What Are Some Ways to Describe Characters of Color?

Describing characters of color in fiction is an important yet often controversial aspect of storytelling. While conveying accurate and respectful descriptions is crucial, doing so in a matter-of-fact way can enhance the reader's understanding and engagement. Let’s delve into the nuances of how to describe skin tone, incorporating insights from scientific perspectives and practical advice.

Understanding Skin Color Perception

Color, in its essence, is a perception created in the eyes and minds of animals through the differential responses of light-sensing cells with varying sensitivity. Most humans possess three types of photoreceptors: one that peaks in the high-frequency range for blue, one in the middle frequency range for green, and one in a lower frequency range for red. Some women have a fourth type, enhancing their color perception. Likewise, most birds carry four types of color receptors, while insects can have even more. Butterflies have up to 15 types, and mantis shrimp are the champions, potentially possessing dozens of color-differentiating receptors.

Describing Skin Color as a Physical Trait

Describing the physical trait of skin color is no different from describing eye color. Such descriptions are relevant and factual, just as any other physical traits that are observed. It is, in fact, racist to shy away from fundamental descriptions out of fear of being offensive. Ignoring skin color is a dishonest reflection of reality. For instance, Snow White is often described with skin the color of cream and lips like ripe cherries. Such comparisons to familiar images do not objectify individuals but rather provide context to their appearance.

Using Technical and Non-Technical Descriptions

It is helpful to know and use both technical and non-technical color terms. For those who are familiar with the technical language, terms like mahogany, olive, golden bronze, ruddy, and copper are valid. For readers who may not be familiar with such terms, it is beneficial to use common color names like brown, sienna, and umber. “Fair” is the traditional term for a pale complexion with pink undertones, while “pale” is another suitable descriptor.

Dealing with Subtle Race Representation

When writing about characters of color, it is important to be clear and direct. “A tall good-looking black man entered the room” should not offend anyone, as it merely provides context without offering specific details about his skin tone. Freedom from racism does not mean ignoring physical differences between people. However, it is also essential to realize that most readers will assume a character is white unless otherwise indicated, especially in fantasy novels.

Providing Examples of Descriptions

Here are a few examples of how to describe dark-skinned characters from my own writing:

Toshida:

Two oil lamps cast dim golden light around the room, lending an eerie cast to the Regent’s dark skin like that of an ancient bronze statue.

Sonondra Ra:

Next to enter was a figure whose surface glittered with a thousand rainbow gems. Lean, lithe, and dark-skinned, Sonondra Ra wore as little clothing as protocol permitted in order that the sensors which studded her skin might have maximum data input. They glittered like diamonds as she moved, tiny contacts embedded in her cocoa skin.

Devon:

My protagonist met him online, and their first live meeting revealed that he was a good-looking fellow with dark skin and long, lean features. He was also tall—very tall—and his height was all in his legs, giving him the look of a marathon runner.

These descriptions illustrate a simple, matter-of-fact, and unself-conscious approach to describing characters of color. Just tell the reader what the characters would notice in the language that describes it best.

Conclusion

Incorporating accurate and respectful descriptions of characters of color in fiction is a delicate but necessary task. By understanding the science behind color perception and employing a straightforward yet vivid writing style, you can enhance your storytelling and provide readers with a rich and nuanced experience.