Mastering the Art of Show verses Tell: How to Make Your Writing Come Alive
Learn the difference between show and tell in writing and when it's more important to tell than to show and vice versa
When it comes to writing, one of the most common pieces of advice that writers are given is to "show, don't tell." But what does this really mean, and why is it so important?
Well, here's some examples before we get started:
Tell: Iris West was nervous before her job interview at Picture News.
Show: Iris' hands trembled like leaves in a storm as she meticulously rehearsed her answers for the job interview. Her heart galloped in her chest like a wild stallion, threatening to burst free—beads of sweat, like tiny pearls, formed on her brow, a testament to her anxiety.
Tell: Wally West, donned in his scarlet uniform, was nervous before his big speech at the United Nations conference.
Show: Flash's hands shook as he adjusted the papers on the podium, his voice quivering slightly as he began to speak.
Tell: It was a cold and windy day.
Show: The icy wind, like a banshee, whistled through the trees, making the branches creak and shiver.
Tell: Beast Boy was feeling sad because he missed his mom.
Show: Beast Boy sat on his bed in Mount Justice, staring at a picture of his mom with her arm wrapped around him before the accident that gave him his powers. He traced his finger over her smiling face; he wanted to be angry as he thought about how Queen Bee stole her from him, but all he feels is a pang of longing in his chest. He sighed, wishing he could be with her right now.
Tell: She felt sad because her cat had passed away.
Show: Tears welled up in her eyes as she clutched the collar of her cat's favorite sweater, holding it close to her chest. The empty space on the couch where her cat used to curl up brought a pang of loneliness to her heart.
The basic idea is describing the situation or feelings vs. telling readers how they should feel or think.
The concept of "showing" in writing is a powerful tool that allows you, as a writer, to use concrete details, descriptions, and actions to immerse your readers in the story. Instead of simply telling them what is happening, you can invite them to experience the story first-hand. By mastering the art of "showing," you can create a more vivid and engaging narrative that draws your readers in, allowing them to experience the emotions and events of the story alongside your characters.
In writing, the power of "show, don't tell" lies in its profound respect for your reader's intelligence and imagination. By "showing," you empower your readers to form their own conclusions and interpretations about the story, fostering a deeper engagement with your narrative. This approach enhances their reading experience and demonstrates your trust in their ability to connect with your story more profoundly.
Furthermore, "showing" rather than "telling" is instrumental in creating dynamic, realistic characters. By "showing" a character's actions, thoughts, and emotions, you give your readers a deeper understanding of the character and their motivations. This deeper understanding fosters a stronger connection between your readers and your characters, making the reading experience more engaging and enjoyable.
However, sometimes it is more appropriate to "tell" rather than "show" in writing. "Telling" can be more efficient when conveying background information or setting the scene concisely. For example, if the protagonist is reflecting on a past event that shaped their character, it may be more effective to state the key details rather than show a lengthy flashback; this can help keep the story moving forward and maintain the readers' interest. You may also consider "telling" instead of "showing" when you want the readers' thoughts to travel in the "right" direction; sometimes a red chair is just a red chair, other times it could be more profound symbolism, and sometimes you want it to mean something and you need your readers to know what it actually means.
In conclusion, while "showing'" rather than "telling" is generally considered to be more effective in writing, there are times when "telling" can be equally valuable. Understanding when it's better to use "show" vs. "tell" and vice versa is a sign of a great writer; this skill can genuinely illuminate your writing.