Think back over the last few story arcs your characters have been part of.  Or, if you’re thinking up a new character, take a moment and think about some of the stories you’d like them to participate in.

Are there any sorts of common threads you notice when you consider those plots?  What about the events that led your character to be part of those things — is there a particular kind of hook that will reel her in time after time?  Are there any skills he falls back on repeatedly?

You might have the start of a theme there.  It’s also possible that your character’s theme might intersect with his or her personality traits — is your character prideful?  Stubborn to a fault?  If these traits get him into or out of trouble on a regular basis, you’re looking at a theme.

When Bricu’s player and I talk about future RP stories, I try to keep some of their themes in mind:  Bricu’s cleverness and tendency to scheme, Threnn’s stubbornness and desire to make things right.  There’s also often the reminder of a shared dream of theirs:  once the world is a safe place, to grow old surrounded by their children, grandchildren, and orphans they might someday adopt.  Of course, to achieve that aim in the first place, they’ll need to survive villains, enemies, and the world at large.

What are some themes you’ve noticed while crafting and participating in stories for your characters?  How can these influence and inspire future RP?

Also, for bonus Monday slacker-time, I’ll leave you with my new favorite Bricu and Threnn song (which got me thinking about this post!), Sting’s “The End of the Game.”

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