The Five Tools for Showing by Randy Ingermanson | Advanced Fiction Writing

 

The Five Tools for Showing

 

by Randy Ingermanson 

 

Advanced Fiction Writing

 

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Your job as a novelist is very simple: to create a movie inside your reader’s head.

Not a picture. Not a sound bite. Not a word salad.

A movie. Inside your reader’s head.

Do that, and you win.

When editors tell you to “show, don’t tell,” what they really mean is to create that movie in your reader’s head.

You have five tools for showing that movie. That’s all. Just five. Master those five tools, and you’re far along the road to novelist nirvana. Here they are:

• Action
• Dialogue
• Interior Monologue
• Interior Emotion
• Sensory Description

Action

Action is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being doing something. Some examples:

• Hermione jumped on her broomstick and raced after Malfoy.
• Michael Corleone pointed his gun at the head of the police captain and squeezed the trigger.
• C3PO pressed its fingers into the wall socket, tripping the circuit breaker and plunging the room into darkness.

Dialogue

Dialogue is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being saying something. Some examples:

• “You are the last man I could ever be prevailed upon to marry,” said Elizabeth Bennet.
• “Hasta la vista, baby,” said the Terminator.
• “These are not the droids you’re looking for,” said Obi-wan Kenobi.

Interior Monologue

Interior monologue is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being thinking something. Some examples:

• I’ve got to catch that bottle of nitro before it hits the floor.
• Bad news. He loves me and he loves me not.
• It’s not enough to win this fight just for today. I need to win the fight for all time.

Interior Emotion

Interior emotion is a person or an animal or a robot or an angel or any other sentient being feeling emotion.

This is more complicated than the other tools, so we need to clarify a few points before giving an example. You don’t need to name the emotion. If you name the emotion, you aren’t showing it, you’re telling it. If you want to show the emotion, you show the character’s physiological response to the emotion, and the reader figures out the emotion and may well feel it right along with the characters.

Note that physiological responses are ambiguous. They are usually not enough to pin down the exact emotion. The reader also needs context. But once you’ve given them the right context, showing them the character’s physiological response will make them feel the emotion.

I’ll give just one example. You can easily imagine different contexts in which this physiological response might signal anger, fear, horror, or possibly other emotions:

• Luke’s face burned, but the inside of his stomach was icy cold.

Sensory Description

Sensory description is showing the environment in a way that appeals to the senses. Some examples:

• The dorm room smelled of peanut butter and dirty socks.
• Neon lights flashed red and blue and green.
• Thunder smashed outside the house. Rain pounded on the roof.

Mix and Match

You have five tools for showing your reader your story. You can mix and match them any way you like. Any paragraph you write can use any combination of these five tools. That gives you endless variety for showing your story.

There are other tools for telling your story—narrative summary and exposition are the most common. You may be asking if it’s okay to use these tools.

Of course it is! These can be powerful tools, used in the right way, at the right time in your story. It’s not possible to spend 100% of your story showing, with no telling at all. Telling gets your reader quickly and efficiently through the boring parts of the story. Showing takes your reader slowly and immersively through the exciting parts of the story.

As a novelist, you get to decide what percentage of your story to show and what percentage to tell. A modern high-octane thriller might spend 98% of the story in showing and only 2% in telling. A slower-paced, more reflective novel might spend only 60% showing and 40% telling.

Just don’t fool yourself. If you intended to show your reader mostly movie, but you wound up breaking into the movie in every paragraph to tell your reader interesting footnotes, then you didn’t do what you intended. You should at least know you’re doing that.

Homework

Look at the most recent scene you wrote for your novel. Highlight every word in the scene that is not action, dialogue, interior monologue, interior emotion, or sensory description. The parts that are not highlighted are the movie you’re creating in your reader’s head. The parts that are highlighted are the interruptions to the movie. Are you surprised how many interruptions you’ve got in your movie? Or is the proportion about right?

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About The Author

Randy Ingermanson is a theoretical physicist and the award-winning author of six novels. He has taught at numerous writing conferences over the years and publishes the free monthly Advanced Fiction Writing E-zine.

 

 Randy Ingermanson Books at Amazon

 

More Advanced Fiction Writing

[Free Event] Science Fiction Writers' Week 2023 Returns

 

Ready to write a bestselling science fiction novel? September 11–14, 2023 Join ProWritingAid for this FREE online event featuring bestselling authors like Lauren Beukes (The Shining Girls) and Jordan Ifueko (Raybearer). Sign up now Replays available on demand for two weeks after the event.

