This week: Show, don't tell. Edited by: Lilli ☕  
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"Think big and stay peculiar."
~ Andrew Motion
"I had chanced upon the discovery that for the writer it is not moral pondering or grand emotion that are the entrance to a story, but detail and small event."
~ Ethan Canin
"There is writing when you are intended to, and this, less frequent, sometimes more beautiful writing that just comes."
~James Salter |
"Here we go again!" Yes, I know, and I can hear the sighs from across the countries and seas. No one enjoys hearing this advice: show, don't tell. But here's the thing, it really is valuable advice. Showing rather than telling is how writers open doors and windows into our story to invite readers in.
Remember when we started reading as small children:
See Spot run.
Run, Spot run!
As exciting as they may sound, it ain't gonna cut it for well-seasoned readers. I think we can agree on that much, right? So, bear with me, and we'll discuss this subject again.
Here are a few ways to show rather than tell:
 Abstract words tell, concrete words show.
Don't say, "It's a beautiful day." (abstract) This requires the reader to use their own judgment and leaves them to imagine what they consider a beautiful day. Instead, show them what's beautiful about it from the point of view of the character making the observation.
Adjectives
Adjectives tell, verbs show.
Example: She spoke in a high-pitched voice. VS. She squeaked.
Example: She walked through the door. VS. She sauntered through the open door.
Adjectives modify or describe nouns or pronouns.
Verbs express an action, a state of being, or an occurrence.
Generalizations vs. Specifics
A house vs a Victorian mansion
A bird vs a mourning dove
A flower vs a fragrant gardenia
Granted, the entire story can't be all showing. We must balance the showing and telling by showing the critical parts that will pull readers closer and keep them interested. Think about this as you read some of your favorite authors' books.
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For Authors: June 25, 2025 Issue [#13207]
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