Don't you adore a story you can place yourself in the scene? You can imagine the sights, sounds, smells and tastes and feel what is happening?

So often writers get involved in their story like a movie and focus on what is seen, but neglect the other senses. Used sparingly, a few well-chosen sensory words can fill out a scene, giving the reader a full sensory experience.

By revealing the right senses at the right place you can improve the scene. This can be tricky at times. Making your writing full without going overboard is a balancing act. 

In a tense fight scene is your heroine going to be worried about her itchy scalp and greasy hair? Probably not. In that case the sensory writing can be distracting. In this case you might stick to describing the scene action and inserting the sensations her body is feeling. If she parries a thrust of his sword, does the impact reverberate up her arm? If she's in an argument with someone, does he get in her face with garlic breath? Just a touch of that will give another sense. What are the sounds she hears? If her lip is bleeding, does the metallic taste of blood fill her mouth?

All of this can add dimension to your writing while giving us a sense of character. If you have a very selfish character, she might think of her greasy hair, but be prepared for a humorous effect. If that is your intention, then go for it.

As in all things, balance and moderation is key, but don't be afraid to try something. If you show it to your reader, they can get the emotion, and those things you are implying without specifically stating them. Let your reader do some of the imagining with you.

Happy Writing.

If you have any comments or questions, I'd love to hear from you. Comment here or email at authorsassistant@hotmail.com