Here's what you can look forward to... 😍 Live interviews with bestselling authors like Lauren Beukes (The Shining Girls) 👽 Workshops on outlining, writing, and editing your science fiction book 🤝 Networking events to get to know other science fiction writers 🚀 And so much more!

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Can't make it live? Science Fiction Writers' Week 2023 begins September 11th. If you can't join us live, register to receive the replays after the event.   Save your spot

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ProWritingAid’s Science Fiction Writers’ Week 2023: The Ultimate Guide for Speculative Fiction Writers

If you’re a speculative fiction writer looking to elevate your craft, network with industry pros, and get your hands on some cutting-edge writing tools, then clear your calendar for September 11–14, 2023. ProWritingAid is hosting its Science Fiction Writers’ Week, and it’s an event you can’t afford to miss — especially since it’s free!

Why You Should Attend

Learn from Bestselling Authors

Ever wondered how authors like Lauren Beukes and Jordan Ifueko write NYT bestsellers? This is your chance to find out. Both will be present for live interviews where you can ask your burning questions.

Craft Workshops

From world-building to scene construction, the event offers a plethora of workshops to power up your writing skills.

Networking

Looking for a critique partner or just want to mingle with like-minded writers? The networking events are designed just for that.

Special Offers

Attendees get 40% off ProWritingAid’s annual licenses until September 28th. If you’ve been considering this tool, now’s the time to invest.

The Full Schedule

September 11

• Blade Runner & Beyond by Lucy V. Hay: Learn how to blend science fiction and thriller elements to create compelling stories.
• Unleashing AI for Writing by Joe Nicoletti: Discover how AI can serve as your brainstorming companion and creative catalyst.
• Finding Your Ideal Reader by Sue Campbell: Learn how to create an ideal reader persona to boost your book marketing.
• Essentials of Writing Science Fiction by Anne Hawley and Rachelle Ramirez: Get a comprehensive guide on how to build and improve your science fiction story.
• Breaking Through Writer’s Block by Dani Abernathy: Learn unique methods to overcome writer’s block.

September 12

• Worldbuilding the Final Frontier by Janet Forbes and Dimitris Havlidis: Dive deep into the nitty-gritty of science fiction worldbuilding.
• An Interview with Lauren Beukes: Get insights from the award-winning author.
• New Worlds, New People by Eileen Cook: Learn how to use setting to show character arc and change.
• How to Write Engaging Scenes by Savannah Gilbo: Master the art of writing well-structured and engaging scenes.
• Networking Event: Speed Dating: Meet other people in the Science Fiction writing community.

September 13

• How to Edit a Science Fiction Novel by Shane Millar: Get tips and tricks for editing your novel.
• Science in Fiction for the Non-Scientist by Catherine Asaro: Learn how to include science in your fiction even if you’re not a scientist.
• World Anvil Software Demo: Get a walkthrough of the World Anvil software.
• Villainous Intent by Savannah Gilbo: Learn how to use interiority to reveal your character’s inner life.
• How to Tell The Story You Were Meant To Tell by Ramy Vance: Get a step-by-step plan for drafting and launching your novel.

September 14

• How to Use ProWritingAid to Edit Your Science Fiction Novel by Hayley Milliman: Learn how ProWritingAid can support your editing process.
• Across Time Zones and An Ocean — Science Fiction Author Panel: Join a discussion with Julie E. Czerneda, Dan Hanks, and Chris Panatier.
• Bring Your Story World to Life by Julie Artz: Learn an iterative approach to world-building.
• An Interview with Jordan Ifueko: Get insights from the NYT Bestselling Author.
• Networking Event: Build a Science Fiction World: Collaborate with other writers to create a Science Fiction world.

Speaker Bios

The event features an impressive lineup of speakers, including certified developmental editors like Anne Hawley and Rachelle Ramirez, award-winning authors like Lauren Beukes and Jordan Ifueko, and experts in AI and marketing like Joe Nicoletti and Sue Campbell.

How to Register

Ready to take your science fiction writing to the next level? Register for this free event here.

Don’t miss this chance to learn from the best in the industry, all from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, this event has something invaluable for everyone. See you there!

Harnessing Mental Clarity: Unlock Your Writing Potential with LifeWave X39 by Olivia Salter

 

Harnessing Mental Clarity: Unlock Your Writing Potential with LifeWave X39

 

by Olivia Salter

 

Writing is a creative process that requires mental clarity, focus, and unwavering attention. However, many writers struggle with maintaining optimal cognitive function, often facing challenges such as brain fog, lack of concentration, and diminished mental performance. Fortunately, LifeWave X39, a groundbreaking technology backed by scientific research, offers a promising solution. In this article, we will explore how LifeWave X39 can enhance mental clarity and empower writers to unleash their full creative potential.

