The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide To Character Expression

TheEmotionThesaurus:AWriter’sGuideToCharacterExpression

AngelaAckerman&BeccaPuglisi

Copyright2012©byAngelaAckerman&BeccaPuglisiKindleEdition

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ABOUTTHEAUTHORS

AngelaAckermanisamemberoftheSCBWIandwritesonthedarkersideofMiddleGradeandYoungAdult.Shebelievesinthemonsterunderthebed,eatsFrench fries and ice cream together and is dedicated to paying it forwardhowevershecan.AngelalivesinCalgary,AlbertaintheshadowoftheCanadianRockieswithherhusband,twochildren,dogandzombie-likefish.

BeccaPuglisiisaYAfantasyandhistoricalfictionwriter,magazineauthor,andmemberof theSCBWI.Sheresides insunnysouthFlorida,whereshe likes towatchmovies, drink caffeinated beverages, and eat foods that aren’t good forher.Sheliveswithherhusbandandtwochildren.

Together,AngelaandBeccahostTheBookshelfMuse,anaward-winningonlineresource forwriters thatoffersanumberofdifferent thesauri toaidauthors intheirdescriptivewritingefforts.

http://thebookshelfmuse.blogspot.ca

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Firstand foremost,wewant to thank the readersofTheBookshelfMuse—foryour support, encouragement, andkindwords thatmadeus see theneed for abookversionofTheEmotionThesaurus.Withoutallofyou,thishonestlyneverwouldhavehappened.

Wealsowant toacknowledge thevery importantmembersofour firstcritiquegroup: Helen (Bookish), Roy (Grampy),Madeline (Maddog), Joan (Unohoo),andLaura(Goofus).TheseCritiqueCirclewritershelpeduskick start this listand our respective writing careers. Our deepest appreciation also goes to ourfriendandeditorSharon,whoencourageduswhenweneededitmost.

Wealsooweahugedebttothewritingcommunityatlarge.Thewriterswehavemetonline,atconferences,atface-to-facegroups,andinourowncommunitieshavebeensogenerouswiththeirknowledgeandoptimism,enablinguseachtogrowaswriters.Welovebeingpartofthisgroup.

Andfinally,thebiggestshoutoutgoestoourfamilies,whosupportedusthoughtheycouldn’tseethevision,encourageduswhenwestruggled,andprovidedthebusinesssavvywewerelacking.Weoweitalltoyou.

ToAADandSDJ,withallourlove

http://www.critiquecircle.com

TABLEOFCONTENTS

IntroductionTechniquesforWritingNonverbalEmotionUsingTheEmotionThesaurusEmotionEntries(75)AdorationAgitationAmazementAmusementAngerAnguishAnnoyanceAnticipationAnxietyConfidenceConflictedConfusionContemptCuriosityDefeatDefensivenessDenialDepressionDesireDesperationDeterminationDisappointmentDisbeliefDisgustDoubtDreadEagernessElationEmbarrassmentEnvyExcitement

FearFrustrationGratitudeGuiltHappinessHatredHopefulnessHumiliationHurtImpatienceIndifferenceInsecurityIrritationJealousyLonelinessLoveNervousnessNostalgiaOverwhelmedParanoiaPeacefulnessPrideRageRegretReliefReluctanceRemorseResentmentResignationSadnessSatisfactionScornShameSkepticismSmugnessSombernessSurprise/ShockSuspicionSympathy

TerrorUncertaintyUneaseWarinessWorry

INTRODUCTION

THEPOWEROFEMOTION

All successful novels, no matter what genre, have one thing in common:emotion.Itliesatthecoreofeverycharacter’sdecision,action,andword,allofwhich drive the story. Without emotion, a character’s personal journey ispointless. Stakes cease to exist. The plot line becomes a dry riverbed ofmeaninglessevents thatnoreaderwill take timetoread.Why?Becauseaboveallelse, readerspickupabook tohaveanemotionalexperience.Theyread toconnect with characters who provide entertainment andwhose trialsmay addmeaningtotheirownlifejourneys.

As emotional beings, feelings propel us. They drive our choices, determinewho we spend time with, and dictate our values. Emotion also fuels ourcommunication, allowing us to sharemeaningful information and beliefswithothers. And while it may seem that most exchanges happen throughconversation, in truth up to 95% of all communication is nonverbal. Even ininstanceswherewetrynot toshowourfeelings,wearestillsendingmessagesthrough body language.Because of this, each of us becomes adept at readingotherswithoutawordbeingsaid.

Aswriters,wemusttakeourinnateskillsofobservationandtransferthemtothe page. Readers have high expectations. They don’t want to be told how acharacter feels; theywant to experience the emotion for themselves. Tomakethishappen,wemustensurethatourcharactersexpresstheiremotionsinwaysthatarebothrecognizableandcompellingtoread.

VERBALANDNONVERBALCOMMUNICATION

Dialogueisaprovenvehicleforexpressingacharacter’s thoughts,beliefs,andopinions,but itcannotdelivera fullemotionalexperienceby itself.Toconveyfeelingswell,awritermustalsoutilizenonverbalcommunication,whichcanbebrokendownintothreeelements:physicalsignals(bodylanguageandactions),internalsensations(visceralreactions)andmentalresponses(thoughts).

PHYSICAL SIGNALS are how our bodies outwardly respond when weexperienceemotion.Thestrongerthefeeling, themorethebodyreactsandthelessconsciouscontrolwehaveovermovement.Becausecharactersareunique,they will express themselves in a specific way. Combine the vast number ofphysicalsignalswith the individualityofeachcharacter,andawriter’soptionsforshowingemotionthroughbodylanguageandactionarevirtuallylimitless.

MENTAL RESPONSES act as a window into the thought process thatcorrespondswithanemotionalexperience.Thoughtsarenotalwaysrationalandcanskipfromtopictotopicwithincrediblespeed.Utilizingthoughtasawaytoexpressemotionisanexcellentwaytoconveytothereaderhowacharacterseestheirworld.Thoughtsaddalayerofmeaningbyillustratinghowpeople,places,andeventsaffectthePOV(pointofview)characterandcanalsobeanexcellentwaytodemonstratevoice.

INTERNAL SENSATIONS are the most powerful form of nonverbalcommunication and should be used with the most caution. These visceralreactions(breathing,heartrate,light-headedness,adrenalinespikes,etc.)arerawand uncontrolled, triggering the fight-or-flight response. Because these areinstinctive body responses, all people experience them. As such, readers willrecognizeandconnectwiththemonaprimallevel.

Theverynatureoftheseheightenedvisceralreactionsrequireswriterstotakespecial care when using them. Relying too much on internal sensations cancreate melodrama. Also, because visceral responses are limited, a writer caninadvertently use clichéd phrasings when describing them. A light touch isneededwiththistypeofnonverbalcommunication,asalittlegoesalongway.

THEBALANCINGACT

Itiseasytoseethepowerofemotionandhowitconnectsareadertothestoryandcharacters.Thedifficultycomesinwritingitwell.Eachscenemustachieveabalancebetweenshowingtoolittlefeelingandshowingtoomuch.Aboveall,theemotionaldescriptionneedstobefreshandengaging.Thisisatallorderforwriterswhotendtoreusethesameemotionalindicatorsoverandover.

TheEmotionThesaurusaddressesthisdifficultybyhelpingwritersbrainstormnew ideas for expressing a character’s emotional state. But what about otherpitfalls associated with portraying emotion? The following section explores afew of these common trouble spots and suggests techniques for overcomingthem.

WRITINGNONVERBALEMOTION:AVOIDINGCOMMONPROBLEMS

TELLING

Bydefinition,nonverbalemotioncan’tbetold.Ithastobeshown.Thismakesitdifficulttowritebecausetellingiseasierthanshowing.Here’sanexample:

Mr.Paxton’seyesweresadashegaveherthenews.“I’msorry,JoAnne,butyourpositionwiththecompanyisnolongernecessary.”Instantly,JoAnnewasangrierthanshe’deverbeeninherlife.

Thisexchangeisfairlyeasytowrite—butnotsoeasytoread.Readersaresmart and can figure things out for themselves. They don’t want to have thescene explained to them, which is what happens when a writer tells how acharacterfeels.Anotherproblemwithtellingisthatitcreatesdistancebetweenthe reader and your characters, which is rarely a good idea. In the precedingexample, the reader sees thatMr. Paxton is reluctant to give JoAnne the badnewsand thatJoAnneisangryabout it.Butyoudon’twant thereader toonlyseewhat’shappening;youwant themto feel theemotion,and toexperience italongwiththecharacter.Toaccomplishthis,writersneedtoshowthecharacter’sphysicalandinternalresponsesratherthanstatingtheemotionoutright.

JoAnnesatonthechair’sedge,spinestraightasanewpencil,andstaredintoMr.Paxton’sface.Sixteenyearsshe’dgivenhim—daysshewassick,daysthekidsweresick—makingthetripbackandforthacrosstownonthatsweatybus.Nowhewouldn’tevenlookather, justkeptfiddlingwithherfolderandrearrangingthefancyknickknacksonhisdesk.Clearly,hedidn’twanttogiveherthenews,butshewasn’tabouttomakeiteasyforhim.The vinyl of her purse crackled and she lightened her grip on it. Her

pictureofthekidswasinthereandshedidn’twantitcreased.Mr. Paxton cleared his throat for the hundredth time. “JoAnne…Mrs.

Benson…itappearsthatyourpositionwiththecompanyisnolonger—”JoAnnejerkedtoherfeet,sendingherchairflyingoverthetile.Ithitthe

wallwithasatisfyingbangasshestormedfromtheoffice.

ThisscenegivesthereaderamuchbetteropportunitytoshareinJoAnne’s

anger.Throughtheuseofsensorydetails,awellchosensimile,specificverbs,andbodycues that correspondwith the featured emotion, readers can see thatJoAnne isangry,but theyalso feel it—in the straightnessofher spineand thecheapvinylinhergrip,intheforceittakestosendachairflyingacrosstheroomsimplyfromtheactofstanding.

Anexamplelikethisalsorevealsalotaboutthecharacter.JoAnneisnotwell-to-do. She has children to support. She may be angry, but she’s also strongminded, family oriented, and proud. This information rounds out JoAnne’scharacterandmakeshermorerelatabletothereader.

Showingtakesmoreworkthentelling,aswordcountalonewillindicate,butit pays off by drawing the reader closer to the character andhelping to createempathy. Once in a great while, it’s acceptable to tell the reader what thecharacterisfeeling:whenyouhavetopassoninformationquickly,orwhenyouneed a crisp sentence to convey a shift in mood or attention. But the otherninety-ninetimesoutofahundred,putintheextraworkandyouwillreapthebenefitsofshowing.

CLICHÉDEMOTIONS

•Thegrinthatstretchesfromeartoear•Asingletearpoolingintheeyebeforecoursingdownthecheek•Quiveringkneesthatknocktogether

Clichésinliteraturearevilifiedforgoodreason.They’reasignoflazywriting,aresultofsettlingontheeasyphrasebecausecomingupwithsomethingnewistoo hard. Writers often fall back on clichés because, technically, these tiredexamples work. That grin implies happiness as certainly as knee knockingindicates fear.Unfortunately, phrases like these lack depth because they don’tallowforarangeofemotions.Thatsingle tear tellsyouthat thepersonissad,buthowupset is she?Sadenough tosob?Shriek?Collapse?Will sheevenbecryingfiveminutes fromnow?Torelate toyourcharacter, the readerneeds toknowthedepthofemotionbeingexperienced.

Whenwritingacertainemotion,thinkaboutyourbodyandwhathappenstoitwhenyou’refeelingthatway.Excitement,forexample.Theheartracesandthe

pulsequickens.Legsbounce.Thespeechofamethodicalpersonbecomes fastpacedwith streamingwords. The voice is pitched higher and louder. For anygiven emotion, there are literallydozensof internal and external changes that,whenreferenced,willshowthereaderwhatyourcharacterisfeeling.Thelistsinthisthesaurusaregreatforprovidingideas,butyourownobservationsarejustashelpful.Watchpeople—realflesh-and-bloodspecimensatthemallorcharactersin movies. Note how they act when they’re confused or overwhelmed orirritable.Thefaceistheeasiesttonoticebuttherestofthebodyisjustastelling.Don’t overlook changes in a person’s voice, speech, or overall bearing andposture.

Secondly, know your character. Individuals do things differently—evenmundaneactivitieslikebrushingtheirteeth,driving,ormakingdinner.Emotionsarenoexception.Noteverycharacterwillshoutandthrowthingswhenangry.Some speak in quiet voices. Others go completely silent. Many, for variousreasons,will cover their anger and act like they’re not upset at all.Whateveryourcharacterisfeeling,describetheemotioninawaythatisspecifictohimorher,andyou’realmostguaranteedtowritesomethingnewandevocative.

MELODRAMA

If all emotions were of average intensity, they’d be easier to describe. Butemotionsvaryinstrength.Takefear,forinstance.Dependingupontheseverityofthesituation,apersonmightfeelanythingfromuneasetoanxietytoparanoiaor terror. Extreme emotionswill require extreme descriptors, while others arerelatively subtle and must be described as such. Unfortunately, many writersmake themistake of assuming that to be gripping, emotionmust be dramatic.Sadpeopleshouldburstintotears.Joyfulcharactersmustexpresstheirgleebyjumpingupanddown.Thiskindofwritingresultsinmelodrama,whichleadstoa senseofdisbelief in the readerbecause, in real life, emotion isn’t always sodemonstrative.

To avoidmelodrama, recognize that emotions run along a continuum, frommild to extreme. For each situation, knowwhere your character is along thatcontinuumandchooseappropriatedescriptors.Justasextremeemotionscallforextreme indicators, temperate emotions should be expressed subtly. Theindicatorsforintermediateemotionswillliesomewhereinthemiddle.

It’s alsovery important that your character follows a smooth emotional arc.Considerthefollowingexample:

Macktappedhisthumbagainstthesteeringwheel,onearmdanglingoutthewindow.HesmiledatDanabutshejustsatthere,twistingthatoneloopofhairaroundherfinger.“Worriedaboutyourinterviewtomorrow?”heasked.“Alittle.It’sagreatopportunitybutthetiming’sawful.There’stoomuch

going on.” She sighed. “I’ve been thinking about cutting back.Simplifying.”“Goodidea.”Henoddedalongwiththeradioandwavedatthebikerwho

thunderedpastonhisHarley.“I’mgladyouagree.”Shefacedhim.“Ithinkweshouldbreakup.”Hisfootslippedoffthegaspedal.Theairgrewheavy,makingithardto

breathe.Thecarveeredtowardthemiddlelineandheletitdrift,notcaringwhetherhelivedordied.

UnlessMack has a psychological reason for doing so, he shouldn’t jumpfrom placidity to depression in a matter of seconds. A realistic progressionwouldbetomovefromcontentmenttoshock,thendisbelief,andfinallytogrief.Donethoughtfully,thisemotionalarccanbeshownwithrelativelyfewwords:

“I’mgladyouagree.”Shefacedhim.“Ithinkweshouldbreakup.”His foot slipped off the gas pedal. “Break up? What are you talking

about?”“Mack.We’vebeenheadedthiswayforawhile,youknowthat.”He gripped the steeringwheel and took deep breaths. Sure, things had

been rough lately, and she kept talking about taking some time, but shealwayscamearound.Andshe’ddefinitelyneverutteredthewords,“breakup.”“Look,Dana—”“Please,don’t.Youcan’t talkmeoutof it this time.”She staredat the

dashboard.“I’msorry.”Hisinsidestwisted.HedartedalookatDana,butshewascurledagainst

thewindownow,bothhandsrestingeasyinherlap.Hegapedather.Theyweretotallybreakingup.

Makesurethatyourcharacter’sfeelingsprogressrealistically.Mapouttheemotionaljourneywithinthescenetoavoidunintendedmelodrama.

Allofthisisnottosaythatreallifedoesn’tproduceextremeemotion.Birth,death, loss, change—somesituationscall for intense responses thatmaygoonforawhile.Manywriters,inanadmirableattempttomaintainbelievability,trytorecreatetheseeventsinrealtime.Thisresultsinlongparagraphsorevenpagesof high emotion and, inevitably,melodrama. Though real life can sustain thiskindofintensityforlongperiodsoftime, it’snearlyimpossibleforthewrittenwordtodosoinawaythatreaderswillaccept.

In these situations, avoidmelodrama by abbreviating. Thismethod is oftenusedforotherreal-lifescenarios—conversations,forinstance.Smalltalkisleftouttokeepthepacemovingforward.Mundanetasksarealsocutshort,becausethereaderdoesn’tneed(orwant)toseetheentirecarwashed,apieceatatime,while Bob ponders a problem at work. In the sameway, extensive emotionalscenesshouldbelongenoughtoconveytheappropriateinformation,butnotso

long that you lose the audience.Write the emotion well, develop empathy inyour reader, maximize the words that you do use, but don’t overstay yourwelcome.

OVER-RELIANCE ON DIALOGUE ORTHOUGHTSBecausenonverbalwritingissohardtomaster,itmakessensethatsomewritersshyawayfromit,choosingtorelymoreonthoughtsordialoguetoexpresswhatacharacterisfeeling.Butanover-relianceoneitherleadstoproblems.

“Are—Areyousure?”Iasked.“Withoutadoubt,”ProfessorBakerreplied.“Itwasneck-and-neckright

uptotheend,butyoucameoutahead.Congratulations,William!”“Ican’tbelieveit,”Isaid.“Valedictorian!I’msohappy!”

Wordchoiceisimportantinexpressingemotion,butitwillonlygosofar.Afterthat,thewriterisreducedtoweaktechniquesliketellingthereaderwhat’sbeing felt (I’m so happy) and overusing exclamation points to show intensity.Withoutanyactiontobreakupthedialogue,theconversationalsosoundsstilted.

On the other hand, conveying emotion solely through thoughts has itsproblems,too.

My pulse was pounding somewhere in the 160 range. I did it!Valedictorian!IwassureNathanwouldcomeoutahead—hewasaphenomin the physics lab, and he’d been a ghost at school allmonth, practicallylivinginthelibrary.I threwmyarmsaroundProfessorBaker. I’d thinkabout this later and

cringewithembarrassment,but rightnow, Ididn’tcare. I’ddone it!TakeTHAT,NathanShusterman!

Technically, there’s nothing wrong with this sample. Bodily cues, bothinternalandexternal,areincluded.It’scleartothereaderthatWilliamisexcited.Yet it doesn’t ring true. Why? Because this monologue screams for verbal

interactionwithothers.ProfessorBakeristhereandhasclearlybeentalkingtoWilliam. ForWilliam to be so incredibly excited and not say anything comesacrossas…odd.

Internaldialogueisanimportantpartofanystory.Therearemanyscenesandscenarioswhereaparagraphormoreofcontemplationisappropriate.Thisisn’tone of them. For this scene, and for themajority of scenes, emotion ismuchmore effectively conveyed through amixture of dialogue, thoughts, and bodylanguage.

My pulse jittered somewhere around the 160mark.No, I’d heard himwrong,beentrickedbyanover-active,sleep-deprived,twistedimagination.“Are—”Iclearedmythroat.“Areyousure?”“It was neck-and-neck right up to the end, but you came out ahead.

Congratulations,William.”TheleatherchairsqueakedasIcollapsedintoit.Valedictorian.How’dI

beat out Nathan, who’d been a ghost all month, practically living in thelibrary?NottomentionthatB-Iscrapedinphysics.“ButIdidit,”Iwhispered.Theprofessorstoodtoshakemyhand.Ijumpedupandthrewmyarms

aroundhim, lifting himoff the floor.Later, I’d remember this anddie ofembarrassment,butrightnowIdidn’tcare.“Ididit!TakeTHAT,NathanShusterman!”“Knewyouhaditinyou,”theprofessorsaidinastrangledvoice.

When expressing emotion, vary your vehicles, using both verbal andnonverbaltechniquesformaximumimpact.

MISUSING BACKSTORY TO ENHANCEREADEREMPATHYEvery character is unique, influenced largely by events from the past. Onesurefirewaytogainreaderempathyistorevealwhyacharacteristhewayheis.Take themovieJaws, for example.The first glimpsewehaveof sharkhunterQuint, he’s raking his none-too-clean fingernails down a chalkboard. Hardlyendearing.Asthemovieprogresses,theviewer’sdislikeisjustifiedthroughhis

crassmannersandbullyingofyoungMr.Hooper.ButoncehetellshisstoryofthesinkingoftheIndianapolisandhisfivedaysandnightstreadingwaterwiththe sharks, the viewer understands how he became so hardened.His behaviorhasn’t changed andwe still don’t like himverymuch, butwe empathizewithhimnow.Wewishhimbetterthanwhatlifehasserveduptohim.

