Literary Reaper - Show don't tell

Some advice on 'show' and 'tell' from the Literary Reaper. Personally, I would just listen to what he has to say, he can be a little cantankerous!

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Script:

Welcome,

Perhaps one of the most revered admonitions of fiction is 'Show, don't tell'. It perplexes most writers, especially those new to the art.

Predominately, the issue is where and when to use 'Show' and a rudimentary understanding of why one should use 'Show'. Although somewhat of a personal preference, there are some points to understand: Show is used to vivify scenes so it should be reserved for action and scenes of significance, the regularity of show, is again, a personal choice but too much, and the aspects you want to highlight will have no impact due to lack of contrast. Too little, and writing can become flat, lifeless and overwrought with tell.

Both show and tell have their place in fiction. Tell is used to expedite the story past dull or unimportant information, provide exposition and connect scenes that are more dramatic. So it should not be forgotten. Show adds power and presence to your writing and it creates depth and contrast. Using show allows your readers to take the journey themselves, discovering people and places and experiencing emotion, this aids delivery of information and is a literary journey. Tell can be rushed and untidy, which is not always what one wants, and essentially it is a guided tour of your book, highlighting points of interest like an irritating tour guide!

Take heed to my words; use this advice wisely. I expect to have something worth reading when we meet!

Good day.

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