Show Not Tell Quotes

“Good writing is supposed to evoke sensation in the reader—not the fact that it is raining, but the feeling of being rained upon.”
― E.L. Doctorow

“When should you show more than tell? Great writing is balanced! You do not want to be a show-all, or a tell-all. And remember we are storytellers. Balance is the key! And let your ear be the guide. Is it too heavy, or too light? Or is it just right?”
― Mark O'Brien

“Additionally, if you want to share information, share it actively. Don't tell me she's an assassin, show me she's fingering a blade under her sleeve. Don't say that the youngest son is the least favorite of the family of five, show me the father bringing home presents for everyone except the fifth son.”
― A.J. Flowers, A Guide to Writing Your First Novel

“Tell him? His idea of the best kind of present would be one she’d show him, not tell him.”
― Ellen O'Connell, Without Words

“He bears a grudge over what happened years ago," Mary said. "He admitted he's angry over Father Sterling's horses—and the plumbing of all things. He's always been a difficult man, but surely you can keep him from cutting off his nose to spite his face—and your face I might add."
Hassie thought of blazing heat and freezing rain, dust and mud, practicing what to do if surprised by Indians, Bret bleeding on the ground and a man with a gun standing over him. If she had her own gun on her right now, she might shoot a lamp or two.”
― Ellen O'Connell, Without Words