Show, Don't Tell

 

The adage “show, don’t tell” is a linchpin of writing.


A reader will get bored if an author blathers on with a long-winded set of details. If I inserted a paragraph of dull information here, where a sentence of activity would do, you would close the page.

There are circumstances when it’s appropriate to “tell” for short lengths of description.


However, a chapter is more intriguing if action is portrayed rather than described by terms.


If a writer can immerse a reader, rather than telling them what is happening, a story becomes more exciting: it draws the reader in, causing them to want to read more and learn more about the outcome.


Do you have a favorite author? Do they “show” or “tell” in their writing style?

You can follow the Author on her Website or X.

[Note: due to technical difficulties I was unable to publish last week's blog for July 28, 2025. Here it is as a belated post.]


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