How to Properly Write a Trans Girl Character

Writing a trans girl character can be a complex and nuanced task. As a trans woman with lived experience, I can provide insight into the challenges and steps involved in crafting a character that is both authentic and respectful. Whether you are a seasoned writer or venturing into this territory for the first time, the right approach can significantly enhance your story and avoid potential pitfalls.

Engaging with Trans Individuals

Direct Engagement: The most effective way to gain insight is by directly engaging with trans individuals. If you personally know a trans woman, that is an ideal situation. Seeking Input: If you do not know any trans individuals, consider posting a request on social media or through a community forum. Many trans individuals would be willing to help. However, it's crucial to verify that you are engaging with an actual trans person and not a trans activist, as the lived experience of a person is vital for authenticity.

Avoiding Clichés and Overused Narratives

Writing a trans woman as a villain or a killer in a crime novel is an overused cliche. While it can be a compelling narrative, it often lacks originality and can be unhelpful in portraying the diverse experiences of trans women. If you want to include a trans girl character in a story, it's important to approach the portrayal thoughtfully.

Base on Reality: To pull off a nuanced and genuine portrayal, it's best to base the character on the real-life experiences and perspectives of trans women. This can be achieved by interviewing several trans women or reading deeply about their lived experiences. The complexity of being a trans woman is nuanced and multifaceted, and this could come across poorly if not understood.

Casual Detail: If you feel less comfortable writing a deep trans character, consider making their trans identity a subtle detail. The character should be primarily defined by their personality, relationships, and goals, rather than just their gender identity. This approach can still add depth to your story without taking the center stage as the defining characteristic.

Character Development and Nuance

When writing any character, it's important to understand that they are more than just a summary of their identity. Trans women, like all individuals, have complex lives and interests beyond their gender identity.

Richness in Character: A character whose entire being is defined by their gender identity can quickly become one-dimensional and boring. Instead, focus on creating a character who is multifaceted and who has a range of relationships, goals, and experiences. As a trans woman myself, I want a character who is more than just their trans identity—someone who wants to love and be loved, achieve their goals, and overcome life's challenges.

Examples: The movie Predestination and the novel Breakfast on Pluto have done an excellent job of portraying the emotional and psychological struggles of being a trans person while also delving into the character's motivations and desires.

Building a Protagonist with Depth

When crafting a trans girl protagonist, it's important to avoid pigeonholing her into a specific mold. Even if she starts as a feminine boy, her journey should be fluid and rich in detail. The following are some key considerations:

Ambition and Aspirations: A trans woman is not just defined by her transition but by her dreams and ambitions. Consider how she interacts with the world and the challenges she faces as she navigates her identity. Relationships: How does she form and maintain relationships with family, friends, and romantic interests? This will give readers a deeper insight into her character. Personal Growth: Focus on her journey of self-discovery and personal growth as she transitions. This allows the story to be more engaging and relatable.

Use the insights from trans individuals to develop a character who is authentic and relatable. By doing so, you can create a compelling and meaningful story that does justice to the experiences and lived realities of trans women.

Conclusion

Writing a trans girl character requires a nuanced understanding of the subject matter. By engaging with trans individuals, avoiding clichés, and focusing on character development, you can create a story that is both authentic and impactful. Remember, the goal is to tell a story that resonates with readers while also respecting the diversity and complexity of the trans community.