Sunday, January 1, 2012

Show not Tell

Anger
Telling: Bob storms out of the room in anger.
Showing: Bob storms out of the room with his clenched, red creeping up his neck all the way to his cheeks, and his eyes narrowed.

There is no denying, in either sentence, how Bob is feeling. The second sentence, however, shows the reactions to the emotion, rather than stating the emotion itself.

Happiness
Telling: Sally skipped down the street happily.
Showing: Sally skipped down the street with her arms waving easily at her sides, a brightness in her features, and a lighthearted whistle on her lips.

In this one, I exaggerated a little, perhaps showing a little too much description, but I did want another example. I will only torture you with one more. Smile

Sadness
Telling: Sandra shook her head sadly as she looked at the ruined present.
Showing: Sandra shook her head, a small pout touching her lips and moisture rising into her eyes as she looked at the ruined present.


These are just a few guides to show you that showing is better than telling. It gives the reader a chance to to imagine how the emotions and feelings of the characters. I believe this is helpful tip...

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