One of the strategies writers use to help readers immerse themselves in a story is descriptive language. We’ve discussed that before, and how focusing on imagery helps, but the question still remains: How can you include imagery in every paragraph? If you’ve been following these posts so far, by now you already have your answer.
But let me explain further, just to be absolutely clear. Descriptive language is used to explain how the characters interact with the setting and overcome their challenges to accomplish their goals. Since a little bit of that is explained in each paragraph, then it should be natural for descriptive language to be used in each paragraph.
Get young writers to think about how they describe actions and reactions as the story unfolds. Remind them to always ask themselves this question: Have I helped my readers imagine the situation? Here are some follow-up questions:
1. Where can I add visual imagery? (sight)
2. Where can I add auditory imagery? (sound)
3. Where can I add tactile imagery? (touch)
4. Where can I add olfactory imagery? (smell)
5. Where can I add gustatory imagery? (taste)
6. Where can I add kinesthetic imagery? (movement)
7. Where can I add organic imagery – sensations?
8. Where can I add organic imagery – emotions?
It’s not necessary to include all eight (8) mentioned above because that would make the story heavy on description and troublesome to read. Aim for about three (3) types of imagery in each paragraph as the setting, characters, and action are explained.
There is no formula to say which ones should be in which paragraph, so writers must think about what’s happening in the story to decide which type of imagery to use. Young writers need to practice this in order to get it right, so get them writing!
Thanks for your blog, nice to read. Do not stop.