Chances are, this is an expression you have heard many times before. But what does show don't tell mean? And why is it so important in creative writing?

This module is designed to explain the importance of showing rather than telling in the creative section of the HSC. At the end of this module you will have developed skills in narrative description, so you can show the markers that you deserve a Band 6!

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Show, don't tell is a technique used in creative writing, where the writer uses descriptive language to create an image in the readers mind. The idea is for the reader to experience the story through actions, senses and symbolism, rather than being told by the writer what is happening. THIS IS BORING!

Difference between telling and showing:

Telling: We were in the desert.
Showing: The heat of the sun bore down on us, singeing the hairs on our arms, our clothes clinging to our skin like glad wrap. Dune after dune of yellow sand. Each heavy step, flicking sand into our eyes. Our mouths as dry as the earth.


Telling: The room was dirty and uncared for.
Showing: As he entered the room the first thing he noticed was the musty smell: a combination of mould, damp and stale cigarette smoke. The beige carpet had a large brown stain in the centre, and one corner had begun to lift from the floor and fray at the sides. Opposite the doorway, pushed up against the wall, was a single bed. The blanket pulled back to expose the pilled, yellowing sheets. A breeding ground for bed bugs. 

Task 4: Due Week 5 
Watch the video and answer the questions below. Post your answers in the 'Task Four' thread of the DISCUSSION BOARD.

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Dudok de Wit. M. (2001). Father and daughter. United Kingdom: Acme Film Works.

The film tells a story without any words. This is a visual example of showing rather than telling.


Questions

1. In 2-3 sentences describe what the film is about.

2. How is the passing of time shown in the film? Think about symbolism, recurring images, seasons, character.

3. What does the bike symbolise? Consider how its meaning and symbolism changes throughout the film.

4. Explain the significance of the recurring image of the boat. 

5. Would this film be as powerful if the story was told with narration rather than images? Why, why not?



Extension Task

Practice your skills of showing rather than telling by writing a short description of the following:


A rainforest
A war zone
A nervous child on the first day of school
A happy old man

Get inspired!