CRAFT MODULE: Show, Don’t Tell!
Definition
Advantages
- Conveys information without directly telling the reader
- Increases excitement and action
- Allows your reader to experience or empathise with the actions and feelings of the characters
- Leaves room for the reader to interpret the story for themselves
- Makes the point of view of your characters more intimate for the reader
Exceptions
Telling isn’t automatically bad, nor is showing universally good. You need to use your judgement about when to deploy different approaches to your writing. However, remember that “show, don’t tell” is a preferable way to achieve good characterisation.
Let’s give it a go!
Now have a go at rewriting your latest story focusing on Show Don’t Tell. Upload it below for your peers to comment on.