This is just one example of the importance of backstory in building readerempathy.Peopleareproductsoftheirpast.Astheauthor,it’simportantforyoutoknowwhyyourcharactersarethewaytheyareandtopassthatinformationalong to readers. However, it’s hard to know just how much to share. Manywriters, in an attempt to gain reader empathy, reveal too much. Excessivebackstoryslowsthepaceandcanborereaders, temptingthemtoskipaheadtothe good stuff.Undoubtedly,Quint’s path to crusty and crazy containedmorethanthatoneunfortunateevent,but therestdidn’tneedtobeshared.Thatonestory,artfullytold,wasenough.

In order to avoid using too much backstory, determine which details fromyourcharacter’spastarenecessarytoshare.Dolethemoutthroughthecontextofthepresent-timestorytokeepthepacemoving.Forinspiration,consideryourfavorite literary characters, even those whomay have been unlikable. Revisittheirstoriestoseewhatcluesfromthepasttheauthorchosetoreveal,andhowitwasdone.

Backstory is tricky to write well. As is true of so many areas of writing,balanceisthekey.

USINGTHEEMOTIONTHESAURUS

We’veestablishedthatemotionpowersascene,andwhenwrittenwell,propelsreaders out of apathy and into the character’s emotional experience. Writingauthenticemotionisnotalwayseasy,buttocreatebreakoutfiction,writersmustcomeupwithfreshideastoexpresstheircharacters’feelings.

Emotionisstrongestwhenbothverbalandnonverbalcommunicationareusedintandem. The Emotion Thesaurus can supply that critical nonverbal elementwritersneed to fireupanemotionalhit thatwill leavea lasting impressiononreaders.Herearesomefinalideasonhowtousethisthesaurustoitsfullest:

IDENTIFYTHEROOTEMOTION

Certain situations can arouse a single, easily identifiable emotion. But moreoften than not, human beings feel more than one thing at a time. If you arestrugglingwithhow toconvey thisconflict to the reader, takea stepbackandidentifyyourcharacter’srootemotion.Thisisthecatalystthatdictatesanyotherfeelings your character might also experience. Once you’ve found the rootemotion, look to the corresponding thesaurus entry for a rangeof suggestions.TheMAYESCALATETOfieldcanalsoprovidealogicalprogressionforwhereyourcharacter’sfeelingsmightbeheaded.Onceyou’veclearlyshowntherootemotion,youcanlayerotheremotionsontoalesserdegreeandmapoutthefullexperience.

UTILIZETHESETTING

Charactersdon’tliveinbubbles—theyinteractwiththeworldaroundthem.Thisis especially true when emotions come into play. A character in the kitchenmightsweepawineglassoffthecounterinafitofrage,butinanofficesetting,thesameangermayrequiresomecontrol,rangingfromaslammedofficedoortotense posture and fingers pounding the keyboard. When referring to thethesaurusentries,awritershouldkeepinmindthecharacter’ssettinginordertocreateorganicanduniqueemotionalresponses.

LESSISMORE

Using toomany cues to describe a character’s feelings can slow the pace anddilutethereader’semotionalexperience.Sometimesthishappenswhenawriterfailstoidentifyandfocusfirstontherootemotion.Othertimes,it’stheresultofchoosing toomanyweak descriptors. Strong imagerywill paint an immediatepicture, so always strive to create concrete body language for the reader tointerpret.Watch for overlong emotional passages that slow the action.Alwaysthinklikeareader,andkeepthosepagesturning.

TWISTTHECLICHÉWheneverpossible,writersshouldusefreshideastoconveyemotion.Butlet’sfaceit...somedescriptorsworkwell.That’swhytheycropupinnovelsagainandagain. Each thesaurus entry includes a myriad of possible cues; if you findyourself leaning towarda traditional response likeeye rollingor fistclenchingthatcanbeseenascliché,twistitfirst.

Take shivering, for example—a common visceral indicator to imply fear ordiscomfort.Shiversrunupthespine,downthespine...thesearetiredphrasesthatcan turn off readers. Sure, the sensation fits, but why not come up withsomethingnew?Whycouldn’tashiverswarmover thebackof the legs?Howabout using a simile that likens a shiver to leaf-cutter ants marching along avine?Betteryet,don’tcall itashiveratall. Instead,describe thesensationsoftightening skin or hair being raised.Never be afraid to experiment. There aremanywaystotakeatiredexpressionandtwistitintosomethingunique.

VIEW ENTRIES AS A LAUNCHINGPOINTBodymovement,actions,visceralsensations,andthoughtsareas individualasthecharactersexperiencingthem.Thelistaccompanyingeachthesaurusentryisnotdesignedas aone-size-fits-all setofoptions. It ismeant, rather, topromptwriters to think beyond the basics. Each character comes from a differentbackgroundandhasauniquepersonality.Theircomfortlevelaroundotherswillalsoinfluencehowtheyexpressemotion.Withthisinmind,entriesshouldserve

as a brainstorming tool and encouragewriters to take the next step and createfresh,individualwaystoshowacharacter’semotionalstate.

TRYRELATEDEMOTIONS

If you’re struggling to find the perfect physical response, visceral reaction, orthought,tryreadingthroughtheentriesofsimilaremotions.Eachentrycontainsdifferent cues. Studying the lists for related feelings may spark an idea forsomethingnew.

VISCERAL REACTIONS AS PHYSICALINDICATORS

Sometimes,thestrongestemotionalresponsesareinstinctive(visceral)onesthatoccur mostly internally and are therefore difficult for others to notice. Thisbecomesaproblem forwriterswhowant to showacharacter’s emotionwhileremainingtruetotheirthird-orfirst-personpointofview.Inthesecases,writersshould focusonvisceral reactions thathaveaphysical“tell”attached to them.Forexample,sweating,blushingandshakinesshaveanexternalcomponentthatcanbeseenbyothers.Utilizingthesecuesallowsawritertodescribeavisceralreaction without damaging the integrity of the point of view. Because of theexternal signs that accompany these unique internal sensations, we haveincludedthemunderthePHYSICALSIGNALSheading.

AFINALWORD

Our hope for this book is that it will helpwriters brainstorm uniqueways toexpresscharacteremotion.Theseentriesareonlyastartingpoint,butwehopeThe Emotion Thesaurus will become a useful companion on your writingjourney,andwilltravelwithyoufrombooktobook.Happywriting!

THEEMOTIONTHESAURUS

ADORATION

DEFINITION:theactofworship;toviewasdivineNOTE:thesubjectofadorationcanbeapersonorthing

PHYSICALSIGNALS:LipspartingAslackorsoftexpressionWalkingquicklytoerasethedistanceMimickingbodylanguage(ofthesubject)Touchingone’smouthorfaceReachingouttobrush,touchorgraspSteadyeyecontact,largepupilsLeaningforwardStrokingone’sownneckorarmasasurrogatePointingone’storsoandfeettowardthesubjectAflushedappearanceNoddingwhilethesubjectspeaksSmilingOpenbodypostureReleasinganappreciativesighLayingahandovertheheartFrequentlymoisteningthelipsPressingpalmslightlyagainstthecheeksSkimmingfingertipsalongthejawlineEyesthatarebright,glossyAgreement(murmuringaffirmations)SpeakingpraiseandcomplimentsKeepingtrinkets,pictures,orarticlesofthesubjectConstantlytalkingaboutthesubjecttoothersRaptattention,stillpostureBecomingunawareofone’senvironmentorotherpeopleAradiantglowVisibleshakinessReducedblinking

ClosingtheeyestosavortheexperienceSpeakingwithasoftvoiceortoneAvoicethatcrackswithemotion

INTERNALSENSATIONS:QuickeningheartbeatBreathlessnessFeelingone’spulseinthethroatMouthdryingThroatgrowingthickRisingbodytemperatureTinglingnerveendings

MENTALRESPONSES:AdesiretomovecloserortouchFixatingone’sthoughtsonthesubjectAcutelisteningandobservationIgnoringdistractionsAninabilitytoseethesubject’sflawsorfaults

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMADORATION:ObsessionFantasizingBelievingthatthefeelingsaremutualAsenseofdestiny(ofbelongingtogether)StalkingWritingandsendingletters,email,andgiftsTakingrisksorbreakinglawstobenearorwiththesubjectWeightlossPoorsleeppatternsJealousytowardsthoseinteractingwiththesubjectTakingontraitsormannerismsofthesubjectCarryingsomethingthatrepresentsthesubject(apicture,clothes)PossessivenessMAYESCALATETO:LOVE,DESIRE,FRUSTRATION,HURT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDADORATION:Clenchingorhidingone’shandstohidesweatingorshakingAvoidingconversationsaboutthesubject

WatchingorobservingfromafarStayingoutofthesubject’sproximityBlushingSneakinglooksatthesubjectCreatingchanceruninsWritingsecretletters,keepingadiaryLyingaboutone’sfeelingsregardingthesubject

ReturntotheTableofContents

WRITER’S TIP: Body cues should create a strong mental picture. If themovement is toodrawnoutorcomplicated, theemotionalmeaningbehind thegesturemaybelost.

AGITATION

DEFINITION:feelingupsetordisturbed;astateofunrest

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AreddeningofthefaceAsheenofsweatonthecheeks,chin,andforeheadHandsmovinginjerksRubbingthebackoftheneckPattingpocketsordigginginapurse,lookingforsomethinglostClumsinessduetorushing(knockingthingsover,bumpingtables)AgazethatbouncesfromplacetoplaceAninabilitytostaystillJammingorcrammingthingsawaywithoutcareAbruptmovement(causingachairtotiporscuffthefloorloudly)FlappinghandsBecomingaccidentprone(bashingone’shiponadeskcorner,etc.)DraggingthehandsthroughthehairrepeatedlyForgettingwords,beingunabletoarticulatethoughtsBacktrackingtotryandundosomethingsaidinhasteAdjustingone’sclothingAvoidingeyecontactAwaveringvoiceNotknowingwheretolookorgoGuardingone’spersonalspaceTakingtoolongtoansweraquestionorrespondThroatclearingOverusingums,ahs,andotherverbalhesitationsTurningawayfromothersAbobbingAdam’sapplePacingMakingoddnoisesinthethroatRapidlipmovementasonetriestofindtherightthingtosayFlinchingiftouchedMinimizinganother’scomplimentsFanningselfUnbuttoningatopshirtbuttonTuggingatatie,collar,orscarf

INTERNALSENSATIONS:ExcessivesalivaFeelingoverheatedStiffeninghaironthenapeoftheneckLightheadednessShort,fastbreathsSweatingTinglingskinassweatforms

MENTALRESPONSES:MountingfrustrationthatcausesthoughtstoblankCompoundingmistakesAtendencytolietocoveruporexcuseAngeratoneselfforfreezingupTryingtopinpointthesourceofdiscomfortMentallyorderingoneselftocalmdown,relax

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMAGITATION:Flightresponse(lookingforanescapeorfleeingtheroom)Snappingatothers,oradoptingadefensivetoneScatteringpapersandfilesinafranticsearchMAYESCALATETO:ANNOYANCE,FRUSTRATION,ANXIETY,ANGER

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDAGITATION:ChangingthesubjectMakingexcusesJokingtolightenthemoodStayingbusywithtaskstoavoiddealingwiththesourceoftheemotionShiftingattentiontoothers,puttingtheminthespotlight


WRITER’STIP:Atickingclockcanrampuptheemotionsinanyscene.Asthecharacterhurriestocompleteataskormeetaneed,mistakescausedbyrushingopenthedoorforaricheremotionalride.

AMAZEMENT

DEFINITION:overwhelmingastonishmentorwonder

PHYSICALSIGNALS:WideningoftheeyesAslackmouthBecomingsuddenlystillSuckinginaquickbreathAhandcoveringone’smouthStiffeningpostureGivingasmallyelpRapidblinkingfollowedbyopenstaringFlinchingorstarting,thebodyjumpingslightlyTakingastepbackAslow,disbelievingshakeoftheheadVoicingwonder:Ican’tbelieveit!orLookatthat!PullingoutacellphonetorecordtheeventGlancingtoseeifothersareexperiencingthesamethingPressingahandagainstone’schest,fingerssplayedoutLeaninginMovingcloserReachingoutortouchingEyebrowsraisingLipspartingAwidesmileSpontaneouslaughterPressingpalmstocheeksFanningoneselfRepeatingthesamethingsoverandoverSquealingdramatically

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Aheartthatseemstofreeze,thenpoundRushingbloodRisingbodytemperatureTinglingskin

StalledbreathsAdrenalinespikes

MENTALRESPONSES:MomentarilyforgettingallelseWantingtosharetheexperiencewithothersGiddinessDisorientationEuphoriaAninabilitytofindwords

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMAMAZEMENT:AracingheartbeatShortnessofbreathKneesgoingweakFeelingoverwhelmed,asiftheroomisclosinginCollapsingMAYESCALATETO:CURIOSITY,DISBELIEF,EXCITEMENT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDAMAZEMENT:Holdingoneselftight(self-hugging)Walkinginjerky,self-containedstridesClampingthehandstothechestLookingdownorawaytohideone’sexpressionEyeswideningabitbeforecontrolisassertedMouthsnappingshutAstonyexpressionTakingaseattohidetheemotionMakingexcusesifreactionisnoticedStuttering,stammering


WRITER’S TIP: To add another layer to an emotional experience, look forsymbolismwithinthecharacter’scurrentsetting.Whatuniqueobjectwithinthelocationcanthecharactermakenoteofthatperfectlyembodiestheemotiontheyarefeelinginside?

AMUSEMENT

DEFINITION: appealing to the sense of humor; to feel entertainment ordelight

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AshinyorrosyfaceRaisedorwigglingeyebrowsSnorting,laughingChucklingorcacklingDisplayingawidegrinExchangingknowinglookswithothersWittycommentaryMakingjokingobservationsTurningawayandburstingoutinlaughterAplayfulpinch,nudge,orshoveEyessquinting,litwithaninnerglowortwinkleofmischiefSmirkingorofferingabemusedsmileClutchingatanotherpersonforsupportGaspingforairSlappingone’skneesorthighsDrummingfeetagainstthefloorFallingagainstsomeone,shouldertoshoulder“Drunken”behavior(weaving,staggering)RepeatingthepunchlineoraselectwordtospurmorelaughterAhighvoiceHoldingone’ssidesWhimpersofmirthSpewingfoodordrinkiflaughterhitswhileeatingordrinkingFallingtotheground,rollingonthefloorNoserunning,sniffingCrashingintothings,beingclumsybutnotcaringAwide-eyedlookthatgetsothersdissolvingintolaughteragainAbellylaughHoldingontoachairorwallforsupportGiggling,makingfaces,winkingPluckingatclothestocooldown

INTERNALSENSATIONS:PainintheribsorstomachWheezybreathBodytemperaturejumpingupWeaknessinlimbs,especiallytheknees

MENTALRESPONSES:AneedtositdownReplayingthehumorouseventEmbellishingtheeventinone’smind,increasingthemirthWantingtokeeptheamusementgoingbyaddingtoitwithothers

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMAMUSEMENT:UncontrollablelaughterLaughingsoharditbecomessoundlessBodyquakingShakingtheheademphaticallyAlossofbodycontrol(weakmuscles,havingahardtimestayingupright)BeggingpeopletostopAninabilitytoformwordsBreathlessnessEyestearingAsweaty,disheveledappearanceLossofbladdercontrolNeedingtoleavetheroomMAYESCALATETO:HAPPINESS,SATISFACTION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDAMUSEMENT:ClampingthelipstogetherHoldingahandupasiftosayNomore!ShakingtheheadSwallowinglaughterWipingatthemouthCoveringthemouth,bitinglipstohideasmileAreddeningofthefaceTurningawaytocollectoneselfConfiningalaughtoasnortPressingafistagainstthelips


WRITER’STIP:Tocreateempathyforacharacter(includingtheantagonist),take the time tohumanize them through theiractions.Even themostunlikablepersonhasaredeemingquality,soshowittothereaderinasmall,subtleway.

ANGER

DEFINITION:strongdispleasureorwrath,usuallyarousedbyaperceivedwrong

PHYSICALSIGNALS:FlaringnostrilsSweatingHoldingelbowswidefromthebody,chestthrustoutSweepingarmgesturesHandlingobjectsorpeopleroughlyAhighchinNoisybreathingLegsthatareplantedwideBaringone’steethRepetitive,sharpgestures(shakingafist,etc.)CuttingpeopleoffwhentheyspeakJerkyheadmovementsProtrudingeyesFlexingthefingersorarmmusclesCrackingknucklesRollingupsleevesorlooseningacollarEyesthatarecold,hard,flintyEnteringanother’spersonalspacetointimidateJeers,taunts,acuttingwitTightnessintheeyesorexpressionGlaringAreddeningofthefaceLipsthatflattenorcurlClosedbodyposture(crossingthearms)Nailsbitingintoone’sownpalmsPoundingone’sfistsagainstthighs,table,awall,etc.Slammingdoors,cupboards,ordrawersPunching,kicking,throwingthingsStompingorstampingAveinthatpulses,twitches,orbecomesengorgedLaughterwithanedge

Ashakingorraisedvoice,yellingDeepeningone’stoneDeployingsarcasm,insultingothersPickingfights(verbalorphysical)Snappingatpeople

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Grindingone’steethMusclesquiveringPulsespeeding,heartbeatpoundingBodytensingHeatflushingthroughthebodySweating

MENTALRESPONSES:IrritabilityPoorlisteningskillsJumpingtoconclusionsIrrationalreactionstoinconsequentialthingsDemandingimmediateactionImpetuosityTakinginappropriateactionorrisksFantasizingviolence

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMANGER:ExplodingoverlittlethingsUlcersHypertensionSkinproblems,suchaseczemaandacneDamagingone’sownpropertyasawaytoventLongerrecoverytimefromsurgeries,accidents,andothertraumaCuttingoneselfRoadrageTakingone’sangeroutoninnocentbystandersMAYESCALATETO:RAGE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDANGER:UsingacarefullycontrolledtoneDrawinginslow,steadybreaths

FalsesmilesPassive-aggressivecommentsAvoidingeyecontactSlantingthebodyawayfromthesourceofangerWithdrawingfromtheconversationHidingone’shandsandfeetsoclenchingandtwitchingcan’tbeseenExcusingoneselfforabrieftimeHeadacheSoremusclesandjaw


WRITER’STIP:Payspecialattentiontotheeventsleadinguptoanemotionalresponse. If the plotting feels contrived, the character’s reaction will seemcontrivedaswell.

ANGUISH

DEFINITION:emotionalormentaldistress;acutesuffering

PHYSICALSIGNALS:ManicpacingMutteringRubbingthebackofone’sneckRockingbackandforthTuggingone’shairNoteatingordrinkingVisiblesweatingSkinbunchingaroundtheeyes,apainedstareHandsclenchingintofistsRubbingthewristsorwringingthehandsRestlessfingersJumpingatsoundsGrindingone’steethClenchingthejawMovingabout,beingunabletosettleinoneplaceMusclesjumpingundertheskinAcordedneckCurlingone’stoesRepeatedlytouchinganobjectthatsymbolizessafetyAudiblestressinone’svoiceandtonePickingatlips,skin,ornailsClutchingatoneselfShivering,moaningSobbingorweepingYellingorshoutingCheckingandrecheckingthetimeAskingthoseinauthorityforupdatesShouldersthatcurloverthechestBringingone’slegsupclosetothebody’scoreCrying,wailing,beggingforhelpTurningawayfromothersSeekingcornersinconfinedspaces

RubbingthearmsorlegsBeatingatwallsorsurroundingobjects

INTERNALSENSATIONS:NauseaSoremuscles,stiffness,crampingPaininthebackofthethroatDifficultyswallowingElevatedbodytemperature

MENTALRESPONSES:ThinkingirrationallyPraying,bargainingBelievinginanythingthatpromisesapositiveoutcomeFixatingonthesourceofsufferingAwillingnesstoputoneselfinharm’swayforemotionalrelief

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMANGUISH:ScreamingforreleaseAgauntappearance,wastingawayPrematureagingPosturethatbendsorcrumplesVomitingordryheavesHyperventilationPoorcoloring,darkcirclesundertheeyesWrinklesandsaggingaroundtheeyesandmouthAlcohol,drug,ormedicationdependencyBaldpatchesFacialticsorrepetitivemannerisms(hairtugging,bodyrocking)Cutting,scratching,orotherself-destructivebehaviorsDepressionSuicideMAYESCALATETO:DESPERATION,DEPRESSION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDANGUISH:WincingGrittingone’steethUncontrolledshiveringandhandtremorsMuscletightness

FurtivemovementsHidingexpressivegestureslikehandwringingBittennails,bleedingquicksAdownturnedmouthorpinchedlipsAttemptingtoholdbackwhimpersormoansHeavyorshakybreathingMinimalspeaking(one-wordanswers,shakingornoddingthehead)ChainsmokingDrinkingheavilySallowskin


WRITER’STIP:Don’tbeafraidtochallengeyourcharacter’smorals.Puttingthem in situations that are outside their comfort zonewillmake them squirm,andthereaderwilltoo.

