What Does “Show, Don’t Tell” Really Mean?
“Show, don’t tell” is an infamous writing rule. It’s probably the #1 rule we hear about and are told when we first begin our writing journey.
But what does show, don’t tell mean?
Well, let me break it down for you. SHOW is a tool meant to be used to pull readers into the story and keep them actively involved throughout the scene, chapter, and the story itself. TELLING, on the other hand, is going to cause your readers to be passive with the story and likely lose interest. TELLING doesn’t keep readers actively involved, making them feel distant.
Before we delve any deeper, let me give you an example. An example of SHOW is “he clenched his jaw.” An example of TELL is “he was angry.”
Do you see how SHOW will pull readers into the story and make them understand your character is angry without outright telling them that he’s angry? By SHOWING, you are making your reader an active participant within the story.
SHOWING is all about showing your readers the meaning of a moment. It’s about giving the emotion behind the characters/people, places, and things that are occurring within your story. It’s about SHOWING readers what it’s like to be in your character’s skin as the plot unfolds.
How you can implement the show, don’t tell rule into your writing:
Use your character’s 5 senses (sight, taste, smell, hear, touch).
Avoid adverbs (words that end in “ly”).
Use strong verbs. (Verbs show action.)
Use dialogue to your advantage. (Though avoid including adverbs in your dialogue tags.)
Focus on the actions and reactions that are coming from your character. Zero-in on the physical reactions one would display when feeling the particular emotion your character is experiencing.
Be specific. Don’t hold back! Get deep and put it on the page for your readers so they know what’s going on (almost as much as you do).
These elements are going to help you avoid TELLING and help you SHOW your readers what is occurring with your character, within the plot, and give an overall meaning to your story.
Hope this was helpful! The majority of my services include my assistance when it comes to the “show, don’t tell” rule. I provide every tool possible in my editorial letters to help writers improve their work. Now, get out there and write!
Xo,
Ashley
