psychological side based on statements in the archive documents and determining their motivation.“
In order to add depth to the story, I want to make a character sketch of a few characters. This also has to be as close to reality as possible, although I know that this will not be entirely successful. At most, I can make an estimate based on available information. That is why I want to keep the character sketch as much as possible in outline. I have largely been able to determine their background, origin, family, living and financial situation from the preliminary research.
I try to deduce the psychological side based on statements in the archive documents and determining their motivation. I use the management drives methodology for this. What motivates someone is shown in six colours. I deliberately choose the six variants (management drives), while there is also a five (Caluwé) and four variants (DISC). In addition to the people manager (gentle), authority (egocentric), manager (objective) and visionary (creative), the six variants also include the entrepreneur (strategist) and nestor (family). A person is never limited to one variant but always has a mixture of multiple drivers. But for characterization we want to bring out the strongest motive. I have worked out the variants below and can then put my main characters behind them.
This allows me to complete the character profile for each person. Meanwhile, I’ve already started writing the fictional part. I do this iteratively, or repetitively. Before I start writing the next chapter, I always reread the preceding chapter.