ANNOYANCE

DEFINITION:aggravationormildirritation

PHYSICALSIGNALS:ApinchedexpressionSighingheavilyorwithexaggerationStatementssuggestingimpatience:Here,I’lldoit.NarrowingeyesCrossedarmsTappingafoot,fidgetingSwattingattheairTicsandtells(athrobbingforeheadvein,fingeringacollar)LipspressingintoawhiteslashClenchingthejawGrimacing,sneering,frowningComplainingFoldingthearmsacrossthechestHandsthatbrieflyclenchMakingpointedsuggestionstoalleviatetheannoyanceTuggingatclothing(jerkingdownacuff,forcingazipperup)Cockingone’sheadandthenshakingitRaisingone’seyebrowsandgivingaglassystareAgazethatflicksupwardMinutelyshakingtheheadChangingone’sstance(shiftingweightorposition)ProppingtheheadupwithafistHoldingtheheadinthehandsOpeningthemouthtocriticize,thenstoppingshortTakingadeepbreathandholdingitinFinger-tappingatabletopAsmilethatslipsorappearsforcedSnappingapenciltip,usingunnecessaryforcePacingLightsarcasmAskingaquestionthathasapainfullyobviousanswerAsharptone

SpeakinginshortphrasesVisibletensionintheneck,shoulders,andarmsRigidposture,cordstwangingintheneckRubbingthebrowasiftowardoffaheadacheAvoidingthepersonorobjectofannoyancePressingafisttothemouth

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AheadacheStiffnessintheneckorjawRaisedbodytemperatureSensitivitytonoise

MENTALRESPONSES:BeratingthoughtsStrayingattentionThinkingofanexcusetoleaveMakingunkindmentalcomparisonsWishingtobesomewhereelse

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMANNOYANCE:AreddeningfaceRoughhandlingofobjectsTakingoversomeoneelse’sjobordutiesGrindingone’steethThrowingthehandsupinagestureofsurrenderStalkingofftogetsomeairShuttingdown,notspeakingorrespondingPullingsomeoneelseintothesituationtodivertattentionandallowonetoexitMAYESCALATETO:FRUSTRATION,ANGER

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDANNOYANCE:Nodding,buttightly,asifholdingbackfromspeakinganinsultSwitchingtoanotherjobtokeephandsandthoughtsbusyAttackingatask,divertingone’senergyForcingoneselftoremaininthepresenceoftheannoyanceFakinginterest,barelyholdingimpatienceatbayCarefullycontrollingone’svoiceandtoneFocusingone’sgazeelsewhereinanattempttoignore


WRITER’STIP:Don’tgetcaughtupontheeyestoconveyemotion.Whileeyesareoftenthefirst thingwenoticeinreal life, theyprovideverylimitedoptionsfor description possibilities. Instead, dig deeper, showing how the characterbehavesthroughtheirbodymovement,actionsanddialogue.

ANTICIPATION

DEFINITION:hopefulexpectation;toawaiteagerly

PHYSICALSIGNALS:SweatypalmsTremblinghandsCrossinganduncrossingone’slegsFranticplanningfortheeventList-makingClaspingone’shandstothechestBeingunabletothinkortalkaboutanythingelseFidgetingasifmovementwillmakethingsgofasterBouncingonone’stoesAbright-eyedlook,engagingwithothersortheenvironmentFussingwithclothes,rearrangingthingsWaitingatawindow,hoveringatthedoororbythephoneCheckingandrecheckinghairormakeupinamirrorGossipingwithothers,sharingexcitement,gigglingClosingeyesandsquealingJitteringafootagainstthefloorCoveringone’sfaceandthenpeekingBitingone’slipFakeswooningAskingquestions:Howlong?When?Whatisit?WettingthelipsClosingtheeyesandsighingPacingRhythmicmovements(swingingone’slegsbackandforth,etc.)Obsessiveclock-watchingCheckingandrecheckingemailPhoningortextingfriendstotalkaboutwhat’scomingGrabbinganotherpersonandsayingTellme!LeaninginPickingatfood,tooexcitedtoeatBeggingsomeonefordetails,ananswer,foralookatsomething

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Afluttery,emptyfeelinginthestomachBreathlessnessApoundingheartTinglingallover

MENTALRESPONSES:DaydreamingAdesireforperfectionFearingthatsomethingwillhappentoscrewthingsupAlackofconcentrationImaginingwhatwillhappenBecomingself-critical(questioningclothingchoices,abilities)

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMANTICIPATION:SleeplossFrustrationorimpatienceShort-temperedness,irritabilityNeglectingeverythingelse(responsibilities,friends,family)FantasizingorbuildinguptheeventfarbeyonditsrealityOver-thinking(organizingeveryminutedetail,etc.)Goingoverboardinpreparation(dressingover-the-top,etc.)MAYESCALATETO:EXCITEMENT,JEALOUSY,DISAPPOINTMENT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDANTICIPATION:SittingunnaturallystillPressingone’slipstogetherRubbingsweatyhandsonone’sclothesPretendingtoreadabookorwatchTVAcordedneckClampingone’shandstightlytogetherAvoidingconversationSneakingglancesataclockordoorwayFeigningboredomTellingoneselfthatitdoesn’tmatterActinginterestedinsomethingelseRollingone’sshouldersandneckasifstiffChangingthetopic


WRITER’S TIP: If a critique partner voices confusion over the emotionalreaction of one of your characters, check tomake sure the stimulus trigger isprominent. Showing the cause-effect relationship is vital when conveyingauthenticemotion.

ANXIETY

DEFINITION:mentalapprehensionandunease;asenseofforeboding

PHYSICALSIGNALS:RubbingthebackoftheneckCrossingthearms,formingabarriertoothersStandingwithonearmholdingtheotherattheelbowClutchingapurse,coat,orotherobjectWringingone’shandsTwistingawatchorringScratchingHandsrepeatedlyrisingtotouchone’sfaceFingeringanecklaceRollingone’sshouldersBouncingafootGlancingattheclock,phone,ordoorwayHoldingone’sstomachClutchingone’shandsRockinginplaceTwistingone’sneckasifsoreBitingatthelipsornailsHeadshakingShifting,unabletogetcomfortableBlowingoutaseriesofshortbreathstogaincontrolDigginginapurseorpockettokeepthehandsbusyBecomingeasilydistractedAdjustingclothesasiftheychafeRubbingatone’shandsAninabilitytoeatRubbingone’sarmsandlookingaroundBouncingacurledknuckleagainstthemouthAdartinggazeIncreasedawarenessofone’senvironmentStartingatnoisesExcessiveswallowingRepeatedlycheckingaphoneformessages

ImpatiencePraying

INTERNALSENSATIONS:FeelingtoohotortoocoldRestlesslegsDizzinessAchurningstomachIncreasedthirstTinglinginone’slimbsAtighteningchestAcceleratedbreathingFeelinglikeone’sinsidesarequivering

MENTALRESPONSES:Thinkingaboutworst-casescenariosSelfblameSeekingreassurancefromothersTimefeelinglikeit’sslowingdownDiscomfortinclosespacesIrrationalworriesReplayingtheeventsthatcausedthefeeling

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMANXIETY:ExcessivesweatingAraggedappearanceTalkingtooneselfunderthebreathRockinginone’sseatHeartpalpitationsPanicattacksHyperventilatingEmergenceoffears,phobias,orOCD-likesymptomsMAYESCALATETO:FEAR,DESPERATION,PARANOIA

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDANXIETY:FalsesmileAvoidingconversationFindingsomewheretobealoneDoingthingstoappearnormal(orderingfoodbutnoteatingit)

FeigninginterestinsomethingnearbyClosingone’seyesinanattempttostaycalmSmoothingorstrokingone’sownhairasasoothinggesture


WRITER’S TIP: For each scene, identify the emotion you need to show andthink in terms of three…what three ways have you reinforced the character’sfeelingsthroughverbalandnonverbalcommunication?

CONFIDENCE

DEFINITION:havingfaithinone’sowninfluenceandability

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Strongposture(shouldersback,chestout,chinhigh)WalkingwithwidestepsStronghygieneandpersonalgroomingHoldingthehandslooselybehindthebackTouchingone’sfingertipstogether(tapping,formingasteeple)Agleaminone’seye,aninnerlightSmiling,aplayfulgrinWinkingorgivingsomeoneaneasynodKeepingone’shandsoutofthepocketsAppearingrelaxed(drummingfingersagainstaleg,humming)Takingupspace(legsspreadwide,armslooseatthesides)ApproachingpeoplewitheaseLookingothersdirectlyintheeyeArmsswingingwhilewalkingChoosingthemiddle,notthesides(beitacouchoraroom)UsingexaggeratedmovementstodrawattentiontooneselfAboominglaughAtilted-backheadSpeakingboisterouslyOfferingwittycommentaryGivingahalf-shrugoragrinthatconveyssecretknowledgeLight-heartedteasingFlirtingAstronghandshakeLeaningbackinachair,handsbehindtheheadAneasygoingmannerStretchingShowingcomfortinthecloseproximityofothersInitiatingcontactTellingjokes,addingtoorsteeringaconversationHostingevents(gettingtheguystogetherforafootballgame)Opennesswhendealingwithpeople

AppearingunbotheredbywhatothersmaythinkLeaningintotalkorlistenIncreasedphysicalcontact,becomingtouchy-feelyRunninghandsthroughone’shairorflippingthehairbackAssumingaposethatdrawsattentiontoone’sbestattributesWearingclothesthatareflashyordramaticLeadingratherthanfollowing

INTERNALSENSATIONS:RelaxedmusclesEasybreathsLightnessinthechest

MENTALRESPONSES:AsenseofcalmandeaseApositiveoutlookInterestinwhatever’sgoingon

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMCONFIDENCE:DoingorsayingthingsoutsideofthenormwithoutanxietyorconcernObsessivelytalkingaboutanachievementormaterialobjectReactingwithangerorjealousyifone’sreputationisimpugnedBragging,showingoffMAYESCALATETO:SATISFACTION,SMUGNESS,CONTEMPT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDCONFIDENCE:MinimizingcomplimentsModestyChangingthetopictobringothersintothespotlightDownplayingone’sowncomfortleveltomakeothersfeelbetterAskingforopinionsoradvice


WRITER’STIP:Itisnaturaltoholdbackorhideourtruescopeofemotionsinthe presence of others.When writing a conflicted protagonist, it is critical toshowthroughactiontheemotionthecharacterwantstoconveytootherswhilealsoexpressingtheirtruefeelingstothereader.

CONFLICTED

DEFINITION:experiencingopposingemotions

PHYSICALSIGNALS:LipspressingtogetherinaslightgrimaceIncreasedswallowingorblinkingAsmilethatwaversGazeping-ponging,avoidingdirecteyecontactStart-and-stopgesturing(reachingthenhesitating,changingdirectionmid-stride)Brokendialogue,self-interruptionsOpeningandclosingthemouthStrugglingtofindtherightwordsVoicingsupport,butwithatonethatlacksenthusiasmBecomingquieter,lessanimatedScratchingone’sneckorcheekRubbingorpullingatanearAskingquestionstogainmoreinsightTalkingtoothersaboutsimilarexperiencesorsituationsGatheringopinionsonwhatotherswoulddoSoftheadshakingAneedtositdownandreflectRubbingorpinchingthebottomlipApensiveexpressionMakingaHmmmnoiseinthethroatTiltingtheheadinaside-to-siderhythmPullinginandthenslowlyreleasingadeepbreathApologizingforone’slacklusterreaction,citingmixedfeelingsRequestingsometimetodigesteverythingTappingone’sindexfingeragainstthelipBrowspullinginLookingdownwardRubbingatthemiddleofone’sforehead,eyesclosedVoicingconflict:ThisisatoughdecisionVoicingsurprise:Sorry,youcaughtmeoffguardKneesthatbend,thenstraightenArestlessstance,pacing

RubbingahandthroughthehairSmoothingone’sclothesortouchingitemstokeepthehandsbusyCancellinggestures(smilingwhileshakingthehead,noddingandgrimacing)Holdingone’selbowwhiletheoppositehandmakesafistagainstthemouthBlowingcheeksout,thenswallowingtheairorreleasingitWrinklingthenoseHoldinghandsoutand“weighing”themintheairRubbingahandagainstthefrontofone’sshirt(overheart)Forcingenthusiasmbecauseit’s“therightthingtodo”Subduedordelayedreactions

INTERNALSENSATIONS:HeadachesAheavinessinthebodyTightnessinthechestAsinkingfeelinginthestomachLossofappetite

MENTALRESPONSES:WeighingtheprosandconsResearchingorseekinginformationGuilttowardthosenegativelyaffectedbyafinaldecisionPlayingWhatif?tounderstandtherepercussionofasituationAneedtoverbalizetheinternalconflictAdesiretoretreatandgosomewherequiettothinkAninabilitytofocusonanythingbuttheinternalconflictDrawingonmoralbeliefstohelponedecide

CUESOFBEINGCONFLICTEDOVERTHELONGTERM:Adisheveledlook(hairoutofplace,clothesrumpled)Obsessiveinformation-gathering,lookingforthe“key”solutionStomachupset,poordiet,weightlossStressheadachesDifficultysleepingLossofselfconfidenceAvoidingmakinganydecisionsatallHairlossMAYESCALATETO:CONFUSION,OVERWHELMED,FRUSTRATION,ANXIETY

CUES WHEN SUPPRESSING THE FEELING OF BEINGCONFLICTED:CitingthatoneisnottheidealcandidatetomakethechoiceMakingexcusestoavoidthesituationSuggestingthatabreakisneededtoregroupMakingajoketoalleviatetensionorlightenthemoodGivingadistractednodtowhat’sbeingsaid


WRITER’STIP:Insceneswhereinformationmustbeshared,charactersshouldstillbemoving,acting,andrevealingemotiontokeepthepaceflowingsmoothly.

CONFUSION

DEFINITION:astateofbefuddlementorbafflement

PHYSICALSIGNALS:DifficultycompletingataskFumblingUsingumanduhhesitationsGrimacingExcessiveswallowingScratchingatone’scheekortempleRubbingthechinRepeatingbackwhatwassaidasaquestionTouchingthebaseoftheneckShowingone’spalmsandshruggingAnuncertaintoneIncreaseddifficultyinfindingtherightwordsBodyposturethatloosensorcollapsesTiltingone’sheadtothesideandpursingthelipsNarrowedeyesStutteringHeadflinchingbackslightlyTrailingoffwhenspeakingRunninghandsthroughthehairEyebrowsthatsquishtogetherPullingortuggingonanearAskingsomeonetorepeatwhatwassaidGazeclouding,goingdistantRubbingone’sforeheadoreyebrowsAskingquestionsFrowningBitingone’slipRapidblinkingHandstouchingthelips,mouth,faceGlancingaroundasiflookingforanswersWanderingashortdistanceawaybeforereturningTurningawaytogatherone’sthoughts

AslightheadshakeAmouththatopensbutnothingcomesoutBlowingoutthecheeks,thenreleasingAblanklook,aslackexpressionStaringdownatthegroundAskingforaffirmation:Areyousure?TappingafistagainstthelipsPokingone’stongueintothecheekDrywashingone’shands

INTERNALSENSATIONS:RisingbodyheatFlutteringinthestomachAtighteningchestSweatingFeelingoverheated

MENTALRESPONSES:ThoughtsthatfreezeHopingforaninterruptiontodelayansweringThemindracing,searchingforanswers

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMCONFUSION:FlightresponseFailinggradesLossofrespectfromothersforunfinishedorinaccurateworkBrokenorunfulfilledpromisesAlackofproductivityAlossofselfesteemMAYESCALATETO:OVERWHELMED,FRUSTRATION,RESIGNATION,INSECURITY

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDCONFUSION:Noddingoragreeing,toavoidattentionWavingahandFalseconfidenceAssuringothersthateverythingisundercontrolSmilingandnoddingPhysicaltouchestoreassure(aclaponthebackorshoulder)

FidgetingSteeringtheconversationtoadifferenttopicLaunchingintoaflurryofactivityMakingpromisesShowingasuddeninterestinotherthingsVisiblesweatingUsing“wordfiller”tostallfortime


WRITER’STIP:Menandwomenexperienceandexpressemotionsdifferently.Whenwritingacharacteroftheoppositesex,getasecondopinionifneededtoensureacharacter’sreactions,thoughts,andfeelingsareauthentic.

CONTEMPT

DEFINITION:alackofreverenceorrespect;toholdindisregard

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Crossingone’sarms,showingclosedbodypostureAdownturnedmouthHeadtiltingawaySneeringHeadshakingMockingRollingtheeyesUsingsarcasmGossipingSnortingloudlyBuzzingthelipstoberude(blowingaraspberry)BaitingtheotherpersonTurningthebodyatanangleinsteadoffacingthesubjecthead-onWalkingawayWavingdismissivelyStiffpostureRefusingtorespondorengageLoweringthechintolookdownonsomeoneColdeyesApinchedmouthAhard,distinctivejawlineSmirkingasthesubjectspeaksUglylaughterMakingjokesatanother’sexpenseFlashingacoldsmiletoshowinsinceritySpittinginthedirectionoftheoneprovokingcontemptStickingatongueoutAwidestance,chestthrustout

INTERNALSENSATIONS:RisingbloodpressureAtighteninginthechest

StiffnessintheneckandjawAroilingheatinthebelly

MENTALRESPONSES:NegativethinkingUnkindobservationsMentalinsultsAdesiretoverballyteardownorhurtanotherpersonWantingtoexposethesubject’signorance

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMCONTEMPT:SwearingandofferinginsultsYelling,arguingHighbloodpressureAveinthrobbingvisiblyintheforeheadThoughtsofviolenceAngrilydismissingsomeonefromone’spresenceNeedingtoleave(excusingoneself,cuttingameetingshort)MAYESCALATETO:DISGUST,SCORN,ANGER

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDCONTEMPT:FlushedskinBitingatthecheekFidgetingPressingthelipstogethertokeepfromspeakingDrywashingone’shandsPurposefullynotlookingatthesourceFeigninginterestinsomethingelseTurningawaytoignorethesourceBecomingnon-responsivePushingonthediaphragmtokeeptheangerinLeaningback,armscrossedMovingaway,creatingpersonaldistance


WRITER’S TIP: When revising, look for instances where emotions areNAMED. Nine times out of ten this indicates a lack of confidence that theemotionisshownclearlythroughthought,sensationsandbodylanguage.Strong

verbal and nonverbal cues negate the need to “explain” the emotion to thereader.

