When we consider backstory, we see it is a crucial element in any novel or memoir. Backstory adds depth and complexity to characters and plot. But how do you use it effectively without overwhelming your readers or slowing down the narrative? In this post, we’ll explore 10 ways to use backstory in your writing, and we’ll highlight some common mistakes to avoid.
What Is Backstory and Why Is It Important in Writing?
Backstory refers to the events and experiences that happen before the start of your novel or memoir. It’s what shapes your characters’ motivations, fears, and desires. When used well, backstory adds richness to your narrative and helps readers connect with your characters on a deeper level.
10 Ways to Use Backstory in Memoir vs. Novels
For memoir writers, backstory functions a little differently than in novels. Since a memoir is a reflection on the author’s real life, backstory often serves to contextualize key moments. While novelists create fictional pasts for their characters, memoir writers use backstory to explain personal events, emotional growth, or formative experiences that influence the main narrative.
Memoir backstory also has an added layer of authenticity and emotional resonance because it’s grounded in reality. However, like in fiction, memoirists must balance how much of their past they reveal at once. The trick is to provide enough backstory to make the present compelling without overwhelming readers with unnecessary details.
1. Drip Backstory in Slowly
Instead of overwhelming readers with all the details at once, reveal your character’s past gradually. A slow, steady reveal builds intrigue and keeps readers invested.
What Not to Do: Avoid info dumps—long, dense passages of backstory that stop the story in its tracks.
2. Make Backstory Relevant to the Plot
Use backstory to explain character motivations or drive the plot forward. If a backstory detail doesn’t affect the present, leave it out.
What Not to Do: Don’t include backstory that doesn’t have an impact on the character’s current journey or decisions.
3. Reveal Backstory Through Dialogue
Let characters naturally reveal parts of their backstory through conversations. This adds depth without slowing the plot.
What Not to Do: Don’t make characters awkwardly state known facts. Dialogue should flow naturally, not feel like an exposition dump.
4. Use Flashbacks Sparingly
A flashback is a narrative device that shows events from the past as if they’re happening in real time, in a fully dramatized scene. This allows the reader to experience the moment vividly, as though it’s unfolding in the present. Flashbacks are powerful but should be used with caution. A well-placed flashback can shed light on pivotal moments in a character’s past.
Memoir writers often use flashbacks to return to specific memories that explain personal transformations or life-changing events. Just like in fiction, memoir flashbacks should illuminate something relevant to the current timeline.
What Not to Do: Too many flashbacks can disrupt the pacing of your novel or memoir.
5. Tie Backstory to Character Motivation
Ensure that your character’s backstory explains their present behavior. This gives readers insight into why your character makes certain choices.
What Not to Do: Avoid backstory that feels disconnected from the main plot or doesn’t influence the character’s actions.
6. Show, Don’t Tell
Instead of telling readers about your character’s past, show how it impacts their present through actions and behavior. For example, a character with trust issues may hesitate to form close relationships, hinting at their backstory.
What Not to Do: Don’t rely on long internal monologues to explain the past.
7. Use Sensory Details for Backstory
Ground backstory in sensory experiences like smells or sounds. This makes the flashback or memory more vivid and emotional for readers.
What Not to Do: Avoid sensory overload. Too many details can overwhelm the reader and detract from the main story.
8. Let Readers Fill in the Gaps
Allow readers to infer parts of the backstory on their own. This can create a sense of mystery and make the eventual reveal more satisfying.
What Not to Do: Don’t leave critical parts of the backstory too vague—readers need enough information to understand the story.
9. Show How Backstory Affects Relationships
Backstory is essential in showing how characters’ relationships evolve. Conflicts or bonds formed in the past can explain present tensions or alliances.
What Not to Do: Don’t let backstory drive all character dynamics. Present interactions should develop relationships, too.
10. Use Backstory to Create Conflict
Use unresolved issues from the past to add tension to the current plot. A buried secret or a past failure can create conflict and keep readers engaged.
What Not to Do: Don’t let the backstory overshadow the main plot. The past should enhance the present, not dominate it.
Avoid These Mistakes When Applying Any of the 10 Ways to Use Backstory
Don’t Overload the Beginning: Introduce backstory gradually; readers don’t need to know everything upfront.
Avoid Clichés: Overused tropes, like tragic childhoods, can feel stale unless you bring a fresh angle.
Don’t Use Backstory as a Crutch: Characters should still be accountable for their actions, regardless of their past.
In Conclusion: Backstory, when used effectively, can enhance the emotional depth of your novel or memoir. By introducing it gradually, making it relevant, and tying it into character motivation, you’ll keep your readers engaged without slowing down the action. Mastering the balance between past and present will enrich your story and deepen the connection between your characters and your readers.
If you’ve waited to explore your writing dream, you have likely seen many trends come and go in the world of literature. I’ve been coaching writers of all ages for over a dozen years. Let’s see if we can put my experience in the publishing industry to good use in the service of your long-deferred writing goals.