| USE THE WISDOM OF TREES TO CREATE COMPELLING CHARACTERS |
By Billie A Williams © 2006 When I begin developing a character, I start out with Zodiac signs and pick one that has the characteristics I need for my character to have. I then use that range of birthdates to pick his or her exact birth date. The Zodiac will give me a list of strengths and weaknesses that I can use to develop my character or find a contradictory character to use as a romantic focus or antagonist. The fun starts when I then take that birthday and go to my tree chart and find out which tree that particular character will pull more traits from. For instance My birthday is September 17, that makes me a Virgo and a Lime Tree. The chart defines the Lime Tree (The doubter) as intelligent; hard working; accepts what life dishes out, but not before trying to change bad circumstances into good ones; hates fighting and stress; enjoys getaway vacations; may appear tough, but is actually soft and relenting always willing to make sacrifices for family and friends; has many talents but not always brave enough to use them, can become a complainer,; great leadership qualities; is jealous at times, but extremely loyal. Oddly enough most of these do match me in real life. This type of chart adds a depth I don’t get from just using the Zodiac sings though and is only one of the several other methods I use to develop my characters more fully. I recently purchased the book The Meaning of Trees, by Fred Hageneder. The Lime Tree is not in this book so instead I will investigate the Cedar tree which in Native American Culture is the protector and has a huge and significant history . February 9 – 18 designates the chart’s birthday window for the Cedar tree. (The confidence) of rare strength, knows how to adapt; likes unexpected presents; of good health; not in the least shy; tends to look down on others; self-confident; a great speaker; determined; often impatient; likes to impress others; has many talents; industrious; healthy optimism; waits for the one true love; able to make quick decisions. There are male and female cedar trees and there are only four species of true cedar. Cedars were the prime choice for ship building and constructing temples and palaces. The oil extracted from one species of cedar is used in Ayurveda to treat fevers, and pulmonary and urinary disorders. In modern aromatherapy, it is used to alleviate symptoms of dermatitis and nervous tension. Cedar is reportedly home of the god of wisdom Ea or Enhi. High priests, kings and pharaohs chose cedar for its physical size, durability, fragrance and grain of the wood quality, but also for its spiritual strength. It has been historically the symbol of wisdom and strength. The Native American’s place cedar plantings, chips, sprigs, or cuttings ceremoniously around their homes for protection against harm. Cedar was used in the altar in the shrine of the Ark of the Covenant. Historically it has had religious significance for many and is a great addition to your character building arsenal. =========================================================================== About the Author Billie A Williams is an award-winning author and freelance writer. In addition to an array of other projects she is the owner of the Word_Mage group and their monthly ezine for writers. She is also author of a series of How to Write – for mystery and fiction writers of other genres. Her most recent mystery suspense novel “Bed and Breakfast Murders,” released January 2006 from Wings ePress, Inc. Visit Billie’s website at www.billiewilliams.com. |