18. Simplifying “show, don’t tell”

We’ve always been told to “show, don’t tell.” As such, we’ve become predisposed to want to show more, which is understandable because too much telling can feel dull and one-dimensional. But this predisposition is where writers can get lost.

While showing feels like an intimate experience with the reader, sometimes it can also cause a scene to feel long and drawn out when it has little to do with the overall story. On the other hand, telling can feel too abrupt and possibly be a missed opportunity to expand on the plot or character development.

I know how confusing this can be.

That’s why I—your host, Erin P.T. Canning, a writer, editor, and mom of two—want to show you how to maximize these methods to elevate your writing.

In this episode, you will learn exactly what showing and telling are, when to use them, and how to transition between the two. You will hear concrete yet simple examples of best-use cases, a detailed list of different ways to use telling, and a list of different types of showing.

Making the distinction between showing and telling is the foundation to guiding your reader’s imagination into your world and eliciting the emotions needed for your reader to sink into the story.

So tune in to this quick yet informative episode to learn about these methods and how to use them.

Topics discussed in this episode:
  • The difference between showing and telling
  • Should you show more than you tell?
  • Examples of transitions between telling and showing
  • When to use time in telling and showing
  • When to show vs. tell in various scenarios with examples
Connect with Erin:

Let’s connect via my Facebook group, Parents Who Write, at https://www.facebook.com/groups/parentswhowrite.

Listen or Watch

Listen to Parents Who Write on Apple Podcasts
Listen to Parents Who Write on Spotify
More button

Feeling stuck in your author journey?

As an experienced editor, I specialize in helping writers like you, especially parents juggling family and creativity, finish and publish their books.

Take action on your writing dreams! Book a FREE 30-minute discovery call to discuss how I can help you implement these strategies and finally achieve your author goals.

Bonus: Book your call and mention this episode for a free publishing check list.


Related

'}}
She uses poetry to immortalize precious moments with her children and motherhood’s complexity. Dominique Snedeker, a poet, U.S. Air Force veteran, and parent of three, is on today's podcast.
'}}
Uncover the hidden blueprint of your genre. Learn how understanding your genre's DNA can supercharge your writing and marketing efforts.
'}}
Juggling motherhood, writing, and career aspirations? Author and editor Jessica Dall shares her personal journey on pursuing her passions and raising a toddler. Discover how to overcome challenges and ignite your creative fire.
5 Steps to Help You Start Writing Today free PDF download

Get your free guide

We all deserve a safe space where we can return to being just ourself. Nothing more. Nothing less.

Use this personal guide to help you

  • make time for yourself,
  • identify what to write about, and
  • get started writing without your inner judge silencing you.
' skin='skin1'}}