: Re: How do I write in the language of a strict, serious character without using too much exposition? I am working on a series of short stories and am having trouble bringing out the characteristics

@Debbie451

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How to make the strict, critical, perfectionist character come alive?

Conflict.

That's usually a good answer to make any character come alive, but it is particularly apposite for someone who will be deeply irritated by the sloppiness he sees all around him. Perhaps he sees workers in his company doing work that is not up to his high standards and criticises them for it. He sees his criticism as useful and constructive and cannot understand why they react with resentment. Perhaps he is shocked by his girlfriend's messy habits, and quarrels with her as a consequence, almost forgetting in the heat of the moment that he loves her.

You have already mentioned another source of conflict, namely cross-cultural tensions. Such tensions are a very common reason why two good people can end up angry with each other despite both having benign intentions. That is a sad situation in real life, but in a book it helps to keep the reader hooked. The often bitter relations between Japan and Korea provide many potential flashpoints, as do the differences in manners and customs between those two countries.

It will be all the more satisfying to see your characters eventually come together to help each other if they have successfully overcome painful conflict between them.

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