Show vs. Tell in Storytelling

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Show vs. Tell: A Guide for Self-Published Authors

In the world of storytelling, one of the most important techniques to master is the art of “showing” rather than “telling.” This concept, “show, don’t tell,” is often shared with writers, but what does it really mean, and how can you apply it effectively in your writing? For self-published authors especially, showing instead of telling is crucial. It helps to make your story immersive, engaging, and authentic—qualities that draw readers in and keep them turning the pages.

In this post, we’ll explore why “show, don’t tell” matters and how you can bring it into your writing with some practical strategies. Let’s dive in!

Why “Show, Don’t Tell” Matters in Storytelling

At its core, storytelling is about creating an experience for the reader. Telling simply describes facts, emotions, or settings. Showing, however, brings those elements to life by allowing readers to observe and infer details on their own. Here’s why it’s essential:

1. Creates Emotional Impact: Showing allows readers to experience the story along with the characters, making it more emotionally engaging. Instead of saying “Max felt scared,” you might describe his pounding heart, trembling hands, and short breaths, allowing readers to feel the fear right alongside him.

2. Brings Characters to Life: Showing reveals a character’s traits through their actions, dialogue, and reactions rather than direct descriptions. It adds depth, making characters feel like real people instead of flat descriptions on a page.

3. Immerses Readers in the World: Vivid descriptions and sensory details make the story world feel real. Rather than telling us “the city was busy,” showing would invite readers to “hear” honking cars, “see” bustling crowds, and “smell” street food, bringing the city to life.

For self-published authors, mastering this technique can make the difference between a good story and a captivating one. It’s especially important in genres where reader immersion is key, such as romance, fantasy, or suspense.

Here are five practical ways to apply “show, don’t tell” in your self-published book:

1. Use Dialogue to Reveal Emotions and Intentions

Dialogue is a powerful tool for showing character traits, emotions, and relationships. Rather than telling readers that a character is angry, show it in the way they speak.

Example of Telling: 

Max was angry at Mei for being late.

Example of Showing: 

Max crossed his arms and clenched his jaw as Mei approached. “Glad you finally made it,” he said, each word edged with a cold bite.

Here, readers can sense Max’s anger through his body language and tone without needing to be told directly.

2. Bring in Sensory Details

Using sensory details—what characters see, hear, touch, taste, and smell—makes scenes come alive. It helps readers feel as if they’re experiencing the setting or action alongside the characters.

Example of Telling: 

The forest was eerie.

Example of Showing: 

Twigs snapped beneath Mei’s feet as she moved forward, the shadows thickening around her. A cold breeze carried the scent of damp earth, and somewhere in the distance, an owl hooted—a sound that seemed to echo too loudly in the silent, dark trees.

By painting a sensory picture, you create atmosphere and engage readers more deeply in the scene.

3. Describe Body Language and Actions

Showing often means illustrating a character’s thoughts or emotions through their actions and body language. Instead of telling us that a character is nervous, show it through the way they behave.

Example of Telling: 

Mei was nervous about meeting Max.

Example of Showing: 

Mei shifted from foot to foot, picking at her nails as she glanced at the door every few seconds. She took a deep breath, straightened her jacket, and adjusted her hair, trying to appear calm.

The subtle actions—shifting, picking at nails, deep breaths—demonstrate her nervousness without explicitly stating it.

4. Use Metaphors and Similes to Add Depth

Metaphors and similes can help you convey complex emotions or atmospheres without directly stating them. They can also add beauty and depth to your prose, making it more memorable.

Example of Telling: 

Max was in love.

Example of Showing: 

Being near Mei was like standing under the first warm rays of spring—he felt alive, light, and endlessly hopeful.

By comparing his feelings to something familiar and sensory, you evoke the emotion without plainly stating it.

5. Let Readers Infer Through Subtext

Subtext is the meaning that lies beneath the words and actions of your characters. It’s what’s implied rather than stated, and it invites readers to make their own interpretations. Subtext adds layers to dialogue and interaction, making them more engaging.

Example of Telling: 

Max didn’t trust Mei.

Example of Showing (Through Subtext): 

Max’s gaze lingered on Mei’s hands as she spoke. “That’s quite the story,” he said slowly, his eyes narrowing. “Are you sure that’s what happened?”

Instead of directly stating distrust, Max’s hesitation, narrowed eyes, and slow response let readers infer his doubt.

Balancing Show and Tell

While showing can create vivid, immersive storytelling, it’s essential to balance it with moments of telling. Not every detail needs to be shown in elaborate prose—sometimes, concise telling can keep the story moving. Telling is useful for quick transitions, background information, or minor details that don’t need detailed description.

For example, if a character has traveled from one town to another, a simple “He arrived late that evening” may suffice, rather than a drawn-out description of each step of the journey.

Practical Exercises to Strengthen “Show, Don’t Tell” Skills

If you’re ready to incorporate more “show, don’t tell” techniques in your writing, here are a few exercises to try:

1. Rewrite Descriptive Sentences: Take a few sentences from your draft where you’ve told the reader about a character’s emotion or a setting. Rewrite them to show instead. Compare the difference in impact and immersion.

2. Observe Body Language in Real Life: Pay attention to how people around you express emotions through body language and speech patterns. Note how emotions like anger, excitement, or nervousness come across without words.

3. Practice Sensory Writing: Go outside or think of a vivid setting in your book. Write a description focusing on all five senses. Then, refine it to make it more concise and impactful.

Conclusion: Make Your Story a Journey for Readers

“Show, don’t tell” isn’t just about style; it’s about giving readers a journey to experience alongside your characters. When you bring this technique into your writing, you create an immersive and memorable world that readers won’t want to leave. For self-published authors, this level of engagement can set your book apart and give it the polish that readers look for.

Remember, showing is about trust—trusting your readers to interpret and experience the story in their way. So as you edit and refine your work, focus on crafting moments that let readers feel, see, and journey alongside your characters. You’ll find it deepens the impact of your story and leaves a lasting impression.

Happy writing!