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Oxidative stress caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body can lead to diminished mental clarity and overall cognitive decline. LifeWave X39 patches have been designed to reduce oxidative stress, allowing writers to maintain clarity and sharpness in their thinking. By minimizing the negative effects of free radicals, writers can protect their brain health and sustain optimal cognitive function for prolonged periods.

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Fatigue can be a great hindrance to the creative process. Lack of energy not only impacts productivity but also diminishes the ability to think clearly and generate innovative ideas. LifeWave X39 supports energy balance, helping writers overcome mental exhaustion and stay alert. By providing a natural boost in energy, writers can harness their mental clarity to produce high-quality work consistently.

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Restful sleep is essential for writers to rejuvenate their mental faculties and maintain creativity. LifeWave X39 has been shown to improve sleep quality, enabling writers to experience deep and restorative rest. By addressing sleep disturbances such as insomnia and promoting longer uninterrupted sleep cycles, writers awaken refreshed and recharged. This enhanced restfulness translates to heightened mental clarity throughout the day.

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Mental clarity is not solely about a clear mind but also about emotional stability. Stress, anxiety, and negative moods can significantly impede the creative process. LifeWave X39 aids in the release of endorphins, natural mood enhancers, contributing to a positive emotional state. By promoting a calm and focused mindset, writers can tap into their creative wellspring with clarity and without distractions.

In conclusion the ever-evolving landscape of writing, maintaining mental clarity is crucial for writers to stay on top of their game. LifeWave X39 provides a novel approach to unlocking one's creative potential by addressing various aspects of mental well-being. Through enhanced blood circulation, reduced oxidative stress, increased energy levels, improved sleep quality, and enhanced mood, writers can tap into their true potential and produce their best work consistently. Embrace the power of LifeWave X39 and witness the transformative impact on mental clarity, enabling your writing to soar to new heights.

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Unleash Your Imagination: 10 Fiction Writing Tips by Olivia Salter

Unleash Your Imagination: 10 Fiction Writing Tips

 

by Olivia Salter

 

Crafting captivating works of fiction requires a unique blend of creativity, skill, and dedication. Whether you're an aspiring writer or a seasoned author, these ten fiction writing tips will help you enhance your storytelling abilities, deepen your characters, and create vivid narrative worlds. So let's dive into the realm of imagination and explore the secrets behind compelling fiction writing.

1. Start with a solid foundation:

Every captivating story is built on a solid foundation. Begin by outlining your plot, defining your characters, and establishing the setting. A well-structured framework will guide your narrative and provide a roadmap to ensure your story unfolds seamlessly.

2. Develop engaging characters:

Characters are the heart and soul of your story. Build three-dimensional characters with unique personalities, desires, and flaws. Give them deep aspirations and inner conflicts that readers can connect with. Remember, it's the characters that will drive the plot forward and keep readers invested.

3. Create authentic dialogue:

Dialogue breathes life into your characters and advances the narrative. Craft conversations that are authentic, natural, and purposeful. Each character should have a distinct voice, using dialogue to reveal their personalities, motivations, and emotions.

4. Show, Don't Tell:

Instead of simply telling your readers what's happening, show them through vivid descriptions, sensory details, and evocative language. Use imagery and metaphor to engage the reader's senses and place them right at the heart of your story.

5. Balance Action and Reflection:

Maintain a healthy balance between action and reflection. Engage readers by alternating between scenes of high tension and moments of introspection. This will create a dynamic rhythm, keeping readers hooked from one page to the next.

6. Master the Art of Pacing:

Pacing is crucial to maintaining your reader's interest. Vary the pace to build tension during intense moments and slow it down during quieter scenes. Experiment with sentence length, paragraph structure, and chapter breaks to effectively control the speed at which your story unfolds.

7. Embrace conflict and tension:

Conflict is the driving force behind any compelling story. Introduce various obstacles—internal and external conflicts and moral dilemmas—that challenge your characters. Conflict creates tension and keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.

8. Engage the reader's emotions:

Create an emotional connection between your readers and the characters by eliciting a range of emotions. Make them laugh, cry, and experience excitement or fear. Emotionally invested readers will form a deep bond with your story, ensuring its lasting impact.

9. Pay attention to detail:

Effective world-building relies on paying attention to details. Whether it's the historical background of your settings, the mechanics of a fictional technology, or the cultural nuances of your characters, flesh out the details to make your story feel more authentic and immersive.

