Tidbit from Mayhem: Analyzing location/setting...

I've returned from a GREAT little conference: Mayhem in the Midlands (Omaha, Nebraska). Managed to shed bookmarks, postcards, chocolate, and (not by choice!) a duffel bag that contained ALL the giveaways and workshop materials of my traveling companion, Margaret Grace, and all my lovingly hand-picked signing pens. And a pair of shoes. And sundry books, toiletries, etc. My favorite pull-over sweater for traveling. These items are most likely still riding around in the trunk of an Omaha Yellow Taxi cab (number unknown), more's the pity.

BUT, I will quit sniffling about the stuff and focus instead on the conference itself, which was as friendly, interesting, and well-run as ever. And, as promised, I'm going to spend this week blogging about some of the tidbits I picked up during the sessions and while gadding about. One is never too old to learn! :-)

Tidbit for today, from author William Kent Krueger during the Location! Location! Location! panel:

People talk about location/setting as being a "character." If you have a novel in which setting takes a very lead role, then analyze its "character" elements:

• What is the face of your location?
• The voice?
• The culture?
• How about your location's "background" (i.e., history)?
• Strengths and weaknesses?

I've not thought about setting this way before, and find the possibilities intriguing. Can you think of other character traits or aspects you could examine in order to bring your setting to life?