CURIOSITY

DEFINITION:inquisitiveness;adesireforknowledge

PHYSICALSIGNALS:TiltingtheheadtothesideRaisedeyebrowsBodyposturethatperksupAslowsmilethatbuildsRepeatingastatementasaquestionLeaningforward,slidingone’schaircloserPausingtoexamineEyebrowsfurrowingandthenreleasingBlinkingGazingwithfocusShiftingfromcasualconversationtopointedquestionsAsoftenedvoiceortonethatmaycontainwonderCrossingone’sarmswhileobservingPryingorsnoopingNose-wrinklingPosinghypotheticalquestionsLingeringtouchesStoppingtopayattention(asuddenhalt,aforkpausinghalfwaytothemouth)Strainingtohear,shushingotherstobequietEavesdroppingCuppinganelbowwithonehandwhiletappingthelipswiththeotherPushingone’sglassesupBending,kneeling,orsquattingtogetcloserTiltingone’sbodytowardthesourceShuffling,creeping,oredgingcloserExploringthesenses(smellingsomethingnewforthesakeofknowing,etc.)Verballyexpressinginterest:Oh,lookatthat!orIsn’tthatamazing?Askingquestions(who,what,when,where,andwhy)Pullingonsomeone’ssleevetogetthemtojoinorfollowAstilldemeanortoaidinobservationLipsthatareslightlypartedNoddingslowly

Pokingorproddingatsomething

INTERNALSENSATIONS:BreathsthathitchorbrieflystopAnincreasedpulse

MENTALRESPONSES:Aneedtoknow,touch,orunderstandForgettingwhatonewasabouttosayordoAcompulsiontodetourtowardsomethingnewTemporarycessationofworries,stress,oractionsAdesiretoinvestigateorexperimentIncreasedawarenessofsensoryinformationWonderorinterestathowsomethingworksorwhyit’sthere

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMCURIOSITY:FidgetingorticsHypersensitivitytothesourceofinterestObsessivethoughtsPointedorevenrudequestionsSnoopingorsneakingabouttosatisfytheneedtoknowMAYESCALATETO:EAGERNESS,AMAZEMENT,CONFLICTED

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDCURIOSITY:Keepingone’seyesdownHoldingthehandsinthelapLackofeyecontactProvidinganexcusetolingerormovetowardthesourcePretendingtoignoreorbeunawareAsidelongglanceUsingone’shairtohideaninterestedglanceFeigningboredom


WRITER’STIP:Smelltriggersmemory.Takeadvantageofthissenseandbuildolfactorydescription into the scene.Thiswill draw readers in andmake themfeelpartoftheaction.

DEFEAT

DEFINITION:thefeelingofhavingbeenmastered,conquered,orbested

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Chinloweringtoone’schestHandsthatgolimpHoldingone’spalmsupandoutShakingtheheadAlackofeyecontactStaringdownatone’shandsorfeetGoingquietornon-responsiveWeavinginplace,alackofbalanceAgreeingforthesakeofitArmshangingatone’ssidesAlong,lowsighAthickeningvoiceStumbling,kneeshitchingRubbingattheeyes,hidingrednessortearsfromothersBackingawayCheeksthatburnAbobbingAdam’sapple(thickswallows)HunchedorroundedshouldersSaggingpostureHandshiddenbehindthebackorinpocketsChintremorsArmsclutchingone’sbodyasiftoholdittogetherLacklustermovementsTonelessresponsesVacanteyesSlumpingintoachairHoldingone’sheadwiththehandsAcrackingvoice

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Feelingapulseinone’sthroatHeartthuddingdullyinthechest

WheezingbreathsFeelingliketheheadisspinningChestpainornumbnessAsourtasteinone’smouthAlackofenergyTearsorheatbehindtheeyelidsApainfullumpinone’sthroatLimbsthatfeeltooheavytoliftormove

MENTALRESPONSES:AdesiretofleeorbealoneShameWorryingthatotherswillfeelletdownordisappointedMentalfatigue

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDEFEAT:AquakingortremblingbodyUncontrollabletearsPleadingorbeggingCollapsing,kneesgivingoutSelf-loathingMAYESCALATETO:RESIGNATION,DEPRESSION,SHAME,HUMILIATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDEFEAT:ShakingtheheadFalsebravadoTryingtomaintaineyecontactDemandingarematchRepeatingthewordNoShouting,cursingLayingtheblameonothersMakingaccusationsofcheatingorunderhandednessAchinthatjutssharplyAflintygazeUsingangertofeedstrength


WRITER’STIP: To reveal quieter emotions, try using contrast.For example,pairing a character with someone who is highly volatile will help their ownmilderbodycuesstandoutclearly.

DEFENSIVENESS

DEFINITION: resisting attack; defending against a perceived danger orthreat

PHYSICALSIGNALS:SteppingbackLeaningawayCrossingthearmsoverone’schestRigidbodypostureSquintingeyesAloweringbrowSuckingthecheeksinShakingtheheadSputtering,gapingHoldinganobjectasashield(abook,afoldedjacket)AdartinggazeLickingone’slipsRapidblinkingthatleadstoawide-eyedlookHandsup,palmstowardtheaggressorAfixedstareFlippingone’shairinannoyanceAsnortofdismissivelaughterRaisingone’svoiceCrossingthelegsBodyshielding(turningatanangle)InterruptingLookingtoothersforbackupBlowingoutanoisybreathGoingontheoffensiveandverballyattackingtheaccuserDeflectingblameFlinching,jerkingbackDifficultybeingarticulateHandsplayingacrossone’supperchestStiffneck,cordsstandingoutChinloweringandpullingbackagainsttheneckWaggingafinger,beratinganotherfortheiraccusations

UsingsarcasmEyerollingRisingcolorinone’scheeksVisiblesweatingDraggingothersintothesituationforsupportVerbalizingdisappointmentordenialAvoicethathardensoverthecourseofanargumentJerkymovements,alossoffluiditytoactionsExcessiveswallowing

INTERNALSENSATIONS:RaisedbloodpressureApoundingheartbeatthatgrowsloudintheearsDrymouthAbodythatfeelshotIntensethirstThestomachtighteningandhardening

MENTALRESPONSES:Scramblingthoughts,tryingtodiffusethesituationAnger,shockFeelingbetrayedSiftingmemoriesforevidence(tosupportinnocenceorchallengeaccusations)

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDEFENSIVENESS:Eyesdartingforanexitorescape(flightresponse)ShoutingBringinguppastexampleswhenonesupportedtheaccuserorsavedthedayCitinganopponent’sshortcomingsIncreasingone’spersonalspaceStormingawayMAYESCALATETO:ANGER,FEAR

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDEFENSIVENESS:MaintaininganeventoneOfferingafakesmileAforciblycalmdemeanorChangingthesubjectDenial(shrugging,forcingalaugh)

Calmlystatingthatonedoesn’tneedtoproveanythingNotleavingorwalkingaway,despitediscomfortAttemptingtoreasonthroughfacts,notemotion


WRITER’S TIP: Choose each setting with deliberate care. Each locationshould symbolize something to your main character, and have an impact(positiveornegative)ontheirpsychecomingintothescene.

DENIAL

DEFINITION:arefusaltoacknowledgetruthorreality

PHYSICALSIGNALS:VerbaldisagreementBackingawayVigorousheadshakingWavingsomeoneoffDialogueinthenegative:Don’tblamemeorIhadnothingtodowithitSpeakingemphaticallywithfingerpointingorotherhardgesturesRaisingone’spalmsShruggingTuckingintheupperlipArmscrossingone’schest,closedbodyposturePlacingahandagainstthebreastboneAslackenedmouth,displayingshockSpeakingrapidly,notlettingothersgetawordinRationalizingorjustifyingShufflingbackwardSpeakingslowly,stretchingoutwords:What?Noway!Leaningback,creatingspaceWardingsomeoneorsomethingoffRaisedeyebrowsWideningeyesRaisingone’svoiceEmphaticallysayingNoSlantingthebodyawayfromanaccuserQuestioningsomeone’ssourceorthefactsMakingan“X”motionwithone’shandsEyecontactdropping(ifoneisunsureorlying)Choppyresponses,shortsentencesSweatingStaringdownatone’shands

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Mouthgoingdry

Alumpforminginone’sthroatFeelingheavyornumbHeatrisingbehindtheeyelidsTinglinginthestomach

MENTALRESPONSES:ReplayingpasteventsinordertounderstandThoughtscenteringonthefactsofthesituationBrainscramblingtofindalogicalexcuse(iflying)Angerorhurtatbeingputinthissituation

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDENIAL:BlamingothersPleading,crying,beggingtobebelievedBecomingclosed-minded,refusingtolistenWantingtobeleftaloneMAYESCALATETO:DEFENSIVENESS,HURT,GUILT,ANGER,CONFLICTED

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDENIAL:RefusingtoargueorrespondtoanaccusationSteadyeyecontactExplainingthatoneisnotindenialVoicingWe’llseecommentsSupplyingreasonstoconveythataviewpointisinvalidRepeatingthetruthasoneseesitandstickingtoitAsteady,eventone


WRITER’STIP:Makealistofyourbodylanguagecrutches(frowning,smiling,shrugging,headshaking,etc.).Useyourbrowser’ssearchfunctiontohighlightthese so you can pinpoint where the emotional description needs somefresheningup.

DEPRESSION

DEFINITION:astateofwithdrawal;extremesadnessandreducedvitality

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AgauntappearanceNotableweightlossorgainEyesthatblinkinfrequentlyWetorredeyesStaringdownatone’shandsBecomingnon-reactivetostimulusornoiseLayinginbedwithnomotivationtogetupSaggyposture,bentneckHeadrestingonone’shandTangledhair,overlongnails,andothersignsoflettingoneselfgoWearingthesameclothesdayafterdayShufflingstepsLethargichandmovementsObsessionwithanobjectthatrepresentsloss(aphotoortrinket)CryingAvacantstareMakingexcusesAdownturnedmouthLinesintheface,aslackexpressionDarkcirclesunderone’seyesAninabilitytosleepSleepingtoomuchPooreatinghabitsAtonethatlacksstrengthorvitalityAnuncleanhome,room,orofficespaceIgnoringphonecallsorvisitorsPrematureaging(wrinkles,tiredeyes,grayorwhitehair)IllnessHavingnointerestinhobbiesFailinggradesatschool,lackofsuccessatworkChoosingisolationDroppingoutofactivitiesandmovingawayfromfriendships

PickingatfoodorfindingfoodtastelessBeingunabletofocusontasks(work,school,homelife)Forgettingappointments,conversations,andmeetingsBulkyordullclothingchoicesNon-responsivenesstoothers,evenfamilyPoorconversationskillsBodyodor

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Ahollownessinone’schestAslowpulseAchesandpainsShallowbreathingFatigue

MENTALRESPONSES:FocusinginwardDesiringtoliveinthepastorbealonePoorobservationskillsObsessivethoughtsAnegativeoutlookAninabilitytoconcentrateLosingtrackoftimeThoughtsofself-harmBleakobservationsabouttheworldandthepeopleinitAnaversiontonoise,crowds,andstressfulsituations

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDEPRESSION:EatingdisordersManicbehavior(hairpulling,OCD,paranoia)ThoughtsofsuicideSuicideattemptsAddictiontomedicationHoardingMAYRELATETO:NOSTALGIA,REGRET,SADNESS

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDEPRESSION:SlightpausesbeforereactingEmotionaldisplaysthatseemforcedorfalse

Heavyself-medicatingordrinkingWearingfalse,overlybrightsmilesPretendingtobeilltoavoidsocialsituationsandpeopleLying


WRITER’STIP: It isn’t enough to showemotion;awriterneeds tomake thereader feel it. Think about the core visceral sensations you experience whenfeeling strong emotion, and if appropriate, utilize them to convey a similarexperiencetothereader.

DESIRE

DEFINITION:tocovet,wish,orlongfor

NOTE:theobjectofdesirecanbeaperson,athing,oranintangible(prestige,acceptance,etc.)PHYSICALSIGNALS:LipspartingFirmeyecontactHandsmoisteningStrokingone’sarmasasurrogatefortheobjectofdesireMirroringtheobject’smovements(ifaperson)TremblingLoweringone’svoicewhenspeakingLeaninginorforwardMovingclosertoerasedistanceRelaxingone’spostureFacingtheobjectstraightonEyesshining,glossingover,andsofteningSlightlypartingthelegsMuscleslosingtensionFrequenttouchingofthefaceandlipsHandsclenchingbriefly,thenreleasingBecominginarticulateSkinflushingIncreasedswallowingThetonguedartingouttotouchorlickthelipsKneeslooseningandfeelingweakRespondingimmediatelywhencalleduponTouchingorholdingtheobjectcloseAslowsmilethatbuildsSubconsciouslythrustingoutone’schestLiftingone’schintoexposetheneckHoldinginabreathStutteringorstammeringAlingeringtouch,brushingupagainsttheobjectTouchingorstrokingone’sownthroat

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Astrongawarenessofone’sownheartbeatThesensationofbeingfloodedwithwarmthThemouthbecomingmoist,increasedsalivaAsensationofhairraisingonone’sarmsandnapeFingersachingortinglingwiththeneedtotouchQuickeningbreathorbreathlessnessHypersensitivitytotouchandtextureFlutteringorevenmildpaininthechestLightheadednessAshiftingfeelingneartheheart,apangAshiverthatbringspleasureNerveendingsthatstirandtingleBodilycravingsofbeingtouchedbytheobject(person)

MENTALRESPONSES:Preoccupationwiththeobject’sscentFocusingontheobject’smostdesirablequalitiesTuningoutdistractionsinordertofixateontheobjectorwantAdesiretoerasealldistanceAneedtotouchandexploreDaydreamingorfantasizingabouttheobjectAdeterminationtohaveorownImpatienceAlossofinhibitionsSettinggoalstoobtaintheobjectTakingopportunitiesormeetingchallengestoproveone’sworthWantingtocareforandputtheobject’sneedsfirst

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDESIRE:Bumping,pushing,orshovingtogetcloserAwillingnesstoenduresufferingorhardshiptoobtaintheobjectNotcaringwhatothersthinkorfeelObsessivethoughtsCenteringallaspectsofone’slifeonbeingwiththeobjectNeglectingfriends,family,work,andotherinterestsFixationonself-improvement,education,orgoalsleadingtoachievementSheddingbadhabitsorflawstoappeaseorimpressMAYESCALATETO:ADORATION,LOVE,DETERMINATION,ENVY,

JEALOUSY

CUESOFREPRESSEDDESIRE:GlancingawayforabrieftimeFeigninginterestinsomethingelseMakingadisplayofengaginginconversationwithothersExaminingorpretendingtoconsiderotherobjectsSmilingatotherobjectsForcingaslowgaitratherthanrushingtobewiththeobject


WRITER’STIP:Emotionshouldalways lead todecisionmaking,eithergoodorbad,thatwillpropelthestoryforward.

DESPERATION

DEFINITION:astateofhopelessnessthatleadstorashness

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Feverish,over-brighteyesAdartinggazeQuickmovementsAninabilitytosleeporeatFingertwitches,compulsiveandrepetitivemovementsAherky-jerkywalkReachingortouchinginhopesofgaininghelporfavorFacingdangerhead-onActinginwaysthatpushthelimitsofendurancePacingAnxiouslymutteringtooneselfGrabbingfistfulsofone’shairandpullingApainedstareAnemotion-chokedvoiceFlutteryhandmovementsMoaningRockinginplaceBargainingShaking,tremblingCurlingthearmsovertheheadHuggingone’sshoulders,chinrestingonthechestStiffneck,strainedforearmsEyesthatappearwetTeethbitingdownonthebottomlipWringingone’shandsShoulderscurling,abentspineShakingone’sheadindenialProtectiveposture(chintochest,armsholdingthebodytight)DraggingnailsdownthecheeksRubbingone’supperarmsforcomfortAshakingvoiceSweatingprofusely

INTERNALSENSATIONS:RacingheartbeatAdrymouthAsorethroatfrompleading,crying,beggingAheightenedlevelofpainresistanceTightnessorpaininthechestExcessiveormanicenergy

MENTALRESPONSES:ConstantplanningandobsessingIrrationalthinking,poorjudgmentAwillingnesstodoanythingIgnoringthelaworsociety’svaluesCastingmoralityandgoodjudgmentasideSacrificingothersorlessergoals,desires,andneedsifnecessaryDisregardinganother’sfeelingsiftheyconflictwithone’sgoal

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDESPERATION:Crying,sobbing,wailingScreamingBeatingone’sfistsagainstsomethingtothepointofinjuryKneelingPleading,abasing,ordisregardingpersonalworthorprideExtremerisktakingOfferinganexchange:Takeme instead or I’ll go, you stay Pushing past one’slimitstofindneededstrengthRefusingtobepersuadedMAYESCALATETO:TERROR,DREAD,ANGER,DETERMINATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDESPERATION:HoldingoneselftightBelievingalieifitoffershopeFidgetingRetreatinginternallytocope,shuttingtheworldoutDifficultysittingstillClock-watchingReassuringothersFixingone’shairandclothestoappearunaffectedTakingadvantageofadistraction(watchingamovie,TV)

Curlinghandsintotightfists


WRITER’STIP:Clothingchoicesareindividualandprojectanimageofone’spersonality.Whencreatinguniqueemotionalbodylanguage,thinkabouthowacharacter’s clothing canbeutilized to reveal their insecurities or vanities andshowfeelingsofself-worth.

DETERMINATION

DEFINITION:firmintentiononachievingagoal;decisiveness

PHYSICALSIGNALS:BeingthefirsttospeakMovingintosomeone’spersonalspaceUsingarticulatewordsandshort,strongsentencesAsteady,lower-pitchedvoiceAfurrowingbrowTightmusclesAlertgazeAsetjawStrongeyecontactAcurtnodForminghandsintoasteepleMirroringtheleader’smovementsUsingaffirmativewords:YesandIwillPressingthelipstogetherTighteningfistsOrganizingone’sthings,beingpreparedStandingsolidly,atthereadyPlantingone’sfeetinawidestanceLeaningin,handononekneeAhighchin,neckexposedPushingupone’ssleevesShoulderspushingbackStrongposturePrecisemovementsSharphandmovements(jabbingafingerforemphasis,etc.)Afast-pacedstrideAskingpointedquestionsStraightenedlegs,kneesuncrossedThrustingthechestoutOfferingafirmhandshakeInhalingdeeplythroughthenose,thenexhalingthroughthemouthExudingcalmandfocus

PracticingaskillMakingpreparationsorconditioningthebodyStudyingorgatheringinformationAcceptingcriticismtoimprove

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AflutteryfeelinginthechestIncreasedinternaltemperatureandheartbeatMusclestighteninginreadiness

MENTALRESPONSES:PlanningforobstaclesandstrategizingwaystoovercomethemMentallyencouragingoneselftosucceedActivelisteningAnacutesenseofpurposeIgnoringdistractionsordiscomfortsExtremementalfocusontheobjectiveRunningthroughwhatonemustsayordoDismissingnegativethoughtsSettinggoals

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDETERMINATION:ConditioningforthetaskinadvanceMuscleclenchingalongthejawlineHeadachesMusclestrainIgnoringpain,stress,oranyoutsideelementsSacrificingwhatisneededtoachievethedesiredresultMAYESCALATETO:HOPEFULNESS,CONFIDENCE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDETERMINATION:PurposelyadoptingalanguidposeFeigningdisinterestMeaninglessgestures(scrutinizingcuticles,checkingforsplitends)Placingone’shandsinone’spocketsEngaginginbanterornon-threateningconversationBenignquestionsYawningShrugging

LaughingormakingjokesmeanttodisarmAlackofeyecontactClosingone’seyesasifrelaxedordosing


WRITER’STIP:Neverunderestimatethepowerof texture.Thewayanobjectfeelsagainst theskincancreateapowerfulreaction(positiveornegative)andaddtothereader’semotionalexperience.

DISAPPOINTMENT

DEFINITION:astateofdismayordissatisfaction;feelingletdown

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Loweringone’sheadLipspressingtightShouldersdroppingorslumpingAhunchedpostureLookingupwithhandsraisedinthewhyme?positionCollapsingontoachairorbenchWeavingslightlyAbittersmileAheavysighCoveringone’sfacewithone’shandsBreakingeyecontactBendingtheneckforwardSlowlyshakingone’sheadTiltingthechindownandfrowningMakinganoiseinone’sthroatSwallowinghardSaggingagainstadoororwall,reachingouttosteadyoneselfDroppingthehead,eyesclosedStumblingmid-strideFacegoingslackandpalingslightlyThemouthfallingopenPressinghandstoone’stemplesWeavinghandsintothehairandpullingFrowningAstonyexpressionWateringeyesthatdisplayaninwardfocusWincing,apainedexpressionLookingaroundinconfusionorshockAttemptingtohide(coveringthehead,duckingone’schin)RestlessfiddlingHandsflutteringlikethey’velosttrackofwhattheyshouldbedoingFeetshuffling,kickingattheground

Rubbingatthebackofone’sneckAvoicethatdropsorgoesquietWhisperingNoorcursingunderthebreathBitingorchewingatthelipClutchingoneself(grippingtheelbows,rubbingthearms)PressingahandtotheabdomenSlinkingaway(flightresponse)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Aheartthatfeelslikeit’sshrinkingAclenchingstomachSuddenonsetofnauseaAtighteningchestBreathsthathitchAheavinessinthebody

MENTALRESPONSES:NegativityAfeelingofdreadorhopelessnessDefeatistthoughtsaboutoneselfWantingtobealoneFeelingworthless

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDISAPPOINTMENT:BeratingoneselfWallowing(drinkingtoomuch,listeningtodepressingsongs)ObsessingoverwhythingshappenedthewaytheydidAninabilitytomoveonMAYESCALATETO:DEPRESSION,DEFEAT,RESENTMENT,ANGER

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDISAPPOINTMENT:AslightlippressDroppingtheshoulders,thenhitchingthemupagainOfferingfalsecheer,aweaksmileComfortingothersCitingabackupplanorlistingmoreoptionsMakingpromisesClaspingone’shandsinone’slap

Congratulatingthevictor


WRITER’S TIP: Characters experiencing raw emotion often react withoutthinking—either throughdialogueoraction.Rashbehavior creates theperfectstormforincreasedtensionandconflict.