10. Revise and edit:

The writing process doesn't end with the first draft. Revise, edit, and refine your manuscript. Look out for inconsistencies, pacing issues, and plot holes. Trim unnecessary details and polish your prose to create a tight and polished final product.

Conclusion:

Writing fiction is an art form that allows you to transport readers to the captivating worlds of your creation. By implementing these ten fiction writing tips, you can enhance your storytelling skills, create engaging characters, and build immersive narratives that will leave a lasting impact on your readers. So unleash your imagination, trust your instincts, and embark on a wondrous writing journey. Happy writing!

 

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Six Popular Genres In Fiction by Olivia Salter

 

Six Popular Genres In Fiction

 

by Olivia Salter

Fiction refers to literature created from the imagination. It is a vast and diverse realm of storytelling that encompasses a wide range of genres, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. Mysteries, science fiction, romance, fantasy, chick lit, and crime thrillers are all popular examples of fiction genres that captivate readers with their imaginative narratives and compelling characters.

Mystery fiction is a genre that revolves around the solving of a crime or the unraveling of an enigma. It often features suspenseful plotlines, intricate puzzles, and twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Famous examples include the works of Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot.

Science fiction, on the other hand, transports readers into futuristic worlds filled with advanced technology, intergalactic travel, and extraterrestrial beings. This genre explores the possibilities of scientific and technological advancements, often reflecting on social and ethical issues. It has produced iconic works such as Isaac Asimov's "Foundation" series and Frank Herbert's "Dune."

Romance fiction revolves around the development of a romantic relationship between two characters. It explores themes of love, passion, and emotional connection, providing readers with heartwarming and often escapist narratives. From classic tales like Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" to modern-day bestsellers like Nicholas Sparks' "The Notebook, romance fiction has a dedicated fan base.

Fantasy fiction takes readers on incredible journeys to mythical lands filled with magical beings, epic quests, and fantastic elements. It allows readers to escape reality and immerse themselves in a world where anything is possible. J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series are prime examples of this captivating genre.

Chick lit, also known as women's fiction, focuses on the lives and experiences of modern-day women. It often delves into themes of friendship, love, and personal growth. Popular authors like Sophie Kinsella and Helen Fielding have significantly contributed to the popularity of this genre by creating relatable and entertaining stories that resonate with female readers.

Crime thrillers, as the name suggests, are fast-paced novels that revolve around criminal activities, investigations, and the pursuit of justice. They keep readers on the edge of their seats with suspenseful plots and intriguing characters. Bestselling authors like Dan Brown and Gillian Flynn have made significant contributions to the crime thriller genre, creating gripping narratives that keep readers guessing until the final revelation.

Regardless of the genre, fiction serves as a means of entertainment, escapism, and exploration of the human condition. It allows us to step into different worlds, experience diverse emotions, and connect with characters who face challenges and triumph over adversity. Fiction has the power to transport us to places we could never visit and to make us empathize with people we may never meet.

Moreover, fiction has the ability to reflect on and comment on the world we live in. Through storytelling, authors often explore social, cultural, and political issues, offering insights and critiques that can provoke thought and spark conversations. By engaging with fiction, readers have the opportunity to gain new perspectives and broaden their understanding of the world around them.

In conclusion, fiction is a rich and varied literary genre that encompasses a wide range of storytelling possibilities. From mysteries to science fiction romance to fantasy chick lit to crime thrillers, there is something for every reader's taste. Whether we seek entertainment, escapism, or deeper insights into the human experience, fiction provides a gateway to worlds of imagination and endless possibilities. So pick up a book, delve into the realm of fiction, and let your imagination soar.

 

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Becoming a Proficient Writer Requires Practice, Persistence, and Patience by Olivia Salter

Becoming a Proficient Writer Requires Practice, Persistence, and Patience 

 

by Olivia Salter

 

It is surely obvious that the only way to learn how to write is to write. The only way to learn how to do anything is to try until the secret is conquered, and the more difficult the feat or art, the longer you must be an apprentice.

Writing is no exception to this rule. Just like any skill or craft, it requires practice, persistence, and patience. The more you write, the better you become at it. The act of putting words on paper or screen helps to solidify your understanding of language structure and storytelling.

Many aspiring writers may be intimidated by the thought of putting their thoughts and ideas into written form. They may fear criticism or judgment, or they may doubt their own abilities. However, the only way to overcome these fears is to face them head-on and start writing.

The process of learning how to write begins with taking that first step—putting pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard. It may feel awkward at first, and your words may not flow as effortlessly as you would like. But with every word you write, you are honing your skills, refining your voice, and gaining confidence.

