Hey fellow writers!
Welcome to the IABX Wednesday Writing Tip! Today, we’re exploring a common question: How much detail should you use in a story? The answer depends on a few key factors. Whether you're a minimalist or enjoy a lush, descriptive style, here are some tips to guide your decisions:
1. Style
Writers have different approaches—some are brief and to the point, while others paint rich, detailed scenes. Neither style is better; it’s all about finding your unique voice.
2. Scope
A flash fiction story with limited space will have fewer details than a sprawling novel. Likewise, if your story spans 20 years, you may choose broader strokes over a more detailed portrayal of a single moment.
3. Pacing
The more detail, the slower the scene feels. Want to build suspense or deepen emotional intensity? Add detail. For less significant moments, keep things brief to move the plot forward.
4. Point of View
What your character notices influences how much detail to include. If they’re in a dangerous situation, they’ll focus on survival, not scenery. If they’re in love, every feature of the other person might stand out.
5. Focus
Zooming in on certain details can signal importance to the reader. Describing a small, seemingly insignificant object in detail can create curiosity and hint at hidden significance.
As you write, experiment with levels of detail to discover what feels right for your story. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach—your storytelling style is unique!
Happy Writing!
From IABX
***Source: creative-writing-now.com
Comments