DISBELIEF

DEFINITION:withholdingbelief;arefusaltoseethetruth

PHYSICALSIGNALS:MouthslackeningEyeswideningLookingdownorawayRubbingataneyelidorbrowBeingatalossforwordsTurningawayandcoveringthemouthExpressionblanching,goingpaleAskingAreyousure?questionsScratchingone’sjawAshakeoftheheadRubbingabsentlyatthearmsVerbalizingshock:Areyoukidding?orImpossible!Movingbackslightly,increasingone’spersonalspaceShowingone’spalmsLiftingasingleeyebrowCockingtheheadAnunfocusedgazeRapidblinkingRunninghandsthroughone’shairGaping,stuttering,mouthopeningandclosingHandsdroppingtoone’ssidesPostureslumpingslightlyNeckbendingforwardHandscarvingthroughone’shair,holdingitbackandthenreleasingPullingglassesdownandlookingovertherimsOpenlystaringCoveringone’searsRepeatingNoandothernegatives:It’snottrue!FoldingthearmsoverthestomachStaringatone’spalmsasiftheyholdtheanswersJiggling,tugging,ortappingtheearlobeDoingadoubletake

Wavingsomethingoff

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Atinglinginone’schestAhardeningorclenchingstomachAsmallintakeofbreath(gasp)LightheadednessRestrictedbreathing

MENTALRESPONSES:Makinganimmediatemoraljudgment(eithergoodorbad,wrongorright)ThoughtsscramblingtounderstandAttemptingtoreasonorgleanmoreinformationPretendingtohavemisheard

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDISBELIEF:ArestlessstanceArguingWalkingawayVoicingtheemotionoverandover:Ijustcan’tbelievethisDifficultyspeaking,choppyresponsesHoldingahanduptowardoffthetruthDemandingthosewithinfluencedosomethingtochangetheoutcomeClosedbodyposture(armscreatingabarrieracrossthechest)MAYESCALATETO:DENIAL,ANGER,OVERWHELMED,RESIGNATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDISBELIEF:ChangingthetopicAnervouslaughMakingexcusesSupportingtheoutcome,actinglikeonewas“intheknow”allalongReassuringothersofone’sbelief,commitment,etc.AskingquestionstogleaninformationwithoutgivingawaydisbeliefThroatclearingCoughing,pretendingadrinkwentdownwrongAvoidingeyecontactOfferingfakeplatitudes:InterestingorWell,that’sgoodthen.


WRITER’STIP:Whilemelodrama is usually a bad idea in fiction, it can beusedeffectivelytocharacterizeanover-the-topcharacter.

DISGUST

DEFINITION:anaversion,usuallytosomethingdistasteful;revulsion

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AcurlinglipAnopenmouth,thetonguepushingslightlyforwardWrinklingone’snoseFlinching,recoilingSwallowinghardLeaningbackStrokingthethroatandgrimacingTurningone’sbacktothesourceEyesthatappearcold,dead,flatRefusingtolookShakingone’shead,mutteringWalkingawaytoregaincomposureToescurlingupPullingupacollartocoverthemouthandnoseAvertingone’sgazeSpittingorthrowingupHandsup,backingawaywithashudderRepeatingwhatsomeonehassaid,purposelydevoidofallemotionDrywashingthehandsPressingafistagainstthemouthandpuffingoutthecheeksRubbingatone’sexposedforearmsCoveringthemouthJerkingawayfromcontact,oreventhesuggestionofcontactPressinghandsagainstthestomachDemandingthatsomeonestopspeakingordesistwhattheyaredoingViolentlyrollingshouldersasifone’sownclothingiscreatingdiscomfortUsingapurseorjackettocreateashieldShunningorofferingevasiveanswersEyebrowsloweringandpinchingtogetherPressingone’skneestogetherNarrowingone’sstance,bringingthefeettogetherAfacethatblanches

Rubbingatone’snoseormouthDryheavingCringingawayfromthesourceAnexpressionthatappearspained

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AchokingoruncomfortableswallowExcessivesaliva,aneedtospitAsourorbittertanginthemouthNauseaoraheavingstomachBurninginthethroatSkintightening(crawlingfleshsensation)

MENTALRESPONSES:AcompulsiontofleeFeelinguncleanWishingtobesomewhereelseThemindreplayingwhatwasseeninagonizingdetail

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDISGUST:Focusingoncleanliness(showering,rubbingskinraw)Hyper-protectivenessofpersonalspaceActingjumpyorjitterywhennearthesourceBecomingnon-responsive,lessverbalAnintenseneedtofleethesourceMAYESCALATETO:SCORN,FEAR,ANGER

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDISGUST:OfferingawaterysmilewhilemaintainingasafedistanceForcingoneselftocomecloserMaintainingeyecontact,nomatterhowdifficultWavingahandasifsomethingdoesn’tmatterBitingthelipSlowlywalkingcloser,butkeepingarmsclosetothebodyStandingawayandreachinginwithonehandHesitatingHeavy,jerkymovementsAfrozensmile


WRITER’S TIP: With extreme emotions that trigger an immediate fight-or-flight response, it’s important to know which “side” fits best with yourcharacter’spersonality.Allactionsshouldlineupwiththischoice.

DOUBT

DEFINITION:tolackconfidenceinorconsiderunlikely

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Browsdrawingcloser,facetighteningLookingdownorawayAvoidingeyecontactPressingthelipstogetherShufflingone’sfeetShovinghandsinpocketsThroatclearingThumbingtheearExpressingconcernCheckingandrecheckingone’sappearanceDelayingtactics(suggestingtimetoreviewoptions,etc.)Pauses,ums,orotherconversationfillersTakingaslightstepbackLingeringattheedgeofagrouporeventBitingone’scheekDeclininganofferofsupportRunninghandsthroughthehairPullingortuggingatone’sclothesAsmilethatappearstightAhesitatingnodRockingonone’sheels,pretendingtostudythefloorCockingtheheadwhileraisingtheeyebrowsSwallowingmorethanusualTippingone’sheadsidetoside,weighinganideaorchoiceTappingthefingerstogetherSlightlyclenchedfistsAdeep,weightedsighPursingthelipsShruggingShakingtheheadAskingforassurancesorclarificationArguingorquestioning

CitingpossiblerepercussionsRubbingthebackoftheneckFiddlingwitharingorbuttontoavoideyecontactPuttingahandovertheface,closingtheeyesDrawinginbreath,thenreleasingitTactfullyofferingalternativesuggestionsHesitation(acceptingaleafletwithreluctance,etc.)Crossingthearmsorlegs

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Aslightheavinessorquiverinthestomach

MENTALRESPONSES:WorryingoverthecurrentpathLookingaheadtopossiblecollateraldamageSearchingforideasonhowtocircumventthesituationDredgingupevidenceinordertoswayopinionsHopingorprayingitwillworkout

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDOUBT:AvoidingspeakingoragreeingopenlySharingalookwithanally,raisingtheeyebrowstoconveyamessageWincingasothersrallybehindaweaksolutionMAYESCALATETO:WORRY,DISBELIEF,UNEASE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDOUBT:FidgetinginachairCoughingasoneagreesorsupportsadoubtfuldecisionorstanceMimickingconfidence(straightening,speakinginaboomingvoice)LyingormisleadingothersMakingexcusesfornotagreeingimmediatelyReassuringothersofloyalty,commitment,etc.OfferingtohandletheprobleminsteadDelayingverbalsupport


WRITER’STIP:When steering your character through scenes that allow foremotional growth, don’t forget to also provide setbacks. The path to

enlightenmentisn’tsmoothforanyone,includingourcharacters.

DREAD

DEFINITION:anearlyoverpoweringfeartofaceormeet;astrongdesiretoavoidafutureeventorcircumstancePHYSICALSIGNALS:HoldingthestomachasifpainedClutchingarmstoone’schestShoulderscurlingforward,cavingthechestinAbentneckLeaningbackorawayfromthesourceofdiscomfortDraggingfootstepsMakingexcusestoleaveAquietvoice,offeringone-wordresponsesHunchedpostureandadroopingheadClaspingone’skneestightlytogetherAvoidingeyecontactTurningthetorso,shieldingitLiftingtheshouldersasiftohideone’sneckSweatingRockingslightlyHandsthattrembleSeekingthesafetyofdarkness,anexit,etc.Holdingone’selbowstightlyagainstsidesAdownwardgaze,usingthehairasashieldMakingoneselfappearsmallerHuddlinginthecorner,behind,oragainstsomethingFlinchingorcringingHeavyfootstepsUncontrollablewhimperingIncreasedswallowingArmscrossingthestomachinaprotectivehuddleRubbingandtwistingone’shands,spinningringsorbraceletsScratchingattheskin,pickingorbitingatnailsClutchingcomfortitems(anecklacecharm,phone,etc.)Draggingthepalmsdownone’spantlegsChewingatone’slipsorinnercheekandmakingthembleedApaleorsicklycomplexion

INTERNALSENSATIONS:ArollingstomachHeavyorsluggishheartbeatChillsColdfingersTinglinginthechestAweightedchestDifficultybreathingAsourtasteinthemouthAcheinthebackofthethroatDifficultyswallowingDizzinessShakinessinthelimbs

MENTALRESPONSES:ThoughtsofescapeWantingtohideWishingtimewouldspeedupAninabilitytoseeapositiveoutcomeTheneedtocheckfordangeroverridingtheneedtohide

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMDREAD:Shaking,shudderingJumpingatsoundsTeethchatteringWeepingSeekinganyexcusetoavoidwhatistocomeHyperventilatingBargaining,pleadingAnxietyattackMAYESCALATETO:ANGUISH,TERROR

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDDREAD:ActinglikeoneissimplyfeelingundertheweatherAttemptingtoescapeviadistraction(TV,book,music)FocusingthoughtstokeepfearfromtakingoverKeepingstill


WRITER’STIP:Maintainanoverallperspectiveofthebook’semotionalrange.A strong manuscript will always expose the reader to several contrastingemotionalexperiencesthatfitwithinthecontextoftheprotagonist’sgrowth.

EAGERNESS

DEFINITION:enthusiasmforwhatistocome

PHYSICALSIGNALS:LeaningforwardEyesthatglowRushingone’swordsSpeakinginabubblyorloudtoneRaptattention,noddingUsingexcitablelanguageAgreeabilitytowhateverissuggestedFiddlingwithanobjecttokeepthehandsbusySqueezingthehandsatone’ssidesStrongeyecontactTalkingoverothersRaisingahandimmediatelytobecalledonAskingquestions,requestinginformationRubbingthehandstogetherLeaningforwardwithahandonthekneeSittingattheedgeofachairAllowingothersintoone’spersonalspaceLickingone’slips,smilingFeetpointingforwardShouldersstraightandbackAnimatedgesturingBouncingonone’stoesMoving,fidgeting,pacingBlowingoutalongbreathandsmilingEyeswide,rounded,withveryfewblinksHandsclutchedtogetherHeadup,alertAfastwalk,jog,orrunSharingalookorwinkwithanotherClamberingclosertoagrouporeventWhisperinginhushed,excitabletonesScuffingachairclosertothetable

ArrivingearlyQuirkinganeyebrowandsmilingFriendliness,evenwiththosenotinone’sownsocialcirclePullingorproddingotherstohurryup

INTERNALSENSATIONS:FlutterystomachIncreasedheartbeatAnexpandingfeelinginthechestBreathlessnessAdrenalinecausingalertness

MENTALRESPONSES:FocusedlisteningStrongorganizationandpreparednessAninabilitytoconcentrateonanythingelseDesiringtoshareandincludeothersLosingallinhibitionsPositiveoutlookandthinkingAwillingnesstotakeonresponsibility,tohelporlead

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMEAGERNESS:Preparingearly,oftenhoursordaysbeforeneededPlanningorobsessingovereverydetailSeekingperfectionHurryingorrushingtomakethingshappenquickerMAYESCALATETO:EXCITEMENT,IMPATIENCE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDEAGERNESS:ClampingthehandsinthelapTightmusclesForcingoneselftositstillSlowingone’sspeech,concentratingonbeingarticulateAseriesofdeepbreathsTakingupataskorchoretopassthetimeFeigningdisinterestbyadoptingalooseandrelaxedpostureMakingaslightdetourasaruse


WRITER’S TIP: To generate friction in dialogue, give the participantsopposing goals. A heightened emotional response is the natural result of notgettingwhatoneneeds.

ELATION

DEFINITION:inhighspirits;astateofeuphoriaorexhilaration

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Highcolor,aflushedappearanceAsmileorgrinthatcannotbecontainedLaughingSquealing,screaming,shouting,whooping,holleringFallingtoone’skneesJumpingupanddownTalkingoveroneanother,babblingHoldingarmsupina“victoryV”Headtippingback,turningone’sfacetotheskyRunningavictorylapAbeamingface,strongcolorandsheenEmbracingothersDancinginplaceWhoopingloudlyNotcaringwhatothersthink,alackofself-consciousnessEnjoyingcommunalhappiness,feelingpartofthecrowdRepeatingwordsoverandover:Wow!orIcan’tbelieveit!Flingingoutthearmsandlegs,takingawidestanceThrustingthechestoutEyeswideandglowingGrabbingatthesidesoftheheadinan“Ican’tbelieveit”gestureHighenergy,abouncingwalkorrun,skippingHugging,kissing,orotherdisplaysofaffectionBreakingoutintoarunHappytears,shiningcheeksThrowingsomethingintotheair—ahat,books,confetti,helmetSweatingThrustingafistintothesky

INTERNALSENSATIONS:WarmthradiatingthroughoutthebodyRacingheartbeat,drumminginthechest

Feelingultra-awake,rejuvenatedbyadrenaline

MENTALRESPONSES:Thoughtsscatter,tooexcitedtothinkstraightWantingtobesurroundedbyfamilyandfriendsFeelingvindicatedfortheeffort,sacrifice,orhardworkRevisitingthehurdlesleadingtothismomentGratitudetothosewhohelpedmakethispossible

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMELATION:TearsstreamingdownthefaceLossofmotorcontrolTremblingmusclesSinkingtotheground,exhaustedBreathlessnessLosingone’svoicefromscreamingorshoutingSpeechlessnessMAYESCALATETO:SATISFACTION,PRIDE,GRATITUDE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDELATION:Agrinthatcan’tbecontainednomatterhowhardonetriesBottlingupone’sbreathstotryandcalmdownSelf-huggingtocontainthefeelingClosingtheeyesandcoveringthemouthQuiveringwiththeeffortofcontrollingoneselfLookingdowntohideagrin


WRITER’STIP:Makealistofthebodypartsyouincorporatewhenexpressingemotion.Arethereonesyoudon’tuseatall?Challengeyourselftocomeupwitha unique cue by using one of these “missing” parts, and substitute it for agesturethatisoverused.

EMBARRASSMENT

DEFINITION:alackofcomposureduetoself-consciousdiscomfort

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AflushthatcreepsacrossthecheeksVisiblesweatingThebodyfreezinginplaceGrimacingorswallowingEarsthatturnredThechindippingdownThechestcavingAbentspineHandscurlingaroundone’smiddleFeetshufflingClearingthethroatCoughingCoveringoneself(crossingthearms,closingajacket)PullingatthecollarRubbingthebackoftheneckWincingCoveringthefacewithhandsCringingorshakingFidgeting,squirmingStuttering,stammeringFlinchingawayfromtouchesAweakenedvoiceSpeechlessnessToescurlingupKneespullingtogetherArmstuckinginatthesidesSlidingdowninachairLookingdown,unabletomeetsomeone’seyesShouldersslumpingorcurlingforwardRespondingwithanger(shoving,punching)Grittingone’steeth,pressingthelipstightShovinghandsinpockets

FiddlingwithshirtsleevesHidingbehindabookShielding(havingadeathgriponapurse)AwalkthatacceleratesintoasprintUsinghairtohideone’sfaceGlancingaboutforhelp,anexit,orescapeTuggingahatdownloworpullingahoodovertheheadAtremblingchin

INTERNALSENSATIONS:ExcessiveswallowingLightheadednessAtinglingthatsweepsupthebackoftheneckandacrossthefaceAtighteningchestStomachhardeningordroppingwithamanifestationofdreadTheface,neck,andearsfeelingimpossiblyhotRushedbreathingArapidheartbeat

MENTALRESPONSES:Acompulsiontoflee(fight-or-flight)MuddiedorpanickedthoughtsAdisconnectwherethemindstruggleswithbelief:Thiscan’tbehappening!Thoughtssearchingforasolution

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMEMBARRASSMENT:CryingRunningfromtheroomorsituationPlummetingself-esteemFearofpublicspeakingorbeingondisplayWithdrawingfromgroups,activities,andsocialinteractionLossofappetiteObsessingabouttheembarrassingevent,relivingitPoorsleepWeightlossMAYESCALATETO:HUMILIATION,DEPRESSION,REGRET,SHAME

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDEMBARRASSMENT:

PretendingtonothaveheardorseenIntenselyconcentratingonsomethingelse,activelyignoringothersAfakesmilePretendingtolaughitoffChangingthetopicinanywaypossibleLyingDeflectingattentionandassigningblametoanother


WRITER’S TIP: Be wary of showing emotion too readily through the act ofcrying.Inreallife,ittakesalottoreachatearfulstateandsoitshouldbethesameforourcharacters.

ENVY

DEFINITION: resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by another,pairedwithalongingtoacquirethatadvantageNOTE:theadvantagecanbea person, an object, or an intangible (popularity, lifestyle, etc.) PHYSICALSIGNALS:StaringGloweringThemouthturningdownLipspartingslightlyAtighteningundertheeyesAthinningmouthChinpokingforwardSquintingBaringtheteethslightlyApoutybottomlipCrossingthearmsoverthechestShouldershunchingslightlyLeaningcloserReachingFlaringnostrilsAcovetinggazethatdriftstothesymbolofenvy(theadvantage)Beingsnarkyorrude,seeminglywithoutcauseShovingone’shandsintopocketsTwitchinghandsHandstighteningintofistsMusclesbunchingTurningawayfromtheadvantageandstalkingoffSwallowingfrequentlyRubbingthehandsoverone’sclothingFeetandtorsofacingtheadvantageLickingorsuckingonthebottomlipSweatyhandsAreddeningofthefaceRubbingatormassagingone’schestasifpainedStrokingorpinchingone’sthroatTakingasteptowardthepersonorobjectonewants

Obsessivebehavior(stalking,makingaplantoacquiretheadvantage)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:QuickheartbeatRibssqueezingtightRisingbodytemperatureApullingsensationinthegutDrythroatSuckinginbreaththroughclenchedteeth

MENTALRESPONSES:Astrongdesiretotouch,hold,andownAngerattheunfairnessorinjusticeUnkindthoughtsabouttheotherpersonFrustrationSchemingwaystoacquirewhatanotherhasSelf-loathingFantasizingabouttheadvantageAninabilitytocommittoorfocusonanythingelseDissatisfactionwithwhatonedoeshaveAfeelingofentitlement:IdeserveitorThatshouldbemineCUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMENVY:Feelingthatlifeisn’tworthlivingwithouttheadvantageGrabbingorstealingthecovetedobjectFightingorarguingwiththeenviedonetoreleasefrustrationFalselybelittlingorminimizingtheattributesofthedesiredadvantageorobjectIrrationalthinkingMakingdemands:Giveittome.MAYESCALATETO:DETERMINATION,RESENTMENT,ANGER,DEPRESSION,JEALOUSY

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDENVY:CongratulatingorofferingpraiseForcingasmileAcknowledgingtheobjectandcomplimentingitAttemptingnottostareWatchingfromadistance


WRITER’S TIP: When crafting the physical movement of a fight scene,remember that less ismore.Toomanydetails createaplay-by-play feelwhichcancomeacrossasmechanical.

