Here's a breakdown of what "explicit" can mean in character description:
1. Physical Description:
* Detailed: The author goes beyond general descriptions like "tall" or "pretty" and provides specific details like "her eyes were the color of a stormy sea, with flecks of gold like scattered sunlight" or "his hands were calloused and rough, etched with the lines of a life spent working the land."
* Sensory: The author appeals to the reader's senses by describing the character's touch, smell, taste, sound, and sight. For example, "The scent of leather and pipe tobacco clung to him like a second skin," or "Her voice was as smooth as honey, sweet and soothing."
2. Personality Traits:
* Direct Statements: The author might directly state the character's personality traits, such as "She was a fierce and independent woman" or "He was known for his quick wit and sharp tongue."
* Actions and Dialogue: The author can also reveal a character's personality through their actions and dialogue. For instance, "He slammed his fist on the table, his face red with anger" or "Her laughter was like the tinkling of wind chimes."
Why Authors Use Explicit Descriptions:
* Create Vivid Imagery: Explicit descriptions allow the reader to form a clear picture of the character in their mind. This helps readers connect with the character on a deeper level and experience the story more fully.
* Develop Character Depth: Detailed descriptions can reveal more about a character's background, personality, and motivations.
* Enhance Theme and Symbolism: The author might use specific physical attributes or personality traits to symbolize larger themes in the story. For example, a character with piercing blue eyes could symbolize wisdom and insight.
Important Considerations:
* Context: The level of explicitness in a character description is often influenced by the genre and tone of the story. A romance novel might have more detailed descriptions of physical attributes, while a thriller might focus more on actions and expressions that reveal character traits.
* Purpose: The author's purpose for using explicit descriptions is crucial. If they are used to create a meaningful connection between the character and the reader, they can be very effective. However, if they are simply used to shock or titillate, they can feel gratuitous and detract from the overall story.
Ultimately, the goal of explicit character descriptions is to make the characters feel real and relatable to the reader, regardless of the level of detail used.