The Other Senses

I covered smells yesterday, so thought I'd just add some thoughts about the other senses.

Of course you should be writing what your character is seeing. Climb right into you character's skin and see out through his or her eyes.

What is your character hearing? No matter where you are or what you are doing, you are surrounded by sound. Of course sound can add a lot to your story--the creak of the stair, a squeal of a door's hinges, a dog barking, coyotes howling, wind in the willow tree, waves crashing on shore, the screech of an owl, a clock ticking, and one and on.

What does you character feel? Raindrops on his nose, the softness of a baby's skin, a strong hug, arms squeezing, a breeze ruffling her hair, the dampness of the fog, the coldness of the leather couch, the big dog bumping against his thigh, the ideas are endless and will enrich your story.

And don't forget taste. When your character is eating, let the reader know how the food tastes, you'll have him or her running into the kitchen for a snack. Think of all the things you taste in the day and then how you can incorporate them into your story.

When I'm editing, I look for places I can add more of the senses.

Marilyn
Books by Marilyn

Comments

Anonymous said…
If you begin to take notice of the world around you according to your senses - that is, paying attention to the way the rain drumming on the roof sounds like a thousand tiny footsteps overhead, you will find it easier to stimulate your imagination when it comes time to write about the senses.
You are so right, the more you pay attention the better you'll get at describing it in your writing.
Linda Leszczuk said…
Good thoughts, including yesterday's post on smells. I sometimes concentrate of sight and sound and neglect the other senses (except in love scenes, of course, where scent and touch are everything). Thanks for the reminder.
Excellent advice for character development in your story!

Thanks for sharing,
Monti
NotesAlongTheWay
J.Q. Rose said…
I love to read stories when the author includes all the senses. It enriches the description of characters, places, action, etc. Thanks for this important reminder to use the senses in our writing.

J Q Rose

Popular posts from this blog

Need to Catch Up With My Blog Tour?

Meet Morgen Bailey from the UK

The Alvarez Family Murder Mysteries By Heather Haven