Descriptive writing is a skill all authors must learn. It elevates your plot, gives your work an immersive feel and most importantly, helps your readers visualise characters. Descriptive writing, when done well, can evoke emotions and convey important thematic elements.
For you to craft memorable physical traits, you must keenly observe the character in your mind’s eye. Study the character profile created in the last step until you have a good idea of what your character looks like.
Use specific and evocative language to paint a clear picture. Instead of merely stating eye colour or hair length, go deeper.
She had fiery red eyes. Her eyes were a furnace and as she held my gaze, I felt my soul ignite.
She smiled cunningly. She smiled like she knew all my secrets.
Her hair was tied down in a humble ponytail. Her hair lay flat on her scalp, as defeated and submissive as the rest of her.
Describe the intensity of their gaze and the way their hair falls and connect it with their personality. Use metaphors and similes to connect the reader emotionally to the character. Sound, touch, smell and taste can also enhance the description; don’t rely on sight alone.
What not to do when writing descriptively
Avoid generic or clichƩd descriptions. Try to be as original and specific as you can while ensuring your reader understands you.
Don’t over-describe your characters. Descriptive and evocative writing is best used during impactful scenes.
Summary
Use sensory details to create a vivid image. Engage the reader's senses beyond sight – touch, smell, and sound can enhance the description.
Don’t settle for generic descriptors. Instead of “he had grey eyes,” consider “his eyes, the colour of stormy clouds, held a quiet intensity.”
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