Writing Craft: The Five Tools for Showing

The Five Tools for Showing

 

By Randy Ingermanson 

 

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

The Power of Affirmations in Fiction Writing: Harnessing Positivity to Fuel Creativity

By Olivia Salter

Affirmations are a powerful tool that can shape our thoughts, beliefs, and actions. In the realm of fiction writing, where creativity and imagination play a crucial role, affirmations can be particularly transformative. By using affirmations, writers can tap into their inner creativity, overcome self-doubt, and stay motivated throughout the writing process. Let's explore how affirmations can be applied to fiction writing and how they can help writers achieve their goals.

Affirmations are positive statements that are used to challenge and overcome self-sabotaging and negative thoughts. In the context of fiction writing, affirmations can be tailored to address specific challenges that writers may face. For example, a writer struggling with writer's block can use affirmations like "My creativity flows effortlessly and abundantly" or "I am a talented storyteller with a unique voice." These positive affirmations can help reframe negative thoughts and beliefs, allowing writers to break through mental barriers and unleash their creativity.

One of the key benefits of using affirmations in fiction writing is the ability to boost confidence and self-belief. Writing can be a solitary and often daunting pursuit, filled with moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. Affirmations can serve as a powerful antidote to these negative feelings, reminding writers of their strengths and capabilities. By regularly repeating affirmations that affirm their skills and talent, writers can build a strong sense of self-confidence that empowers them to tackle challenges and push through obstacles.

Moreover, affirmations can help writers stay motivated and focused on their writing goals. The journey of writing a novel or a short story can be long and arduous, with setbacks and obstacles along the way. Affirmations like "I am dedicated to my writing goals and will persevere no matter what" or "Every word I write brings me closer to completing my masterpiece" can serve as constant reminders of the writer's commitment and determination. By integrating affirmations into their daily writing routine, writers can maintain a positive mindset and stay motivated even in the face of adversity.

In addition to boosting confidence and motivation, affirmations can also cultivate a mindset of abundance and possibility in fiction writing. By focusing on positive affirmations that emphasize abundance, such as "I have an infinite well of creativity to draw from" or "Opportunities to improve my writing skills are always available to me," writers can shift their perspective from scarcity to abundance. This mindset shift opens up new possibilities and encourages writers to explore creative ideas and storytelling techniques without fear of limitations.

Furthermore, affirmations can be a powerful tool for overcoming imposter syndrome, a common challenge that many writers face. Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that one is not as competent or talented as others perceive them to be, leading to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Affirmations that challenge these negative beliefs, such as "I am a skilled and accomplished writer deserving of success" or "My unique voice and perspective are valuable contributions to the literary world," can help writers silence their inner critic and embrace their true potential.

Ultimately, incorporating affirmations into fiction writing can have a profound impact on the creative process and the overall writing experience. By harnessing the power of positive affirmations, writers can unlock their full potential, cultivate confidence and self-belief, stay motivated and focused on their writing goals, and overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Whether used as a daily practice, a pre-writing ritual, or a tool for self-reflection, affirmations have the ability to transform the way writers approach their craft and unleash their creative energy.

Here are some examples of affirmations specifically designed to empower fiction writers and boost their creativity, confidence, and motivation:

1. My imagination is limitless, and my stories are filled with endless possibilities.
2. I trust in my unique voice as a writer and embrace the authenticity of my storytelling.
3. I am a magnet for creative ideas, and inspiration flows freely through me.
4. Every word I write is a step closer to bringing my characters and stories to life.
5. I am a talented storyteller with a gift for crafting compelling narratives.
6. I am committed to honing my craft and growing as a writer with each new piece I create.
7. My creativity is a powerful force that propels me forward on my writing journey.
8. I believe in the strength of my writing and the impact it can have on readers.
9. I am worthy of success and recognition for my unique contributions to the literary world.
10. I embrace challenges as opportunities to deepen my storytelling skills and evolve as a writer.
11. I trust in the process of writing, knowing that every draft brings me closer to my vision.
12. I embrace the ebbs and flows of creativity, knowing that each moment is part of my writing journey.
13. I am open to receiving feedback and turning it into opportunities for growth and improvement.
14. I honor my writing practice, making time to nurture my craft and prioritize my creative expression.
15. I respect the power of revision as a tool to shape and polish my stories into their best form.
16. I release any self-doubt or fear that hinders my creativity, allowing my imagination to flourish.
17. I am grateful for the gift of storytelling and the impact my words have on others.
18. I set clear intentions for my writing goals and take consistent action to bring them to fruition.
19. I welcome new ideas and perspectives into my writing, enriching the depth and complexity of my stories.
20. I trust in my ability to overcome writer's block and tap into the wellspring of creativity within me.

