Wednesday 13 July 2011

Through Other Eyes

When we write we place ourselves into our character’s heads. We look at the world through their eyes.

Yet everyone sees the world very differently. Some people see challenge and adventure all around, while others see frightening things – threats and monsters wherever they look.

Imagine if you were seeing the world for the first time; if you had never seen a tree for instance, and didn’t have the words – branch – leaf - trunk – how would you describe it?

The way your character sees the world can show the reader so much more about that character. Make your descriptions work on more than one level. Show your reader how your character sees their world.

Mimsy has just spotted something – you or I wouldn’t think twice, but Mimsy’s just a little kitten, taking her first steps into the big outdoors.

Can you guess what it is?

6 comments:

  1. Perhaps the post man? I'd react that way too!

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  2. It looks like a chair leg to me;-)

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  3. LOL Thomas :-)

    And Caledonia Lass - I'm worried about your postman! He must be really scary!

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  4. Great advice for character improvement!

    I'd guess Mimsy's spotted another cat!

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  5. She could well be adopting that menacing pose to frighten off a dog. It usually works too!

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