How do I write a dead person?

[Anonymous]

I in the middle of doing a rp on discord and writing a story on wattpad and I gotten to the parts where I have to explain everything with like one or two more arcs and I feel like this is every writer worst nightmare when one of the main characters along with 3 other characters hype someone up to be perfect and basically setting up the events that play out during the story you feel like you have to basically make them a mary sue and my mind keep going to them not being as perfect as everyone in story them out to be throughout the story... I kinda at a with what I want to write and what my brain telling me to write. What should I do?

[rachel776]

For writing a person who is literally dead, look at the TV series Murder One, The Killing and Pretty Little Liars.

For writing a character who is "dead," flat and dull, focus on the emotional need that drives their behavior, such as the need for love, respect or recognition.

[Oliverlogan263]

Dude, that's totally tricky to write a dead character and make it feel real. Here's some ideas:

- Show the impact of their death through other characters' reactions. Grief, mourning, arguments over their legacy, etc.

- Include flashbacks from their perspective so we get to know them. Like thoughts in their final moments or memories others share.

- Have artifacts or keepsakes left behind that symbolize different sides of who they were. Photos, notes, mementos other characters discover.

- Let their absence be felt in the plot. How does the story change course without them? New conflicts or antagonists may emerge.

- Don't be afraid to show they weren't perfect. Everyone has flaws. hint at secrets or issues that complicated their relationships.

- Have other characters debate their true nature as time passes. Memories may evolve or new info could challenge views of who they were.

The key is using their death to drive the plot forward in an emotionally real way. Focus on the impact and mystery surrounding their missing presence rather than just describing things they "would" do now if alive. You've got this!