While I may have been lateish to the Doctor Who party (only
started watching a few years ago), I’ve certainly become a solid fan (caught up
on all seasons and even read the comics) and Whovian enthusiast. From the
miniature TARDIS and sonic screwdriver I have on display in my office to the
complete DVD collection and endless quotes used in daily conversation – I’m a
sucker for the Doctor.
And why the hell not? As a character study for writers,
there’s none better than a centuries old time traveler who befriends underdogs,
saves star whales, entire civilizations, has his hand in every historical event
of significance, changes his face, quirks, personalities, never gives up on
humanity, abhors violence, uses his wit as a weapon, and all the while
struggles to rise above the dark, jaded parts of himself.
Yeah, I sorta love the guy.
There are just so many layers. And each new companion he
takes upon his epic journey across time and space provides infinite
opportunities for danger, growth, conflict, and humour. Doctor Who companions
are as much a part of the appeal as the Doctor himself. Here the average Joe
gets a shot at rewriting history, or re-establishing it. Imagine you…yes, you….travelling back or forward in time
to help take down evil in any guise – all with a slightly nutty professor
watching your back and making you a better person. It could happen. You never
know when the Doctor might drop by needing your help to save the world.
Heady stuff. Kinda addictive.
The show takes a mid-season hiatus during the winter and
while fans feel a bit left out in the cold, there’s a beacon of light ahead.
The annual Christmas special. To say I’m keen for this year’s offering is an
understatement. First – it’s set in Victorian London and lately I’m all about
Victorian influences for my steampunk series. Plus – the big bad – SNOWMEN.
I know, right? Haven’t we all wondered what those silent
sentries of snow get up to when we aren’t looking? Guess we’ll find out this
December 25th at 9pm EST.
Anyway, I encourage writers of genre fiction to climb aboard
the blue police box and analyze the character development, plot structure – the
sheer freaking fun of Doctor Who. You’ll drop in to see what the fuss is about
and stay for love of the Whoniverse.
Happy holidays, keep writing, and remember, top hats and bow
ties are cool.
Judith is the author of the Skinned series, paranormal with more bite than bark.
