In writing. Don't use adjectives which merely tell us how…
““In writing. Don't use adjectives which merely tell us how you want us to feel about the thing you are describing. I mean, instead of telling us a thing was "terrible," describe it so that we'll be terrified. Don't say it was "delightful"; make us say "delightful" when we've read the description. You see, all those words (horrifying, wonderful, hideous, exquisite) are only like saying to your readers, "Please will you do my job for me." [ Letter to Joan Lancaster , 26 June 1956]””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Show emotions through vivid description rather than naming them directly, letting readers feel the feeling themselves.
In simple terms: Describe to let readers feel the emotion.
Key Takeaway
Use concrete details to evoke feeling.
Themes
writing
style
show-don't-tell
empathy
Mood
inspired
reflective
Type
instructional
literary
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- teaching
- editing
- literary criticism
Key Concepts
sensory description
emotional resonance
reader engagement
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you replace a feeling word with a sensory image?
- What details best convey terror?
A Different Perspective
Overly abstract language can still leave readers confused.