Show Don't Tell II

Writers ask me how I am able to think of creative ways in which to show my characters' emotions and actions. An easy answer: I conduct research. Oh, and add it to my on-going list in my writer's notebook behind the tab: Mannerisms.

Study people’s mannerisms. You can do this while watching tv or sitting on a park bench—a visit to the local shopping mall is a prime location. Some people are very animated with hand gestures while others use facial expressions that show emotion without uttering a word.

Make sure you always have your writer’s notebook close at hand, whether it be a small pad of paper or an actual notebook, to be able to jot these mannerisms down before you forget them. I always keep a pad of paper in my pocket at work, in a compartment of my car, and by the television for this purpose.

Remember to match the mannerism to the character. You won't see Horatio Caine stick thumbs in his ears, wiggle his fingers and say "Nah, nah, nah, nah-nah" to the bad guy leaving on the prison bus. In one smooth movement he'll settle sunglasses on his nose then stand hands on hips to watch as the bus pulls away. Calamity Kid, on the other hand . . .