These affirmations can be personalized and tailored to align with the specific goals and struggles of individual fiction writers. By incorporating these positive affirmations into their daily routine or writing practice, writers can cultivate a mindset of abundance, boost their confidence, and stay motivated throughout their creative journey.

In conclusion, affirmations are a valuable resource that writers can use to nurture their creativity, overcome self-limiting beliefs, and stay motivated on their writing journey. By incorporating positive affirmations into their daily practice, writers can cultivate a mindset of abundance, build confidence and self-belief, and silence their inner critic. Embracing the power of affirmations in fiction writing can not only enhance the quality of one's writing but also enrich the writer's overall experience, leading to greater fulfillment and success in the creative process.

Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat! Beat Sheet for the Novelists

 

(click for larger view)

Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat! Beat Sheet for the Novelists

Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat! Beat Sheet is a popular story structure template that can be adapted for novel writing. Let’s break it down:

1.      Divide Your Word Count Into 3 Acts:

• First Act (about 25% of total word count): Introduce characters, setting, and the central conflict.
• Second Act (about 50% of total word count): Develop the plot, introduce subplots, and raise stakes.
• Third Act (about 25% of total word count): Resolve conflicts and provide a satisfying conclusion.

2.      Divide Each Act Into Scenes:

• Aim for around 1,500 words per scene.
• First Act: About 14 scenes.
• Second Act: About 28 scenes.
• Third Act: About 14 scenes.

3.      15 Story Beats (adapted for novels):

• Opening Image: Set the tone and introduce the world.
• Theme Stated: Hint at the central theme.
• Catalyst: An event that disrupts the protagonist’s routine.
• Debate: Internal struggle about pursuing the story goal.
• Break into Two: Commitment to the journey.
• B Story: Introduce secondary plot or character arc.
• Fun and Games: Engaging scenes.
• Midpoint: Significant turning point.
• Bad Guys Close In: Escalating obstacles.
• All Is Lost: Lowest point for the protagonist.
• Dark Night of the Soul: Reflection and regrouping.
• Break into Three: Final push toward climax.
• Finale: Resolution of main conflict.
• Closing Image: Last impactful scene.

Remember, this structure is a guide, not a rigid formula. Adapt it to suit your story!

Craft: Courage

By Randy Ingermanson

What’s the point of Story? Why are people hungry for Story? What can you do to ensure that your stories give people the one thing they so desperately want?

A couple of years ago, when I was writing my book How to Write a Dynamite Scene Using the Snowflake Method, I realized that Story is a community project. The point of Story is to keep the community alive.

The Tale of the Tiger

In that book, I gave as an example a story that must have been told zillions of times by our ancestors—the Tale of the Tiger. It’s a story of how a village deals with a threat to its survival when a marauding tiger targets the village’s herd of goats.

The village fights back, in the Tale of the Tiger, by organizing a tiger hunt. This is a high-stakes battle. A drought has ravaged the village’s farms, and the goats are the village’s last defense against starvation. If the village doesn’t kill the tiger, the village will die. Which means that every villager must be willing to die, if that’s what it takes to kill the tiger.

In the Tale of the Tiger, the viewpoint character is the youngest man in the village, the weakest link that the tiger attacks in the final showdown. Our hero has heard the Tale of the Tiger many times, and the Tale has taught him how to face his fears, face the tiger, and attack when all his instincts tell him to turn and run.

A Hero Is Not Enough

The key insight I had when writing the Tale of the Tiger is that our hero is not solely responsible for killing the tiger. The rest of the village plays a role by driving the tiger out of hiding.

The village story-woman plays a role, by the thousand times she has told the Tale of the Tiger in the past.

In some sense, the Tale of the Tiger itself kills the tiger.

The Powers We Face

It’s rare that any of us ever have to face a literal tiger. And yet we face metaphorical tigers every day. We face:

• Vindictive bullies.
• Well-meaning family or friends.
• Broken relationships or depression or loneliness.
• Governments or corporations or faceless organizations that do us harm.
• Damaging social and cultural and political forces.
• A hostile environment.
• Our own mortality.
• And on and on.

In a word, we face what theologian Walter Wink called the Powers. The Powers are mostly abstract and non-physical, but they’re real all the same.

