Storytelling Quote by John Gardner
““Good writers may “tell” about almost anything in fiction except the characters’ feelings. One may tell the reader that the character went to a private school (one need not show a scene at the private school if the scene has no importance for the rest of the narrative), or one may tell the reader that the character hates spaghetti; but with rare exceptions the characters’ feelings must be demonstrated: fear, love, excitement, doubt, embarrassment, despair become real only when they take the form of events—action (or gesture), dialogue, or physical reaction to setting. Detail is the lifeblood of fiction.””
About This Quote
Fiction must show characters’ emotions through actions, dialogue, or reactions, not just tell them; detail brings feelings to life.
In simple terms: Show, don’t tell characters’ emotions.
Key Takeaway
Use concrete scenes to convey feeling.
Themes
writing
show‑don’t‑tell
detail
Mood
thoughtful
practical
Type
educational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel drafting
- scene workshops
- character studies
Key Concepts
narrative technique
empathy
sensory description
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance showing and telling?
- Which scenes best reveal your character’s inner world?
A Different Perspective
Risk of over‑detailing can slow pacing.
