I've read conflicting opinions as to how I should describe my characters.
On one hand, I've found advice that says to keep it simple. For example, when a character is tired, simply write:
Joe looks tired.
On the other hand, I've also been advised to keep things visual, to include exactly those "directions" that the previous quotation says not to use. For example, when a character is tired, use an image to to show that he or she is tired:
Joe slumps his shoulders and yawns.
To me, the first takes up less space, while the second spices up the way I "see" a script. So, which is it, and why?
Thanks.
On one hand, I've found advice that says to keep it simple. For example, when a character is tired, simply write:
Joe looks tired.
Avoid over-directing the actors. If the context and
emotional state of the character is clear, the reader
will fill in the rest. Let the actors decide the best
way to physically convey what the character is
feeling (e.g., "Joe's eyes dart back and forth.
He takes a step forward and step back. He scratches
his head and frowns- should simply read
"Joe looks confused.-)
emotional state of the character is clear, the reader
will fill in the rest. Let the actors decide the best
way to physically convey what the character is
feeling (e.g., "Joe's eyes dart back and forth.
He takes a step forward and step back. He scratches
his head and frowns- should simply read
"Joe looks confused.-)
Joe slumps his shoulders and yawns.
To me, the first takes up less space, while the second spices up the way I "see" a script. So, which is it, and why?
Thanks.
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