Five Tips for Writing Queer Characters

Image by Steve Johnson. Via Unsplash

Writing queer characters in your stories can be tricky if you’ve never written them before. However, there are some simple tips to properly represent queer characters in your stories.

Queer Characters in Stories

Queer characters appear in many stories, and you may want to write a queer character too. But how do you do so respectfully, especially if you don’t identify with that identity? 

Research

Before writing about any people you don’t know, research is important. For example, if you want to write an asexual character, it is important to look up a basic definition of asexuality and to learn that romantic attraction is different from sexual attraction.

These simple searches can help clear up misconceptions or give more context to identities you want to write about!

Subtlety

Subtlety can also be very important. You can have queer characters without announcing it, or making a big coming out scene. For example:

• A female character has a girlfriend.

• A male character is attracted to male and female characters.

• A character uses they/them pronouns the entire story.

• A character mentions having multiple romantic partners.

By working these small details into your story, you give queer characters attention without making it seem abnormal.

Avoid Stereotypes

Queer characters in media are often represented in stereotypical roles or don’t show them in healthy relationships. In your story, avoid these stereotypes:

• Bisexual characters becoming “straight” in heterosexual presenting relationships.

• Bisexuality is a “gateway” to becoming gay.

• Asexual characters acting robotic or emotionless.

• Queer characters being predators.

• The word “gay” being used as an insult.

• Assuming one person is the “man” and one is the “woman.”

Along with this, showing healthy queer relationships is important. While you’re allowed to write unhealthy queer relationships, as it’s important to discuss, queer readers will want to see themselves in a positive light as well.

Personal Experience

Another way to write queer characters is by including your own personal experiences, or by asking others to share their experiences. For example:

• Base your story on your own queer experience.

• Ask a queer friend about their experiences.

• Search online for other queer experiences. 

Speaking with other people can really help widen your understanding, validate positive feelings, and help you connect with your readers.

Sensitivity Readers

Speaking of readers, your queer readers can also help you write your story!

One of the best ways to be sure you’ve represented someone’s identity is to ask them. Having multiple readers who can confirm that your writing is respectful can be very helpful. In writing, these readers are called sensitivity readers. 

It allows you to get feedback from readers and correct any mistakes before you publish your story. You can ask for sensitivity readers on StoryForge!

Write Queer Characters!

Writing queer characters is very important because queer people don’t always see themselves represented well in the media. Representations of under-represented identities and experiences are very powerful.

StoryForge is a safe platform where queer stories thrive. You can publish a queer story to the platform, or join all of the queer friendly Circles and chat with other queer writers!