(01-29-2015, 05:43 AM)Mikh Wrote: Racial lore, sexual preference and such other concepts do not define my character, though I have at least considered the impact that these have on my character. We may not conform to societal norms, though they will have had some measure of influence, be it positive or negative.
I think that's the best stance to take. One's race, background and sexuality will always have some influence upon them - even if they try to claim that it doesn't. It should never be the main defining trait however, since that just risks a character becoming a dull and predictable stereotype.
I grew up with a pretty rough Northern British accent. I also moved around a lot in recent years and I've gradually adjusted my accent to fit in better. Yet if I get startled, angered or excited then my original accent has a habit of emerging once more, often to the amusement of those around me!
I can see something like that happening with a character.