The two key features of the Powers are these:

• The Powers are stronger than we are.
• The Powers will destroy us unless we find a way to defeat them.

Why Story Matters

The point of Story is to teach us how to defeat the Powers that threaten us, whatever they may be.

The Powers you face on any given day may be different from the ones I face. Therefore, the tactics you use to defeat the Powers may be different from the tactics I use.

But no matter what tactics we use, we all need one thing in order to face the Powers.

We need courage. Courage to face the tiger. Face the bully. Face your family. Face your friends. Face your government or your church or the company you work for. Face whatever Power means you harm.

Without courage, tactics are useless. Without courage, you will fold. Without courage, you will be destroyed by the Powers.

Story and Courage

The reason we desperately need Story is because Story puts us inside the skin of a character who has the courage to face the Powers.

By doing that, Story gets inside our own skin and trains us in the way of courage. Story builds our emotional muscle memory. Story trains us to face down any Power, however strong.

The more I learn about Story, the more I see that it’s all about giving my reader a blood transfusion of courage. And the side benefit is that it gives me a blood transfusion of courage.

Think about the last novel you read or the last movie you watched. Who was the lead character in the story? What Powers did they face? In what way did the Powers threaten to destroy the lead character? How did the lead Character defeat the Powers they faced? (Or how was the lead Character defeated by the Powers?) What role did courage play in the lead character’s victory? (Or what role did a lack of courage play in their defeat?)

Homework

• Who is the lead character in the story you’re writing right now?
• Do they face a Power?
• Does the Power threaten to destroy them?
• Where does your lead character find the courage to fight back?
• Does thinking about the Powers and courage help you clarify your story?

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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

Writing Quote: The art of writing cannot be taught, but the craft of writing can. — Noah Lukeman

 

 

The Dichotomy of Writing: Art versus Craft

 

By Olivia Salter

In the world of fiction writing, there exists a delicate balance between the elusive artistry of composing stories and the tangible craftsmanship of structuring prose. Noah Lukeman's insightful quote, "The art of writing cannot be taught, but the craft of writing can," encapsulates this dichotomy perfectly. Within the realms of literature, the debate rages on: can writing truly be taught, or is it an innate talent that defies instruction?

The notion that the art of writing cannot be taught stems from the belief that creativity and inspiration are deeply personal and cannot be methodically imparted to others. Writing, in its purest form, involves tapping into the depths of one's imagination, channeling emotions, and weaving words together to create something entirely unique. This ethereal aspect of writing, often referred to as the "art," is what sets each writer apart and gives their work its distinct voice and essence.

On the other hand, the craft of writing encompasses the technical skills and tools that can be taught and honed through practice and instruction. Grammar, syntax, plot structure, character development – these are all elements of the craft that can be dissected, analyzed, and improved upon. Through studying the works of established authors, receiving feedback from mentors and peers, and engaging in writing exercises, aspiring writers can refine their skills and elevate their craft to new heights.

While the art of writing may be considered innate and intangible, the craft of writing is a learnable and malleable skill that can be developed over time. By mastering the craft of writing, writers can enhance their storytelling abilities, create more engaging narratives, and connect with readers on a deeper level. The craft provides writers with a toolkit of techniques and strategies to shape their ideas into coherent and compelling works of fiction.

In a sense, the art of writing and the craft of writing are symbiotic – one cannot fully exist without the other. The art provides the raw creativity and inspiration that fuels a writer's work, while the craft offers the structure and discipline needed to bring that vision to fruition. It is the fusion of these two elements that allows writers to create works of fiction that are both artistically meaningful and technically proficient.

Ultimately, writing is a multifaceted process that requires a delicate balance of artistry and craftsmanship. While the art of writing may be elusive and personal, the craft of writing serves as a guiding light, helping writers navigate the complexities of storytelling and bring their creative visions to life. By embracing both the art and craft of writing, writers can embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and innovation in the world of fiction.

Also see:

• Noah Lukeman's Books at Amazon
   

See more writing quotes here.

Writing Craft: Ink-Stained Emotions in Fiction Writing

 

 

Ink-Stained Emotions in Fiction Writing 

 

by Olivia Salter

Ink-stained emotions in fiction writing refer to the art of conveying deep feelings and inner experiences through words. When crafting a piece of writing, whether it’s a story, poem, or essay, emotional resonance is key. Here are some tips to create that rich emotional experience for your reader:

1. Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of explicitly stating emotions, show them through vivid descriptions, actions, and dialogue. For instance:
   

   • Telling: “Sarah was devastated about the breakup.”
   • Showing: "Sarah blinked back tears, chin held high. Her throat tightened, and her eyes stung as she walked, fingers numb around her purse strap."

