LET'S GET Writing!

FEATURED COURSE

The Art of 'Show, Don't Tell' 

ALL SKILL LEVELS

This principle is essential for creating vivid narratives that captivate readers and evoke emotional responses. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this workshop is designed to help you master this technique and elevate your storytelling. 

What Does "Show, Don't Tell" Mean?

At its core, "show, don't tell" encourages writers to convey emotions and experiences through descriptive actions, sensory details, and imagery rather than straightforward exposition. Instead of telling readers how a character feels, you will learn to show those feelings through their actions, dialogue, and surroundings. For example: 

• Telling: "She was angry."
• Showing: "Her fists clenched at her sides as she glared at him, her breath coming in sharp huffs."

By showing rather than telling, you allow readers to engage with your story on a deeper level, drawing them into the characters' experiences and emotions. 

Workshop Overview

Week-by-Week Breakdown

1.  Understanding the Basics: We will explore the fundamental concepts of "showing" versus "telling," including examples from literature. 
2.  Sensory Details: Learn how to incorporate sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch into your writing to create immersive scenes. 
3.  Character Actions: Discover how characters' behaviors can convey emotions and motivations without explicitly stating them. 
4.  Dialogue Techniques: Explore how dialogue can reveal character emotions and relationships through subtext rather than direct statements. 
5.  Setting as a Character: Understand how to use setting not just as a backdrop but as an active element that reflects characters' inner states. 
6.  Creating Tension and Conflict: Learn how showing can heighten tension in your narrative and keep readers on the edge of their seats. 
7.  Revising for Impact: We will focus on revising your work to enhance showing techniques, ensuring your writing resonates with readers. 
8.  Final Workshop and Sharing: In our concluding session, you'll have the opportunity to share your work with peers for constructive feedback and celebrate your progress! 

Assignments and Feedback

Each week will include practical writing assignments designed to apply what you've learned. You’ll receive feedback from both your instructor and fellow participants in a supportive community environment. This collaborative approach will help you refine your skills while building confidence in your writing. 

Resources for Success

To get the most out of this workshop: 

• Read Widely: Pay attention to how authors use showing in their work. Take notes on passages that resonate with you.
• Practice Regularly: Set aside time each week to write and experiment with different techniques.
• Engage with Peers: Participate actively in discussions and provide constructive feedback to others; this will enhance your learning experience.