How to Show and not Tell!

If you've ever taken a creative writing class, you've likely heard the phrase "show, don't tell" more times than you can count. It's a popular piece of advice, but what does it actually mean? And why is it important? In this article, we'll explore the nuances of "show, don't tell" and provide some examples to help you understand how to use this technique effectively in your writing.

What does "show, don't tell" mean?

At its core, "show, don't tell" is a writing technique that encourages writers to use sensory details and vivid descriptions to convey emotions, actions, and events, rather than simply stating them outright. In other words, instead of telling the reader what's happening, you show them through descriptive language and sensory details.

Why is it important?

The reason why "show, don't tell" is such a common piece of advice is because it helps to make your writing more engaging and immersive. When you show your reader what's happening, they can visualize it in their mind and feel like they're a part of the story. This creates a deeper emotional connection between the reader and the characters, which makes for a more powerful and memorable reading experience.

Examples of "show, don't tell"

Let's look at some examples of "show, don't tell" in action.

Example 1: Instead of saying "Samantha was angry," you could show her anger by describing her physical appearance and actions. For example:

"Samantha's face flushed red, and she balled her hands into fists at her sides. She gritted her teeth and took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down."

This description shows us that Samantha is angry without having to explicitly state it. We can feel her emotions through the vivid sensory details provided.

Example 2: Instead of saying "John was nervous," you could show his nervousness by describing his behavior. For example:

"John fidgeted with his tie, his palms slick with sweat. He took deep breaths and tried to steady himself, but his heart was pounding in his chest."

This description paints a picture of John's nervousness and allows the reader to feel the same emotions he's experiencing.

Example 3: Instead of saying "The sunset was beautiful," you could show the beauty of the sunset through descriptive language. For example:

"The sky was awash with vibrant shades of pink, orange, and purple as the sun dipped below the horizon. The clouds glowed with a warm, golden light, and the sea shimmered like diamonds."

This description transports the reader to the scene and allows them to experience the beauty of the sunset firsthand.

How to use "show, don't tell" effectively

While "show, don't tell" is a powerful writing technique, it's important to use it effectively. Here are some tips to help you master this technique:

Use sensory details: When you're describing a scene or character, try to include as many sensory details as possible. This includes sights, sounds, smells, textures, and tastes. By engaging all of the senses, you'll create a more vivid and immersive experience for your reader.

Use active verbs: Instead of relying on adjectives to describe emotions and actions, use active verbs that show what's happening. For example, instead of saying "He walked slowly," you could say "He shuffled his feet and dragged them along the ground."

Use dialogue: Dialogue is a powerful tool for showing character emotions and interactions. Instead of telling the reader what characters are thinking or feeling, let them express it through their words and actions.

Use subtext: Subtext is the underlying message or meaning in a scene or dialogue.By using subtext, you can show the reader what's really going on beneath the surface, rather than simply stating it outright. For example, a character might say one thing but mean another, and it's up to the reader to infer the true meaning from the context of the scene. This adds depth and complexity to your writing and keeps the reader engaged and invested in the story.