2. Use Sensory Details: Engage your reader’s senses. Describe the scent of rain, the taste of a bittersweet memory, or the texture of an old photograph. Sensory details evoke emotions more powerfully.

3. Character Development: Readers connect with well-developed characters. Show their vulnerabilities, fears, and desires. Make them relatable and flawed. Readers invest emotionally in characters they care about.

   Character’s Thoughts: Dive into your character’s internal world. Mix their actions with their thoughts. For example:
   

   • "She wouldn’t give John the satisfaction of seeing her cry, not after everything he’d put her through."

   Facial Expressions: Use facial cues to reveal emotions. A protagonist in pain won’t smile, and a deceitful character avoids eye contact.

4. Conflict and Resolution: Emotional impact often comes from conflict. Whether it’s internal (a character’s inner struggle) or external (a life-threatening situation), build tension and resolution. The emotional payoff lies in overcoming obstacles.

5. Metaphors and Symbols: Symbolism can evoke deep emotions. Consider using metaphors or recurring symbols that resonate with the theme of your piece. For instance, a wilting flower might symbolize lost love.

6. Pacing: Control the pace to evoke emotions. Slow down during poignant moments, allowing readers to feel the weight of emotions. Speed up during action scenes for adrenaline.

7. Dialogue: Authentic dialogue reveals emotions. Use subtext—what characters don’t say—to convey hidden feelings. Remember, silence can speak volumes.

8. Choose Words Carefully: Every word matters. Opt for evocative language. Instead of “happy,” use “ecstatic” or “elated.” Be precise.

9. Themes: Explore universal themes like love, loss, hope, or betrayal. These resonate with readers because they tap into shared human experiences.

10. Endings: A powerful ending lingers in readers’ minds. It could be bittersweet, hopeful, or devastating. Leave an emotional imprint. 
    

 

• Metaphorical Ink: Consider the pen as a conduit for raw emotion. As ink meets paper, it expresses the intricate layers of human experience.

 

Remember, ink-stained emotions create a connection between readers and characters, making your fiction resonate on a deeper level. Perfection isn’t about flawless prose; it’s about touching hearts and minds.

Using the Five Senses in Fiction Writing: Crafting a Multisensory Experience

Using the Five Senses in 

Fiction Writing: Crafting a Multisensory Experience

 

By Olivia Salter

 

As writers, we often rely on sight to describe scenes, but to truly immerse readers in our narratives, we must engage all five senses. Let’s explore how sensory details enhance storytelling and create a vivid reading experience.

1. The Five Senses Technique

The five senses technique enriches your writing by tapping into taste, touch, sight, smell, and sound. Here’s how to wield each sense effectively:

a. Sight (Visual)

• Paint Pictures: Describe what characters see—the play of light, colors, and shapes. Make scenes come alive through vivid imagery.

b. Sound (Auditory)

• Auditory Landscape: Capture sounds—the rustle of leaves, distant laughter, or the hum of machinery. Sound adds depth and realism.

c. Smell (Olfactory)

• Scent Memories: Invoke scents—the tang of rain, the warmth of freshly baked bread, or the acrid odor of burnt rubber.

d. Taste (Gustatory)

• Flavorful Moments: Explore taste—the bitterness of coffee, the sweetness of ripe fruit, or the saltiness of tears.

e. Touch (Tactile)

• Texture and Sensation: Convey touch—the roughness of tree bark, the coolness of metal, or the softness of a lover’s skin.

2. Sensory Detail in Action

• Characterization: Use sensory cues to reveal characters. A chef’s calloused hands hint at their culinary passion; a musician’s ear for subtle notes speaks volumes.

• Setting: Infuse your world with sensory richness. A bustling market teems with scents, sounds, and textures; a moonlit forest whispers secrets.

3. The Twist: Emotional Impact

Remember, sensory details aren’t mere decoration—they evoke emotions. The taste of childhood ice cream, the scent of a lost love’s perfume, the touch of a cherished heirloom—these resonate with readers.

So, as you write, engage all five senses. Let your words become a symphony of sensations, inviting readers to step into your story world and feel its heartbeat.

(Note: The senses are your palette; use them to paint unforgettable scenes.)