EXCITEMENT

DEFINITION: thestateofbeingenergizedor stimulatedandprovoked toact

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AwidegrinEyesthatsparkleandgleamLaughingBouncingfromfoottofootSquealing,hooting,yellingTellingjokesChestbumpingwithothersAloudvoiceSinging,humming,chantingSlam-dunkingtrashintoabarrelafteragameoreventBabblingortalkingoveroneanotherinagroupsettingFanningoneselfPretendingtofaintVerbalizingthoughtsandfeelingswithouthesitationLiftingsomeoneuporswingingthemaroundTremblingActinghyper,immature,orfoolishoutofasenseoffunAruddycomplexionMovingabout,beingunabletostaystillGood-naturedshovingandpushingWavingthearms,usinggrandgesturesDrummingone’sfeetagainstthefloorHugging,grabbingontosomeone’sarmandholdingitBumpingshouldersRaisinguporbouncingontiptoePhoningortextingtosharenewsorpassontheexcitementSpeed-talkingwithothers,headsclosetogether,gossipyThroatylaughterGettingthegigglesFriendlydemands:Tellme!Showme!Let’sgo!Abodythat’sconstantlyinmotion(nodding,bobbing,weaving,pacing)

Adistinctwalk,afast-pacedstrutMakingeyecontactwithothers,confidenceDisplayingaffectionwithfriendsorlovedones

INTERNALSENSATIONS:LightnessinthechestAfastpulseDrymouthHeightenedsensesBreathlessnessAdrenalinerush

MENTALRESPONSES:CamaraderiewithothersImaginingwhatcouldhappenEnjoymentofthecommunalenergyImpatience

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMEXCITEMENT:Aneedtorun,jump,scream,whoopitupAnintensedesiretosharethefeelingwithothersAbeamingfaceRacingheartbeatSweatingAhoarsevoicefromscreaming,yelling,orshoutingAlossofinhibitionsMAYESCALATETO:SATISFACTION,HAPPINESS,ELATION,DISAPPOINTMENT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDEXCITEMENT:Controllingone’smovementwithintentBitingdownonasmileSwallowingalaughorshoutofgleeFeelinglikeone’sinsidesarevibratingSmoothingdownclothingEyesthatglowwithinnerlightNoddingratherthanspeaking


WRITER’S TIP: If you’re stuck on how to show an emotion, form a strongimageofthesceneinyourmind.Letthesceneunfold,andwatchthecharactertoseehowtheymoveandbehave.

FEAR

DEFINITION:tobeafraidof;toexpectthreatordanger

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Faceturningashen,white,pallidHairliftingonthenapeandarmsBodyodor,coldsweatsClammyhandsTremblinglipsandchinTendonsstandingoutintheneck,avisiblepulseElbowspressingintothesides,makingone’sbodyassmallaspossibleFreezing,feelingrootedtothespotRapidblinkingTightshouldersStaringbutnotseeing,eyesshutorcryingHandsjammedintoarmpitsorself-huggingBreathburstinginandoutLegmusclestightening,thebodyreadytorunLookingallaround,especiallybehindAshrillvoiceLoweringthevoicetoawhisperKeepingone’sbacktoawallorcornerShakinguncontrollablyGrippingsomething,knucklesgoingwhiteStiffwalking,thekneeslockingBeadsofsweatontheliporforeheadGrabbingontosomeoneEyesappearingdampandoverlybrightStutteringandmispronouncingwords,tremorsinthevoiceJerkymovements,squirmingLickingthelips,gulpingdownwaterSprintingorrunningSweepingahandacrosstheforeheadtogetridofsweatGaspingandexpellingone’sbreathasifpainedUncontrollablewhimperingPleading,talkingtooneself

Flinchingatnoises

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AninabilitytospeakShakinessinthelimbsHoldingbackascreamorcryHeartbeatracing,nearlyexplodingDizziness,weaknessinthelegsandkneesAlooseningofthebladderChestpainHoldingone’sbreath,gulpingdownbreathstostayquietAstomachthatfeelsrockhardHypersensitivitytotouchandsoundAdrenalinespikes

MENTALREACTIONS:WantingtofleeorhideThesensationofthingsmovingtooquicklytoprocessImagesofwhat-could-beflashingthroughthemindFlawedreasoningJumpingtoacourseofactionwithoutthinkingthingsthroughAskewedsenseoftime

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMFEAR:Uncontrollabletrembling,faintingInsomniaHeartgivingoutPanicattacks,phobiasExhaustionDepressionSubstanceabuseWithdrawingfromothersTics(arepetitivegrimace,aheadtwitch,talkingtooneself)ResistancetopainfromrushingadrenalineMAYESCALATETO:ANGER,TERROR,PARANOIA,DREAD

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDFEAR:KeepingsilentDenyingfearthroughdiversionortopicchange

TurningawayfromthecauseofthefearAttemptingtokeepone’svoicelightAwaterysmilethat’sforcedintoplaceMaskingfearwithareactiveemotion(angerorfrustration)FalsebravadoOver-indulgenceinahabit(nailbiting,lipbiting,scratchingtheskinraw)Ajokingtone,butthevoicecracks


WRITER’STIP:Primereaders foranemotionalexperiencebydescribingthemoodofasceneasyourcharacterentersit.Ifyourcharacterisantsy,thereaderwillbetoo.

FRUSTRATION

DEFINITION: vexation caused by unresolved problems or unmet needs;thefeelingofbeinghinderedPHYSICALSIGNALS:PinchingthelipstogetherHoldinghandsbehindtheback,grippingone’sownwristRushedspeechTappingone’sfingerstoreleaseenergySwearingPointingwithanindexfingerScratchingorrubbingthebackoftheneckShakingtheheadJerkymovements(talkingwiththehands,changingdirectionmid-stride)PacinginshortspansStiffposture,rigidmuscles,acordedneckClenchingthejawSpeakingthroughtheteethwithforcedrestraintAnimpatientsnortorsneerDrawingbreathandreleasingitbeforespeakingSplayinghandsoutwidetostretch,thenrelaxingthemBaringone’steethSwearingThrowinghandsupinan“Igiveup”gestureStalkingawayfromsomeone,leavinginahuffAttemptingtohurtthroughname-callingandpersonaljabsSpeakingwithoutthought,oftenleadingtoregretSlammingadoorGrabbingone’shairinclumps,lookingupattheskyAheavysighAstrainedvoiceLayingone’sheaddownonthetableStiltedspeakingEyessquinting,tighteningAharriedappearanceRunninghandsthroughthehairFiststight,fingernailsbitingintothepalmsApinched,tension-filledexpression

ScrubbingahandoverthefacePoundingafistagainstatabletopScrunchingupthefaceandthenreleasing,tryingtoregaincalmHoldingone’sheadinone’shandsAhighchinArmscrossinginfrontofthechestClumsinessduetorushing(sloppingcoffee,knockingsomethingover)TheatricalgroaningRestlessness

INTERNALSENSATIONS:ThroatclosingupHardeningofthestomachTightnessinthechestHighbloodpressureHeadacheJawpain

MENTALRESPONSES:ExtremefocusonproblemsolvingReplayingasceneoreventoverandoverinone’smind,obsessingoveritSelf-talkingtocalmdown,tothinkstraightAneedtoaskquestionsandrehashinformationReininginone’semotionsbeforedamagingrelationships

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMFRUSTRATION:Shouting,yelling,ranting,screaming,orcriticizingCrying,sobbingPleading,bargaining:Pleasestop!StormingoutofaroomAninabilitytosleeporrelaxProfusesweatingUsingmore force than necessary (stomping feet, throwing instead of handingoff)A display of violence (kicking, grabbing, shaking, or destroying something inrelease)Atantrum(screaming,bodyflungdownonthefloor,crying)MAYESCALATETO:CONTEMPT,ANGER,IMPATIENCE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDFRUSTRATION:GrittedteethSwipingattears,tryingtohidethemSilenceorminimalresponsesBrieflyclosingone’seyesTakingadeepbreathScrapingahandoverthefaceasiftowashawayemotionExcusingoneselfandleavingTryingtoshakeorrolltensionfromtheshoulders


WRITER’STIP:Useacharacter’sintuitiontodrawthereadermorefullyintothescene.Ifyoushowwhathasprimedtheirintuitionclearly,thereader’sowngutwill respondand theywill pay extra close attention.The flashof intuitionmustpayoffinsomewaytocompletethecircle.

GRATITUDE

DEFINITION:thankfulness;feelinggratefulorappreciative

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Eyesthataresoft,filledwithaninnerglowClaspinganother’shandorforearmTappingaloosefistagainsttheheartPlacingahandonthechestTearingupLayingahandonone’sheartthengesturingtoapersonorgroupPressingfingerstosmilinglipsRepeatingone’sthanksandappreciationHoldingontosomeone’shandforlongerthannecessaryHugging,showingaffectionAlightsqueezeduringahandshakeAsmilethathasagenuinebuildandlightsupthefaceSteadyeyecontactOpenpalmsMovingcloser,intoanother’spersonalspaceFormingasteeplewithhandsandpressingthemtolipsOfferingpraiseforothersAnemotion-richvoiceOfferingsmalltouchestoconnectLayingahandonsomeone’sbackorshoulderNodding,eyesglowingOfferingagift,favor,orboonofappreciationRaisingone’spalmstotheskyandlookingupComplimentingClappingvigorouslyBodyandfeetpointedforwardOfferingawaveAtwo-fingeredsaluteTippingtheheadbackforamomentandclosingtheeyesBowingorcurtseyingBlowingakissOfferingawaveofthanks

INTERNALSENSATIONS:TinglingwarmthinthelimbsAreleaseofallbodilytensionAfeelingofexpansioninthechestHeartthatfeels“full”AcomfortablewarmthinthefaceWeaknessintheknees

MENTALRESPONSES:Desiringtorepayanother’skindnessandsupportFeelingoverwhelmedinagoodwayWantingtodrinkinthemoment,torememberthisfeelingforever

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMGRATITUDE:WorshipFallingtoone’skneesAdesiretodoanythingtorepayJoyfultearsAfeelingofconnectionandloveMAYESCALATETO:SATISFACTION,PEACEFULNESS,HAPPINESS,ELATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDGRATITUDE:ClosingtheeyesDuckingtheheadtohideone’sexpressionAvoidingeyecontactwithothersQuick,dartingglancestoexpressahiddenthanksOfferingadistractionorchangingthesubject


WRITER’S TIP:Make it a goal to offer the reader something unexpected ineveryscene,beitanemotionalreaction,aroadblocktotripthecharacterup,orasnippetofdialoguethatshedsnewlightontheeventsunfolding.

GUILT

DEFINITION: a feeling of culpability over an offense (either real orimagined)

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Avertingorloweringone’sgazeTurningawayShiftingaboutChindippingtothechest,adoptingaslumpedpostureBlushingReactingdefensivelyShort-temperednessConsumingantacidsRepetitiveswallowingLyingSweatingGrimacingLipbitingAvoidingapersonorplaceTalkingtoomuchortoofastKeepingatadistanceRubbingthenoseorearsShouldersdrawingup,elbowstuckingintothesidesClosingorcurlingone’shandsinwardStuttering,growingflusteredJokingtolightenthemoodordistractothersfromthetruthSeekingcomfortbytouchingone’sownhair,neck,orclothingPinningthearmsagainstthestomachBecomingunnaturallyquietorstillAquiveringchinMutteringtearfullytooneselfAnxiousmovements(pawingahandthroughthehair,pacing)AcrackingvoicePullingatone’scollarTakingadeep,painedbreathandclosingtheeyesStaringdownatone’sfeet

Palmshidden(stuffedintopockets,heldbehindtheback)DartingglancesatthepersonwrongedFollowingtheonewronged,tryingtoconvinceoneselftoconfessInflictingpainononeselfasapenanceDestroyingone’sownpossessionsAninabilitytojoininfunactivitiesorbewithfriendsLookingpale,havingaharriedorhauntedlookNotshowingupforworkorschool,lettinggradesslip

INTERNALSENSATIONS:UpsetstomachTightchestPaininthebackofthethroatLossofappetiteThicknessinthethroat

MENTALRESPONSES:ReplayingwhathappenedAnxietyThoughtsfilledwithself-loathingWishingonecouldgobackandchangewhathappenedDesiringtoconfessorsharethepainorburdenwithanotherBrooding,retreatinginward,withdrawingfromothersParanoiathatothersknowandarepassingjudgmentAninabilitytoconcentrateonanythingelse

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMGUILT:Alackofinterestinone’sownappearanceorwellnessDrinkinguntilpassingout(toforget)InsomniaDepressionExhaustionNightmaresDruguseCrying,sobbing,hitchingbreathsFlightresponse—runningaway,unabletodealwiththeconsequencesGrowingreclusive,cuttingoneselfofffromothersSelf-mutilationSelf-loathing

AttemptingsuicideasawayoutMAYESCALATETO:CONFLICTED,REGRET,SHAME,REMORSE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDGUILT:BecomingexcessivelyresourcefulorhelpfultomakeupforearlierfailureFidgetingHidingone’smouthbehindahandChangingthesubjectDeflectingattentionThroatclearingVerballydenyinghavinganythingtodowiththeevent


WRITER’S TIP: Character bibles can help you keep track of hair, eye andclothingchoicesforeachcharacter,keepingthecontinuityfromthefirstpagetothelast.

HAPPINESS

DEFINITION:astateofwell-beingorjoyfulcontentment

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AnupturnedfaceSmilingHumming,whistling,singingArelaxedappearanceTellingjokes,laughingfrequentlyLaughlinesRaised,prominentcheekbones(fromsmiling)Eyesthatdance,sparkle,orshineAbubblyorlightvoiceRapidspeakingBuyinggiftsforothersorofferingtokensofkindnessStretchingoutthelegs,adoptingawide,openstanceGivingsomeonethethumbs-upSittingup,straightandalertFluidmovementsOfferingcomplimentsSwingingthearmswhilewalkingEnthusiasticwavingApolitemannerSteppinglightly,skippingInitiatingphysicalcontactwithothersInfusingone’sspeechwithpositivewordsShowingatalkativenatureandcourtesywithstrangersSpontaneityLightlyrappingone’sfingers(asiftointernalmusic)onalegorothersurfaceSwingingortappingone’sfoottoaneasybeatSatisfied,catlikestretchesExpressingenjoymentofthesenses(swayingtomusic,savoringfood)Noddingorleaningin,activelyshowinginterestBouncingonthetoesClaspinghandstothechestOfferingencouragementandsupport

Quickmovements,nohesitationAnoverallvisagethatglowsorradiatesHoldingthearmsoutwideasiftohugtheworldInitiatingrandomactsofkindness

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AfeelingofbreathlessnessHeatthatradiatesthroughthechestTinglinghandsLightnessinthelimbsAfeelingofweightlessness

MENTALRESPONSES:PositivethinkingDesiringtospreadjoyandmakeothersfeelgoodNoticingthesmallthings(smellingtheroses,sotospeak)HelpfulnessBeingateasewiththeworld,contentShowingpatienceAbrightoutlook(glasshalffull)AdesiretobewithlovedonesorfriendsFearlessnessBenignrisktakingforfun

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMHAPPINESS:JoyfultearsShakingwithexcitementBigmovements(leaping,fistpumping,running)Happyburstsofscreaming,shouting,laughter,squeals,gigglesShowsofaffectionSpinninginawildcircleDancingMAYESCALATETO:ELATION,GRATITUDE,SATISFACTION,PEACEFULNESS

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDHAPPINESS:PressingthelipstighttokeepfromsmilingDifficultystayingstillTakingdeep,calmingbreaths

BouncinglightlyinplaceAvertingthefaceFiddlingwiththingstokeephandsandfeetfromtwitchingCarefully-maskedfeatures,buteyesthatbetraythetrueemotionPuttingawayhappythoughtstosavorlaterIntenseconcentrationonsomethingorsomeoneelseHidingajoyousexpressionwithone’shairHoldingahandoverthemouthtocoverasmilePinchingoneselfandusingthepaintohelpcontaintheemotion


WRITER’STIP:Toincreasetensioninascene,thinkaboutwhatismotivatingyourcharacter,andwhichemotionscouldgetintheway.Introduceaneventthatcreatestheveryemotionsthecharacterwishestoavoid.

HATRED

DEFINITION:toloatheordetest;tofeelanimositytoward

PHYSICALSIGNALS:FiststhatshakeAnintense,feveredstareClenchedjaw,grindingteethRigidanddefinedforearmmusclesUtteringdark,hurtfulwordsmeanttoprovokeStiffposture,squareshoulders,alurchingwalkShoving,pushing,trippingBearingtheteethFingersretracting,turningclaw-likeShouting,screaming,swearingLungingatanenemySpittleflyingwhileyellingAredfaceandneckSweatingVisibleveinthrobAcordedneckWalkingoff,refusingtostayinanother’spresenceSwitchingshiftsoralteringascheduletoavoidanenemyTightnessintheface,skinstretchedintoasnarlAnanimalisticgrowlinthethroatFlaringnostrilsAgripthatunintentionallycrushesorbreaks(snappingapen,etc.)Atensebody,onthevergeofspringingBullying,cybertrollingAmouththatcurlswithdislike,sneeringSpittingatsomeoneorintheirdirectionReachingouttothrottle,hit,orcausepainShovingpeopleasidetoreachtheenemyAngrytearsCursing,swearingAscathingtoneAshakingvoice

UsingfriendstohelpostracizeorbringtheenemylowInitiatinghatefulgossip,settingtheenemyup,startingrumorsWrenchinganenemy’sarmtostopthemfromleavingActingonviolenturges(throwingachair,destroyingproperty)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Loudbreaths,aheavingchestPaininthejawfromclenchingorgrindingteethApoundingheartbeatHeadacheRisingbodytemperatureStrainorsorenessfromtensemusclesRoaringintheears

MENTALRESPONSES:AdarkmoodthatnoonecanreachthroughordispelRashdecisions,impairedjudgmentIrrationalthoughts,takingriskstogetevenAdesiretocarryoutavendetta(viavandalism,theft,etc.)Single-mindedfocusonhowtodestroyanotherHumiliationfantasiesfeaturingtheenemyActivelywishingforharmormisfortunetohappentoanother

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMHATRED:AninabilitytoenjoypositivethingsorhappinessDifficultyeatingandsleepingIsolationFixatingonanenemy,stalkingDerivingpleasurefromviolentfantasiesinvolvinganenemyCommittingcrimesagainsttheenemyAssaultormurderMAYESCALATETO:PARANOIA,RAGE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDHATRED:ClampingtheteethshuttocontainhardwordsTakingdeepbreathstocalmoneselfSeekingoutadistractionordiversionLeavingthesituationorpresenceofanenemySurroundingoneselfwithsupportivefriends


WRITER’STIP:Onewaytocreateemotionalintensityistohavethecharacterrememberthestakesonthecuspof takingaction.Worryover theoutcomecanaddasliceofdesperationtoanysceneandcreateacompellingemotionalpullforthereader.

HOPEFULNESS

DEFINITION:abright,promisingoutlook;optimism

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Holdingone’sbreathRaisingtheeyebrowsandofferingaquestioninggazeLeaninginClutchingatthechestorbellyMutteringpleaserepeatedlyunderthebreathClaspinghandsunderthechin(inaprayergesture)AfacethatseemstoshineGentlybitingthelipCoveringthemouthwithahand,eyeswideandshiningDeepbreathsWiggling,squirmingVerbalizingthepros,nottheconsStrongeyecontactSmilingStiffposture,anairofreadinessSmoothingone’sclothingtoappearcollectedorworthyNoddingalongasanotherspeaksHoldingstillinexpectationRapidswallowingandnoddingChattiness,babblingLipspartingslightlyAskingotherstoreaffirmthechancesofsuccessShiftingbackandforthMakingpromisestoconvinceothersofone’sworthinessOfferingcommitment,toshowone’sabilitytomeetexpectationsAttentivenesstotasksorpeopleconnectedwithone’sgoalRestlessnessLickingthelipwithcautioushopeExhalingwhiletheeyeslookupAgazethatdartstoasymbolofhope(afriendintheknow,atableofjudges)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:

AflutterinthebellyAlight-heartedfeelingTinglinglimbsAjoltthroughthebodyAfloatingsensation,likeallone’sburdenshavebeenremovedBreaththattemporarilybottlesupinthechest

MENTALRESPONSES:AwillingnesstobelievethateverythingwillbeallrightAstrongawarenessofone’ssurroundingsThinkingpositivethoughtsAsenseofcalmFocusingonimprovement(studying,workingextrahard)Refusingtoconsider,speakof,orlistentonegativesPreparingforthebestcasescenario

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMHOPEFULNESS:Handsclaspedinprayer,pressedtothelips,eyesclosedQuiveringbreathsShakinessTearsAtremblingvoiceWhimperingMAYESCALATETO:EAGERNESS,EXCITEMENT,DISAPPOINTMENT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDHOPEFULNESS:LockinghandstogethertoforcestillnessMentallyreducinghighexpectationsRemindingoneselfofobstaclesorcompetitionPressingthepalmsdownwardtostaveoffover-confidenceKeepingone’sfaceblankLookingdownoraway


WRITER’S TIP: Force your characters to make choices between bad andworse.Readerswillempathizewithyourcharacter,rememberingtheirownpastwhentheyfacedasimilardilemma.

