Born in 1932, in Reading, Pensylvannia, John Updike is best known for writing the trilogy of 'Rabbit, Run,' 'Rabbit Is Rich,' and 'Rabbit at Rest'. Updike was an award-winning novelist, a poet, a journalist, but the Rabbit books have stayed in people's minds as the most memorable of all his achievements because of one feature - the main character.
Updike was master of characterisation. He would use evocative adjectives in the detailed but precise descriptions of them. This would not only paint a vivid picture of the people we were reading about. It would often elicit a reaction of disgust, or wonder at their actions. He uses other features of his writing, such as the setting, as the extension of character which strengthens the impressions of the protagonist in readers minds. We know that Janice, Rabbit's wife, is painted as a pathological creature. And we know this not from Janice, or Rabbit himself, but because we encounter her for the first time in her own chaotic house which is strewn with cigarettes and half-empty glasses of liquor. Her head is described as having three hairs left on it which also adds to the impression that she is in need of help, as she doesn't seem to care about her health, or personal hygiene. Rabbit is a middle-aged man with the heart and mind of a six year old. He assumes no responsibility for his actions, and he runs. That's the only thing he knows how to do. It's fascinating because the author takes the trait of immaturity to the absolute extreme. Reading about this character's adventures is fascinating and funny because his immature reactions build the tension.
Great characters are priceless. And I would certainly direct you to look at Updike to learn more about those.
In John Updike's case, the man behind the novels is as fascinating as the work itself. I could speak about this man forever... Fortunately, you can see for yourself. He gave multiple interviews in his time where he would share his tips for great writing. I've personally found them incredibly inspiring. You can still find most of them on the Internet.
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