As you continue to write, you will encounter challenges and obstacles. You may struggle with finding the right words, structuring your ideas, or maintaining a consistent tone. However, each of these challenges is an opportunity for growth and improvement. Embrace them Experiment with different approaches and learn from your mistakes.

Becoming a proficient writer also means being a lifelong learner. Read widely, explore different genres, and study the works of accomplished authors. Pay attention to how they craft sentences, develop characters, and create compelling narratives. Take note of their use of language, pacing, and dialogue.

Additionally, seek feedback from others. Share your writing with trusted writing groups or online communities. Listen to their perspectives, suggestions, and critiques. Constructive criticism can be invaluable in helping you refine your skills and identify areas for improvement. Embrace the opportunity to learn from others and grow as a writer.

While practice is crucial, it is equally important to study the craft of writing. Attend workshops, seminars, or writing classes where you can learn different techniques and approaches. Explore the elements of storytelling, such as plot development, characterization, and narrative structure. Understanding the principles behind effective writing can provide you with a solid foundation to build upon.

However, it is vital to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to writing. Each writer has their own unique style and voice. What works for one may not work for another. So while studying the craft is important, it is equally essential to embrace your individuality as a writer.

In conclusion, the only way to learn how to write is to write. It is through the act of writing that we develop our skills, discover our voice, and master the art of storytelling. Embrace the challenges, seek feedback, and continue to learn and grow. With dedication and perseverance, you can unlock the secrets of writing and become a skilled wordsmith.

The Magic of Reading Fiction: Unlocking the Path to Becoming a Fiction Writer by Olivia Salter

 

The Magic of Reading Fiction: Unlocking the Path to Becoming a Fiction Writer

 

by Olivia Salter

 

 Need to read more? Find free Kindle eBooks from a massive selection of genres.

Introduction

Reading fiction has been an age-old pastime that offers endless entertainment and escapism. But did you know that it can also be an invaluable tool for aspiring fiction writers? The art of writing fiction requires skill, creativity, and an understanding of narrative techniques. In this article, we will explore how reading fiction can enhance your writing abilities and unlock the path to becoming a successful fiction writer.

1. Expanding Your Imagination

When you read fiction, you enter a world of endless possibilities. Every story you encounter introduces you to new characters, settings, and plotlines, stimulating your imagination. By immersing yourself in different fictional worlds, you can gain inspiration and expand your creative thinking. As a writer, this allows you to break free from conventional ideas and explore unique concepts, resulting in more imaginative and engaging storytelling.

 

2. Observing Narrative Techniques

Reading fiction exposes you to various narrative techniques employed by experienced authors. Through careful observation, you can analyze how they structure their plots, develop characters, and create tension and conflict. By studying successful fiction, you gain a deeper understanding of pacing, dialogue points of view, foreshadowing, and other essential elements of storytelling. This exposure allows you to identify effective techniques and apply them to your own writing, enhancing the overall quality of your work.

3. Enhancing Language and Vocabulary Skills

The beauty and power of language are at the heart of fiction writing. By immersing yourself in well-crafted prose, you become more adept at using language effectively. Reading fiction exposes you to a rich range of styles, tones, and voices, allowing you to develop your own unique writing voice. Additionally, exposure to diverse vocabulary enhances your linguistic skills, enabling you to articulate ideas with precision and creativity.

4. Understanding Character Development

One of the fundamental aspects of fiction writing is creating compelling, well-rounded characters. By reading fiction, you have the opportunity to study the complexities of human behavior and emotion. You can observe how authors develop their characters, making them relatable, believable, and multidimensional. Analyzing character traits, motivations, and conflicts in various stories helps you develop your own characters with depth and authenticity, ensuring that readers can connect with them on a deeper level.

 

5. Absorbing Different Writing Styles

Every writer has their own unique style, shaped by their individual reading experiences. By exposing yourself to a diverse range of fiction, you can explore various writing styles and genres. From classics to contemporary literature, each author's distinct craftsmanship can leave a lasting impression. This exposure to different writing styles broadens your writing palette and enables you to experiment with different techniques while discovering your own voice.

 

Conclusion

Reading fiction is not only a source of entertainment but also a catalyst for personal and creative growth. When you immerse yourself in the world of fiction, you not only experience captivating stories but also learn valuable lessons about the art and craft of writing. Through exposure to diverse narratives, character development, narrative techniques, and writing styles, you enrich your own writing abilities. So if you aspire to become a successful fiction writer, open a book and embark on a journey through the magical realm of fiction. It may just be the key to unlocking your potential as a talented storyteller.

 

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