HUMILIATION

DEFINITION:feelingdegradedormortified,worthlessorcheap

PHYSICALSIGNALS:BodycollapsinginonitselfAbowedheadShoulderscurlingoverchestAnglingtorsoawayfromothersUncontrollableshudderingorshiveringHairhanginginface,hidingtheeyesAdownwardgazeAflushedfaceHitchingchestEyesdull,lifelessPullingdownashirthem(coveringgesture)Bodyshielding(ifholdingontoanobject)HandsclutchingatstomachCoveringfacewithhandsBottomliporchintremblingWhimperingThroatbobbingArmsfallingtosides,lifelessUncontrolledtearsFlinchingatnoiseorfrombeingtouchedHuddling,crouchingTryingtocoverbodywithhandsNeckbendingforwardMovementisslow,jerkyKneeslockedtighttogetherAlossofcoordinationColdsweatStumbling,staggeringBackingupagainstawall,slidingintoacorner,hidingVisibletremorscoursingthroughthebodyHandsgrippingelbowsPigeontoes(tiltedinward)

SobstrappedinthroatDrawingkneesuptothebody’scoreWrappingarmsaroundselfRunnynose

INTERNALSENSATIONS:WeaknessinlegsSluggishheartbeatPaininchestRapidswallowingDizziness,asenseofvertigoRibssqueezingBodyfeelsbrokenSkintightens(crawls)LoosemusclesHoteyesandcheeksNausea

MENTALRESPONSES:Self-loathingShatteredthoughtsAfeelingofnakedness,ofbeingondisplayAneedtohideorfleethatsupersedesallelseWantingittoendatallcosts

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMHUMILIATION:CurlinguponthefloorHidingbehindsomething,againstsomethingCrying,blubbering,hitchingsobsWillingnesstoescapebyanymeansAdesiretodie,fortheemotionalpaintoendMAYESCALATETO:DEPRESSION,REGRET,SHAME,ANGER,HATRED

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDHUMILIATION:NumbnessinmindandbodyBecomingpassiveanddisengagedClosingoffallthoughtsofwhatishappeningNotspeakingormakinganysound

Sendingthemind“somewhereelse”Adisconnectbetweenthemindandbody


WRITER’STIP:Addconflictingemotionsforaricherexperience.Acharactermightfeelexcitementandprideatpurchasingtheirfirstcar,yetworrythattheymight be extending themselves too far financially. This inner conflict helps tohumanizeacharactertothereader.

HURT

DEFINITION:sufferinggrieformentalpain;feelingwoundedoraggrieved

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Eyeswidening,yetbrowsarefurrowedSwallowinghardLoweringthehead,theneckappearingtoshrinkAslow,disbelievingheadshakeAtremblingchinMouthfallingopenFlinching,startingColordrainingfromthefaceSayingHowcouldyou?asanaccusationHunchingoverasifchokingdownasobPressingafisttothelipsBitingdownonone’sbottomlipGrippingafistfulofshirtatthechestlevelHoldingahandup,wardingothersoffClutchingthestomachThebodycrumplinginonitselfAhitchingchestDroopingshouldersWeaknessinthekneesAnunevenstepDisplayingpoorbalanceandcoordinationAhandpressingagainstthethroatorbreastboneStuttering,chokingoutwordsLettingoutawhimperEyesthatwaterThemouthopening,butnowordsformingSendingsomeonealong,painedlookandthenbreakingeyecontactAhangingheadRetractingthearms,bringingthemclosetothetorsoStumblingbackastepBackingupSpinningaway

AgrimacethatlingersClutchingatoneself,elbowspressedtothesides

INTERNALSENSATIONS

DizzinessStomachhardening,nauseaApainfultightnessinone’sthroatConstrictinglungs,makingithardtobreatheHeartbeatseemingtosloworstopmomentarilyWeakeningmuscles,tremblinginthelimbsSpotsflashinginone’svision

MENTALRESPONSES:ThesensethattimehasstoppedThoughtsspinning,focusinginwardShock,disbeliefDredginguphistory,tryingtounderstandhowitledhereFeelingbrokeninside

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMHURT:AsenseofbetrayalthatrocksthemindtotheverycoreAcollapseinbodypostureTears,sobbingRunningawayReactingwithanger(screaming,slapping,hitting)MAYESCALATETO:DEPRESSION,ANGUISH,ANGER

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDHURT:VisibleswallowingUnnaturalstiffnessPinchingthelipstighttokeepthemfromtremblingTensingthebodytowardoffshakingLiftingthechinForcingoneselftomaintaineyecontact


WRITER’STIP:Anaturalwaytodescribeacharacter’sappearanceistoshowthem interactingwith their environment.A senseofmovementalsoallows thistypeofdescriptiontoflowwiththesceneasitprogresses.

IMPATIENCE

DEFINITION: feeling restless or short-tempered; having a desire forimmediatechange,relief,orgratificationPHYSICALSIGNALS:Raisingone’seyebrowsPlacinghandsonthehipsScowlingHeadtiltingback,gazelookingupCrossingthearmsStandingorsittingstifflyAtappingfootFoldingthehandsPursingone’slipsFiddlingwithcuffsorjewelryGlancingrepeatedlyattheclockPacingAhardjawline,ajuttingchinClickingone’sfingernailsagainstatableFidgetinginsteadofsittingorstandingstillNarrowingeyes,havinganintensefocusInterrupting,talkingoversomeoneelseCompressingthelipswhilesomeoneelsespeaksBeingunnervedbyannoyingtics(loudbreathing,penclicking)FrowningAsharptoneMassagingthetemples,asifwearyPinchingthebridgeofthenoseandsqueezingtheeyestightAttentionthatsnapstowardsoundormovementDoorwatchingComplainingunderthebreath:Whereishe?orThisistakingtoolong!HoldingaplateoffoodbutnoteatingitAclenchedjaw,grittedteethWhining,grumbling,orpouting(smallchildren)LettingoutaloudbreathMovingabout(sittingthenstanding,choosingadifferentchair)Toyingwithitems(turningacup,manglingapaperclip)Muttering,shakingthehead

TiltingtheheadtotheceilingandlettingoutaheavysighUncrossingandre-crossingthelegsTensionintheface,shouldersandneckUsingthebodytonudge,push,orblock(linejumpers)RepeatedlyrunningthehandsthroughthehairVeiledangerorlightsarcasm

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Breathingthatgrowsheavier,louderRisingbodytemperatureFeelingexhaustedorstrainedtothelimitsHeadaches

MENTALRESPONSES:Mentallyberatingatime-wasterWishingtimewouldspeedupRunningthroughhowtodosomethingfasterormoreefficientlyAttentionstrayingtootherthingsAssertingmentalrestrainttoavoidsnapping

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMIMPATIENCE:SlappingahandagainstthetableBarkingorders,yellingCuttingpeopleoffTakingoveraprojectordutyTellingthespeakertomoveonandgettothepointRedirectingthefocustoallowthingstoproceedbetterSettingatimelimitMakingdemandsResortingtothephysical(pushing,shoving)MAYESCALATETO:IRRITATION,FRUSTRATION,ANGER,SCORN

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDIMPATIENCE:AfrozensmileGoingforawalkUsingthetimetorunanerrandorcompleteataskAttemptingtodistractoneselfinanefforttobepatientRootinginapurseorpocketasadistractionCheckingandrecheckingaphoneformessages

Fussingwithappearance(brushingawaylint,checkingfingernails)


WRITER’STIP:Neverletthereadernoticethewriting.Overusingmetaphors,similes,descriptiveterms,andrepeatedbodylanguagecanpullthereaderoutofthestory.

INDIFFERENCE

DEFINITION:astateofapathy,casualness,ordisinterest

PHYSICALSIGNALS:ShouldersareloweredandlooseAslow,steadygaitArmshanginglimplyatthesidesShrugginghalf-heartedlyLongpausesbeforerespondingStaringblanklyoremotionlesslyLiftingahandloosely,palmupina“Whocares?”gesturePlacinghandsinone’spocketsLeaningbackorawayLookingsleepyorglazedSpeakinginaflatvoiceSmilingpolitely,notgenuinelyThebodysaggingwhileseated,lackingtensionAwanderinggazePickingatlint,scratchingatcuticles,etc.,toshowthatinterestislackingClosingone’seyestoshuteverythingoutTextingduringaneventorwhilesomeonespeaksNotbotheringtoanswersomeone’squestionsBeingnon-responsiveduringagroupdiscussionordebateIgnoringsomethingbeinghandedover(afile,businesscard,etc.)TurningawayAnonchalantattitudeSpeakingonlywhenspokentoNotrespondingtojokesorpersonalexchangesPointedlyignoringanotherpersonorsituationthatdrawsothersinRelaxedpostureAnunhurriedexitFocusing on one’s shoe, scuffing at the ground, etc., rather than giving dueattentionRespondingwithWhateverorSo?RandomlychangingthetopicMutedbodylanguage,lackingenergy

YawningMimickingboredom(slumpinginone’sseat,tappingapencil)Half-liddedeyesMutteringUh-huhorYeahwhenitseemsappropriateBeingeasilydistractedbyotherthings(TV,ahotgirlwalkingpast)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AlackofenergySlow,evenbreaths

MENTALRESPONSES:ZoningortuningothersouttoconcentrateonotherthingsWanderingthoughtsAlackofempathyThinkingaboutthetimeorfutureevents

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMINDIFFERENCE:Adisconnectwithone’slifeorsocietyAfadingsenseofempathyFallingintoaroutineMeaninglessinteractionwithothersFindinglittleday-to-dayjoyIgnoringthepainorsufferingofothersMAYESCALATETO:IRRITATION,ANNOYANCE,CONTEMPT,RESIGNATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDINDIFFERENCE:SmilingandpretendingtopayattentionAskingafewtokenquestionsMakinganexcusetoleave


WRITER’STIP:Tocreateafluid,emotionalarcinyourstory,makesureyourcharacter’sfeelingsbuildinintensityandcomplexityasthenovelprogresses.

INSECURITY

DEFINITION:feelingunsureofoneselfordisplayingalackofconfidence

PHYSICALSIGNALS:SmoothingdownclothingAself-deprecatinglaughBreakingeyecontactandshruggingHidingthehandsinthepocketsFidgetingCheckingone’sbreathThroatclearingVisibleblushingLickingorbitingthebottomlipPettingorstrokingone’sownhair(comfortgestures)Coveringup(pullingajackettighter,holdingone’selbows)HoldingthekneesandlegstightlytogetherAwkwardlymirroringthebehaviorofothersChoosinglooseclothingovertight,revealingonesAskingforreassurancefromothersBrushingoffcomplimentsorputtingoneselfdownLookingdownwhilewalkingStayingattheedgeofagroup,seekingthecornerofabusyroomTuckingthehandsbehindtheelbowsWristtwistingNotsmiling,orofferingasmilethatfadesquicklyVisibletensioninthemusclesRubbingone’sforearmsNeedingadviceorinstructiononwhattosayordoLaughingtooloudly,oratoddtimesClutchinganitemtothechest(book,binder,purse)TappingthelegtosettlenervesHidingbehindone’shairBitingnailsorpickingatloosethreadsonone’sclothingStayingatadistanceHoldingahandclosetothefacewhilespeakingDifficultyspeakingorofferingopinions

Rubbingatone’slipsWearingtoomuchmakeupRushedspeechIncreasedsweatoutputduringuncomfortablemoments

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AheartbeatthatraceswhenonefeelsconfrontedAroilingstomachUncontrollableflushesofheatAnuncomfortable,drythroat

MENTALRESPONSES:DifficultymakingdecisionsOver-thinkingproblemsorchoicesObsessingoverone’sownflawsandshortcomingsAlerttoothers,toseehowtheyreactandwhattheydoAgreeingonlytoavoidaconfrontationFixatingonthetalentsandstrengthsofothersComparingoneselftoothersandfindingoneselflacking

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMINSECURITY:Holdingontoacomfortitem(aspecialpieceofjewelry,apicture)AbentspineBlushingwhennoticedorspokentoAvoidingsocialsituationsActingskittisharoundpeoplePanicsymptomswhenputonthespotPreferringtodothingsaloneWearingplainclothingtoreinforceinvisibilityDifficultymakingfriendsChoosingaseatinthebackoftheroomorawayfromothersSeekinginteractiononlineratherthaninpersonMAYESCALATETO:UNEASE,WARINESS,WORRY,PARANOIA

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDINSECURITY:TossingthehairThrustingthechestoutStandingtaller,squaringone’sshouldersForcingoneselftomaintaineyecontact

DeflectingquestionsorconcernRushingintodecisionstoprovedecisivenessMimickingotherswhodisplayconfidenceRisktakingLyingInsertingoneselfintoconversations


WRITER’S TIP: Scenes do not happen in a vacuum. Don’t forget to includesetting,thoughtsorverbalcuesthatalludetothepassageoftime.

IRRITATION

DEFINITION:impatienceanddispleasure;thesenseofbeingbothered

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Thelipspressingtogether,pursing,orflatteningFacetighteningNarrowingeyes,squintingRubbingthebackoftheneckWatchingthesourcefurtivelyFrowningCrossingone’sarmsAglancethatreturnstothesourceofirritationPullingorpluckingatclothingasifthatisthesourceofdiscomfortFidgetymovements(scrapingthehairback,curlingone’sfingers)Turningone’sattentiontosomeoneelseAdoptingachallengingtone,arguingAhardsmilePokingatonguelightlyintothecheekandinhalingalongbreathAskingpointedquestionsChangingthesubjectForcingalaughRaisingthevoiceOpeningthemouthtosaysomething,thenthinkingbetterofitBitingtheinsideofthecheekRestlesslegs(crossinganduncrossing,unabletostandstill)Goingsilent,disengagingfromconversationFeigninginterestinotherthingstobuytimeandregaincontrolMakingsmall,jitterymovementswiththefingersBreathingthroughthenose(audiblytoothers)Curlingone’stoesClaspingthehandstightly,awhiteningoftheknucklesInterruptingRepeatingamannerism(scratchinganeyebrow,adjustingglasses)SpotsofcolorenteringthecheeksClenchingone’steeth

INTERNALSENSATIONS:TightnessinthechestTensemusclesSensitiveskinQuickenedpulseAtwitchyfeelingintheextremitiesRaisedbodytemperatureTightnessinthejawandfacialmuscles,causingdiscomfort

MENTALRESPONSES:DismissingthesourceasunworthyTryingtoputtheupsettinginformationoutofone’smindAdesiretotalkthesituationoverwithsomeoneelseWishingsomeonewouldstoporshutupStubbornlystickingtoone’sbeliefevenifitdoesn’tmakesenseCloudedjudgmentJudgingothersandtheirperformanceorcontribution

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMIRRITATION:Openlychallenginganother’slogicorstandpointSwearingNegativelanguage:Youdon’tknowwhatyou’retalkingabout!SarcasmName-callingFacialticsRisingbloodpressureMAYESCALATETO:FRUSTRATION,ANGER

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDIRRITATION:AvoidingthesourceTwo-facedbehaviorNitpickingPassive-aggressivecommentsForcingoneselftonotlookatoracknowledgethesourceLeavingtheroomorsituationtoclearthoughtsSeekingtodiscreditthesourcesoasnottohavetobelievehimorher


WRITER’S TIP: Make body language unique to the character. Do they liftthemselvesupintheirshoesastheywaitinline?Dotheyrunafingeralongtheseamlineoftheirjeanswhendeepinthought?Creativeemotionalmannerismshelpcharactersleapoffthepage.

JEALOUSY

DEFINITION: hostility toward a rival or one suspected of enjoying anadvantageNOTE: the advantage can be a person, an object, or an intangible (love,success,etc.)PHYSICALSIGNALS:AdoptingasullenlookMakingaslightgrowlornoiseinthethroatBitternessatwatchinghowothersrespondtotherivalQuick,sharpmovements(swipingtearsfromcheeks,shovinghairoutofeyes)PursingorpressinglipsflatCrossingarmsinfrontofchestClenchingteethMutteringunkindthingsunderbreathStartingrumors,actingcattyPickingonsomeoneweakerforasenseofpowerandcontrolSneeringUglylaughterShoutinginsults,name-callingTakingastepcloser,fistsclenchedAvisibleflushincheeksApinchedexpressionTightmusclesBodymimickingthatoftherivalTryingto“one-up”IssuingachallengetotherivalthatcontainsanelementofriskCriticismSpittinginthedirectionoftherivalSwearingKickingatnearbyobjectsShowingoffPullingstuntsorprankstoregainattentionRudeness,sayingsomethingthatisa“lowblow”RecklessbehaviorGloatingwhentherivalfaltersorshowsweakness

INTERNALSENSATIONS:

BurningsensationinthechestorstomachStomachhardeningBreathscomingcoarser,fasterSpotsorflashesinvisionPaininjawfromclenchingteeth

MENTALRESPONSES:Adesiretoventandvoicetherival’sunworthinesstoothersRashdecision-making(quittingateam,stormingoutofaparty)AflashofangerwhentherivalismentionedAdesiretodiscredit,ortakeawaytherival’spowerWishingharmAdesireforrevengeTurmoilathavingnegativefeelingsFocusingsolelyontherival’snegativeattributesComparingoneselftotherivalintheeyesofpeersRejectingtheadvantage(choosingtopursueanothergirlinstead)

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMJEALOUSY:Jeering,runningsomeonedown,bullyingPickingfightsUnhealthyobsessionwiththerivalIndulginginpettycrime(keyingtherival’scar,etc.)Engaginginself-mutilationasareleaseNegativityspillingintootherpartsofone’slifeSelf-doubt,alackofconfidenceArelationshipcategorizedbynegativity,passive-aggression,andcriticismFeelingfakefromwearingtwofacesforsolongDishonestywithselfandothersApatternofsubversivelytryingtounderminetherivalintheeyesofothersMAYESCALATETO:ENVY,DETERMINATION,ANGER,HATRED

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDJEALOUSY:Actingnormaltotherival’sfacebuttalkingnegativelybehindtheirbackWatchingtherivalfurtively,privatelyStrivingtoalsoexcelatwhateverisdesiredGroupingwithotherswhoalsolackwhateverisdesiredKissinguptogainapprovalthroughassociationTryingnottofocusontherival

Tellingoneselfthatitdoesn’tmatterAttemptingtothinkpositivethoughtsabouttherival


WRITER’STIP: Ineachscene, thinkabout the lighting.Full sunlight,muddycloudswashingeverything ingrey, theonsetof sunsetorevendarkness…lightandshadowcanaffectacharacter’smood,amptheirstresslevelorevenworkagainsttheirgoals.

