Behind the Scenes: Crafting the Character: Inspiration

I always start with a general concept of my new character. For this important character, my concept is “I need a strong woman.”

Now comes the fun part. Who is my Strong Woman? Who could help me understand her? Where will I find my inspiration? Even better, who will be my inspiration?

I need to do my research.

Looking for inspiration. I research strong women of history. I learn each of their stories, looking for themes. Here are a few I consider.

Cleopatra was known for her ability to charm and influence powerful people. Her liaisons with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony add spice. I could use this in a family saga.

Joan of Arc’s determination to lead French troops to victory paints her as fearless in a male-dominated military. Badass.

Queen Elizabeth I wielded her power and was known for her diplomatic skills, strong leadership, and strategic mind. She impacted the geopolitical and cultural landscape of the entire world.

These role models help me begin to paint my Strong Woman. Yet I want more. I look for more inspiration.

Let me wander into more recent times.

Harriet Tubman oozed bravery in leading slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad. She connected in a very personal way with a bold mission.

Rosa Parks’ act of defiance by refusing to give up her bus seat was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. The power of this courageous act inspired larger movements and challenged existing power structures. She also connected in a personal way with her bold mission.

Mata Hari, a famous exotic dancer and alleged spy, used charm and seductive power to navigate dangerous and male-dominated arenas using her wits and allure. Her brushes with scandal might spice up my future storylines.

My Strong Woman is starting to become more real. I now realize she is much more than just strong. She has multiple layers of complexity, internal conflict, external controversy, and even personal imperfection. Yes, she is becoming real.

I dive in for one final round of reading for inspiration. I move to the Bible.

Esther used her influence for a larger purpose. It took courage to use her position to save her people from genocide in a hostile environment.

Jezebel was known for her strong personality as a powerful and controversial queen. She was a woman who did not shy away from using her influence to achieve her goals.

Delilah is best known for her pivotal role in the narrative of Samson & Delilah. She betrayed the strongest man in the world to save her people. Although Delilah is often portrayed as a seductress, her motivations are never clearly stated. Other interpretations view her as a tragic figure caught between her feelings for Samson and her loyalty to her people.

I feel myself drawn to Delilah. My Strong Woman now has a name.

Welcome to the Path Series™, Deliah Boaz.

Next up: Why Delilah?