LONELINESS

DEFINITION:thefeelingofbeingisolatedorcutoff

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AlonginggazeDisinterestinone’sappearance(blandclothing,lacklusterhair)Slumpedshoulders,limppostureAmonotonevoiceLookingdownwhenwalkinginpublicWatchingpeoplefurtivelyAnexpressionless,unsmilingfaceSullennessBeinggeneroustoothersinordertocurryfavorSpyingoreavesdroppingonotherstofeelapartofsomethingFillingschedulewithworkorvolunteeringtoavoiddowntimeUsingbooks,theinternet,andTVtoescapeAnexpressionthatcrumplesatotherpeoples’affectiondisplaysHuggingoneselfAlackofeyecontactFalsebravadoTears,sadnessAheavysighTalkingtooneselfFeelingasenseofcomfortfromafullmailbox(evenjunkmail)Strokingself(rubbinganarmabsentlyforcontact)UsingbrightoreccentricclothingchoicesinanattempttogetattentionDotingonsomeoneorsomething(aneighbor,apet)TalkingtostrangerstofeelconnectedRelishingopportunitiestotalkorengage(maildeliveries,etc.)RamblingwhenconversingwithothersAdheringtoaroutine(eatingthesamemeals,visitingthesamepark)Livingvicariouslythroughanalteregooravatar(socialnetworking,gaming)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Athicknessinthethroat,signalingtheonsetoftearsAlongingsointenseitmanifestsitselfasanacheorpain

InsomniaFatigue

MENTALRESPONSES:Avoidingcrowds,largeevents,orsocialsituationsAdesiretobeincluded,wantedAnger,bitternessDaydreamingaboutpeopleonewouldliketohaverelationshipswithAfeelingofunworthiness

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMLONELINESS:Doubtingoneself,alackofconfidenceWeightgainBelievingthatoneisuglyorunworthyUncontrollablecryingboutsDespairingofeverbeingabletochangeHighbloodpressureWorkaholictendenciesBingeingtocompensate(eating,drinking,shopping,gambling)HoardingpetsSuicidalthoughtsMAYESCALATETO:SADNESS,HURT,DEPRESSION,RESIGNATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDLONELINESS:CommittingtooquicklytoanyonewhoshowsinterestChoosingnegativerelationshipsoverbeingaloneBeingtoofriendlyandcomingacrossasdesperateFrequentlycallingfamilyorfriendsSolitary activities that show a craving for contact (people watching from theporch)


WRITER’S TIP: Body movements should never be random. Everything acharacterdoesshouldhaveaspecificintent:toachieveanend,revealemotion,ortocharacterize.

LOVE

DEFINITION:deepaffection,attachment,ordevotionforanother

PHYSICALSIGNALS:MovingtogetcloserortouchSmilingatnothingAbeamingexpression,glowingcheeksStrongeyecontact,verylittleblinkingFocusingontheother’sbestattributesTakinglarge,deep,savoringbreathsAyearninglookLickingone’slipsUnconsciouslypartingthelipsAlight,bouncingstepThroatclearing,swallowingAsillygrin,laughingLeaningagainstoneanotherLyingintheother’slapUsingpetnamesortermsofendearmentMooningoverphotosorrepresentationsofaloveinterestListeningtoandconnectingwithlovesongsAdoptingasillylove-strucktonewhencommunicatingNervousbehaviors(fiddlingwiththehands,moisteningone’slips)FlirtatioustalkornonstoptalkingTorsoandfeetpointingtowardthelovedonePlayfulshovingandgrabbingSharingsecretsanddesiresAffectionatetouches(armstroking,holdinghands,kissing,hugging)SittingtogethersothelegstouchPuttinganarmaroundsomeone’sshouldersRealigninghobbiesorintereststomatchtheother’sHookingahandintheotherperson’sbeltorpocketIgnoringorneglectingotherfriendstobewiththesignificantotherWritingnotesorpoetrytotheotherpersonOfferinggiftsoftime,value,orthoughtfulnessTalkingtofriendsaboutthespecialperson,askingforadvice

ObsessivelycheckingthephonetoseeiftheloveinteresthascalledConstanttextingbackandforthDoodlingheartsandnamesDietingorworkingoutinanefforttoimproveone’sappearanceWatchingromanticmoviesSayingIloveyou

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Aflutteringinthestomach,afeelingofemptinessAracingpulseTheheartbeating,banging,orhammeringAhyper-awarenessofthebodyWeakkneesorlegsAtinglingorelectricaljoltataccidentaltouchesGettingtongue-tangled

MENTALRESPONSES:Euphoria,pleasureattouchingandclosenessAppreciatingtheworldandeverythinginitLosingtrackoftimewhenwiththeotherpersonMentalfuzziness,distractionDaydreamingLosingawarenessofsurroundingswhenloveinterestispresentSeekingwaystomakealovedoneproudWorryingwhentoomuchtimehaspassedwithoutcontactAfeelingofpossessiveness,jealousyFeeingsafeandwholewhentogether

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMLOVE:Exchangingpersonaleffects(clothing,jewelry,keys)Embracingtheloveinterest’sfriendsasone’sownSharingfinancesandpossessionsEnduringhardshiptobewiththeloveinterestormakethemhappyPuttingtheother’sneedsanddesiresfirstIntimacySharinghopesanddreams,becomingemotionallyvulnerableFutureplanningthatcentersaroundtheloveinterestLivingtogether,acommittedrelationship,marriageMAYESCALATETO:PEACEFULNESS,SATISFACTION,DESIRE,

ADORATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDLOVE:FlushedskinAhigh-pitchedvoiceNervouslaughterorgigglingStandingcloseyetnottouchingDartingglancesWatchingfromasafedistanceAnincreasedinterestintheotherperson’spersonallifeForciblydeclaringthatnothing’sgoingon:We’rejustfriendsAnoverallbrighteningwhentheotherpersonenterstheroom


WRITER’S TIP: Sentence structure is especially important when describing.Varied sentence length keeps the pace moving and livens up sensory detail,avoidinga“dryreport”feel.

NERVOUSNESS

DEFINITION:thestateoffeelingunsettledandbeingeasilyagitated

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Short,jerkymovementsPacingRapidblinkingRubbingthebackoftheneckUnbuttoningthetopbuttonofashirtScratchingorrubbingskinBitingatlipsJumpinessFlightyhandmovements,fidgetingClumsinessRubbinghandsdownone’spantlegsAlackofeyecontactScrapingahandthroughthehairQuickbreathsCrossinganduncrossingarmsorlegsEyeingtheexitsBouncingaknee(whilesitting)Repeatedgestures(tiestraightening,touchinganear)Increasedsweat,particularlyonthehandsTinglingfingersandtoesPupilsappeardilatedBitingorpickingatone’sfingernailsShakingoutthehandsClearingthethroatFacialticsStuttering,stumblingoverone’swordsQuick,high-pitchedlaughterRestlessness(sitting,thenstanding)LaughterthatgoesonforlongerthannormalClosingtheeyesandtakingacalmingbreathRapidspeaking,babblingAchangeinthepitch,tone,orvolumeofthevoice

Tacklingatasktodistract(cleaning,waxingthecar)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AcutesensesNauseaSensitiveskinFaintnessAnemptyfeelinginthepitofthestomachQuivering,twitchymusclesArollingorflutteryfeeling(butterflies)inthestomachLossofappetiteDrymouthHeartpalpitationsHeadache

MENTALRESPONSES:ThedesiretofleeErraticthoughtprocesses,irrationalfearsOverreactingtonoiseThemindgoingtotheworst-casescenarioWishingtimewouldspeedup

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMNERVOUSNESS:VomitingFatigueorinsomniaPanicattacksWithdrawalIrritabilityUlcersandotherdigestivedisordersWeightlossorgainNegativethoughtpatternsIndulginginalcohol,drugs,orchainsmokingtotaketheedgeoffMAYESCALATETO:INSECURITY,ANXIETY,FEAR,DREAD

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDNERVOUSNESS:Apasted-onsmileFlexingthefingers,curlinganduncurlingClaspingone’shandstogetherAnunnaturalstillness

Eyesthatblinktoomuchordon’tblinkenoughNotmeetinganyone’sgazeChangingthetopicAvoidingconversation


WRITER’STIP:Bodymovementandexternalreactionsalonewillnotcreateanemotionalexperiencefor thereader.Pairingactionwitha lightuseof internalsensationsand/orthoughtscreatesadeeperemotionalpull.

NOSTALGIA

DEFINITION:theyearningforareturntoapastperiodorsituation

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AnunfocusedgazeAslightsmileSlowlyflippingthrougholdpictures,strokingthepagesArelaxedpostureEyesthatfillwithtearsUsingaquietvoiceCockingone’sheadtothesideSubduedlaughterAshallowsighAnunhurriedwalkRubbingahandagainsttheheartSlouchingonasofa,watchingoldmoviesSlow,languidmovementsGrowinganimatedwhenmemoryistriggered(anoldsongplayingontheradio,etc.)EyesbrighteningasmemoriesarerecalledKeepingmementosfromthehappytimeTellingandretellingstoriesaboutthepastSeekingoutthosewhosharedtheeventGentlytouchingmemorableitems(ababyblanket,weddinginvitations)Closingone’seyestomoreclearlyrecallthememoriesTryingtorecreateapastevent(burningthesamescentedcandle,wearingtheoldclothes)Seeingsimilaritiesinthepresent:YoulookjustlikehimorThisisthesamecolorasourfirstcar Increased tenderness (sittingclose,aquickkiss) for thosewhosharedintheevent

INTERNALSENSATIONS:EyespricklingwithtearsAnexcitedflutterinthebellyAnoverallrelaxationofthebodyBreathingslowsasamemorytakesover

Dulledawareness(sittinginanuncomfortablepositionwithoutfeelingit)Experiencing (to a lesser degree) the same physical sensations felt during thepastevent

MENTALRESPONSES:LosingtrackofthetimewhilerememberingAdesiretogobackandvisitthepastMentallyreplayingpasteventsSatisfaction at having experienced the event despite any pain or loss resultingfromit

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMNOSTALGIA:DiscontentmentwiththewaythingspresentlyareExpressingmoreemotionaboutthepastthanthepresentSpendinglargeperiodsoftimeinthepastHoardingtendenciesNeglectingcurrentdutiesorrelationshipsAninabilitytomoveonDepressionMAYESCALATETO:SADNESS,DEPRESSION,HAPPINESS

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDNOSTALGIA:AnausterelackofmementosfromthepastSniffingbacktearsRejecting opportunities to revisit the past (reunions, trips to the old house orhometown)NotengaginginconversationsaboutthepastMaskingnostalgiawithpracticality:IkepthistoyssohecouldgivethemtohiskidsReturntotheTableofContents

WRITER’S TIP: When introducing and describing characters, parcel outpersonal details in small bits. Anything that isn’t pivotal to plot orcharacterizationcanbelefttothereader’simagination.

OVERWHELMED

DEFINITION:tobeoverpoweredorovercomebyfeelingsorcircumstances

PHYSICALSIGNALS:BringingashakyhandtotheforeheadHoldingapalmuptostopsomeonefromdumpingonmoreworryWavingpeopleawayShouldersthatdroporcurlAchestthatcavesinClutchingatone’sarmsorstomachTouchingatemplewhileclosingtheeyesAvoicechokedwithtearsAchestthathitchesAquakingvoicePoorbalanceMumbling,mutteringLettingoutanuncontrollablecry,sob,orwhimperUncertain(almostdrunken)stepsSaggingintoachair,leaningagainstadoorframeorwallPullingthekneesuptothechest,circlingone’skneeswiththearmsFallingagainstanotherpersonShakingalloverTearyeyesDifficultyformingresponsesHolingupinacorner,placingone’sbackagainstthewallDroppingorspillingthingsShakingtheheadrepeatedlyAglassystare,aglazedlookStaringdownatone’semptypalmsCrumplingtothefloorPuttingone’shandsoverone’searsRockingbackandforthClosingtheeyesInappropriateresponses(laughing,screaming)LeaningoverwiththehandsonthekneesHyperventilating

Looseningbelts,collars,andotherconfiningclothingTouchingone’sfingertipstoone’slips

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Weaknessinthelegs,asuddenneedtositdownAwaveofheatorcoldLightheadednessDifficultybreathingAninabilitytoeatNoisesensitivityRingingearsTunnelvision

MENTALRESPONSES:MentalnumbnessRetreatinginwardBecomingnon-responsivetoothers,almostcatatonicWishingforcomfortThedesiretobealoneAninabilitytofocusIndecisiveness

CUESOFBEINGOVERWHELMEDLONGTERM:FlightSnappingunderpressure(screaming,yelling,hittingothers)FaintingorswooningWeepingHysteriaHeadachesHypertensionMusclefatigueandsorenessSeekingcomfortinunhealthywaysHeartattackorstrokeChronicfatigue,insomniaDecayingphysicalhealth,hospitalizationMAYESCALATETO:ANXIETY,DEPRESSION

SUPPRESSEDCUESOFBEINGOVERWHELMED:Verbaldenial:I’mfine,really

FalsesmilesandconfidenceAgreeabilityorfalseenthusiasmMaskingweaknesswithexcuses:Sorry,IstooduptoofastFeigningaheadacheorothermaladyratherthanadmitone’slimits


WRITER’S TIP: When delivering emotional description, it’s easy to rely toomuch on facial expressions. Instead, look down and describe what the arms,hands,legs,andfeetaredoing.

PARANOIA

DEFINITION:excessiveorillogicalsuspicionand/ordistrustofothers

PHYSICALSIGNALS:StartlingeasilyClenchingthejawDartingeyemovementsExcessivesafetyprecautions(extralocks,guarddogs,videosurveillance)Fidgetyhandsthatwon’tsettleWideeyesRestlesssleep,tossingandturningInsomniaBackingawaywithraisedhandsFlinchingEyesthatdon’tseemtoblinkoftenenoughCrossingthearmstightlyoverthechestMutteringunderone’sbreath,talkingtooneselfScratchingcompulsivelySweatingBloodshoteyesScoutingforexitswhenenteringaroomAheightenedneedforpersonaldistanceDependencyoncaffeinatedbeveragesordrugstostayalertPallidskinfromlackofsunlightArumpledappearanceAccusinginnocentpeopleofplanningorcarryingoutmischiefFacialtics,musclesthatjumpAquick,erraticpaceAlwayslookingovertheshoulderoraroundthenextcornerWeightlossPluckingatclothingasifitchafesAligningwithfringegroupsandconspiracytheoristsEspousingfar-outbeliefsandopinionsBecomingeasilyoffendedJumpingtothedefensiveVerballyattackinganyperceivedopponents

SpoutinginaneorirrationalargumentsCitingunreliablesourcesStubbornlyadheringtoone’sbeliefsnomatterhowoutlandishPerfectionisttendenciesCompulsivebehaviorsRefusingfoodordrinkspreparedbyothers

INTERNALSENSATIONS:HeightenedsensesFatigueMusclesthatarealwaystense,readytofightorrunSensitivitytotouchandsoundAracingheartbeatRawnervesandskinHighadrenalinelevel,jumpiness

MENTALRESPONSES:SeeingdangersymbolsineverythingJudgingtooquicklyAheightenedsenseofself-importanceIrrationalresponses,jumpingtoillogicalconclusionsMentalfatiguefromnotgettingenoughsleepSeeingandhearingthingsthataren’tthereAninabilitytoconnectwithothersduetoalackoftrustAlwaysseeingtheworst-casescenarioNegativethoughtpatternsFeelingwatchedorfollowedThebeliefthateveryoneelseisdeludedAdheringtosuperstitiousbeliefstostaysafe

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMPARANOIA:ContactingtheauthoritiesforhelpagainstsuspectedassailantsAninabilitytomaintainlong-termrelationshipsIsolationLivingoffthegridThebeliefthatoneisnolongerrequiredtolivebythelawsofsocietyAcompletebreakwithrealityRageHallucinations

Anxietyattacks,phobias,psychosisMAYESCALATETO:FEAR,ANGER,RAGE,HATRED,DESPERATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDPARANOIA:AvoidanceofsocialsituationsAttemptingtoengagesocially,butwithwaryanddartingeyesAgreeingwitheverythinginanattempttoseem“partofthegroup”WatchingothersandmimickingthemasawayofappearingnormalAsmilethatisfrozen,manicAhighvoiceoroddlaughUsingmedicineorseekingtherapy


WRITER’S TIP: In dialogue, it’s not always what a character says that’simportant,it’showtheysayit.(Andsometimesit’swhattheyaretryinghardnottosay!)

PEACEFULNESS

DEFINITION: a state of calm that is devoid of strife, agitation, orcommotion

PHYSICALSIGNALS:ArelaxedpostureSmiling,grinningFingerslooselyclaspedinone’slapClosedeyes,theheadtippedbackSoftenedfeaturesthatimplycalmNoddingtoothersingreetingLeaningback,anarmhookedoverthebackofachairTakingadeep,satisfiedbreathUsingafriend’sshoulderasashelfforyourelbowAnunforcedlaughWhistlingorhummingSparklingeyes,aweightlessgazeEnjoyinganevent(amovie,aconcertinthepark,apicnic)LyingonthegrasstosoakupthesunCatlikestretchesAwarmvoice,caringtoneHalf-closedeyes,aliddedlookofsatisfactionLacingfingersbehindtheheadAwidestance,opendemeanorLanguidmovementsRollingtheneckbackandforthLoopingthethumbsinthefrontpocketswhilestandingAneasywalk,unhurriedAwanderinggaze,takinginrandomthingsAsatisfiedsighUnhurriedspeechContentedlytakingmoretimetocompletetasksExpressingagreaterinterestinthehappinessofothersEngaginginmeaningfulconversations

INTERNALSENSATIONS:

SlowandeasybreathsSlackmusclesLooselimbsDrowsinessAlackoftensionandstressthatalmostequatestoafeelingofnothingnessAsteady,calmpulseandheartbeat

MENTALRESPONSES:BeingwithotherswithnoneedtofillthesilenceSatisfactionwiththeworldatlargeAfeelingofconnectiontolifeHavingnodesiretobeanywhereelseEnjoyinglisteningtoothersLivinginthemoment,notacknowledgingthepastorfutureAvoidingtopicsofconversationthatwillkillthemoodDelightinginevenmundane,everydaytasksAdesireforeveryonetoexperiencesuchpeace

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMPEACEFULNESS:AlessenedneedforworldlygoodsChoosingtospendtimewithpositiveorlike-mindedpeopleAgrowinginterestinspiritualorreligiousphilosophyAdesiretomaintainapositivestatusquoChangingone’slifestyletoaccommodatenewbeliefs(recycling,movingtothecountry)ImpatiencewithcorporategreedandcapitalismAdesireformorenaturallivingAnincreasedawarenessofone’sbodyandwhatgoesintoitEngaginginnewandsatisfyinghobbiesandinterestsMAYESCALATETO:HAPPINESS,SATISFACTION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDPEACEFULNESS:Claimingthatone’scalmdemeanorissimplytirednessForcingoneselftomaintainaslightstiffnessinposturePretendingtodisengagebecauseofboredom


WRITER’S TIP: Choose verbs carefully. The meaning of a sentence can be

alteredthroughthewordsusedtodescribeaction.Readerswillseeacharacterwho trudgesup thestairsasbeing inadifferentemotionalstate thanone thatboundsupthem,twoatatime.

PRIDE

DEFINITION: proper self-respect arising from a significant achievement,possession of an item, or involvement in a relationship PHYSICALSIGNALS:AhighchinShouldersbackChestthrustoutStandingtallwithgoodposture,legsspreadwideAgleaminone’seyeAknowinggrinPerfectionismWatchingotherstoseetheirreactionsVerbalizingtheupsanddownsthatledtothispointCallingfriendsandlovedonestotellthemaboutanaccomplishmentDirectorintenseeyecontactAboominglaughBecomingtalkativeLiftingtheheelsandrisingupslightlytoemphasizewordsSteeringordominatingtheconversationBecomingextraanimatedwhenthere’sanaudienceAgrinthatconveyssecretknowledgeThrustingoneselfintothemiddleofaneventordebateAsatisfiedsmileHookingthumbsintoone’sbeltloops,thrustingthepelvisforwardPullinginadeepbreathFalsemodestyIgnoringoroverlookinganyflawsassociatedwiththeprideitemApreoccupationwithone’sappearanceStandingwithhandstuckedinone’sarmpits,thumbsvisibleandpointingupRunningthehandsthroughthehair,flippinghairbackAssumingaposethat’ssexyordrawsattentiontoone’sbestattributesAppearingunaffectedbywhatothersthinkSpeakingfirst,thinkingsecond

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Thefeelingofbeingtaller,bigger,stronger

Lungsexpandedtotheirfullestthroughdeep,satisfiedbreaths

MENTALRESPONSES:PositiveselfthoughtsPreoccupationwithone’sachievementsorsuccessesAfeelingofbeingabletoconquertheworldWantingtobesurroundedbysupportivelovedonesAdesiretoshareachievementswithothersAtendencytojudgepeopleaccordingtoone’spersonalmeasuringstickOver-estimatingone’scapabilitiesUnderestimatingothersAsenseofentitlementPlanningandseekingadvantages

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMPRIDE:EnjoymentatprovingotherswrongBragging,obsessivelytalkingaboutanachievementormaterialobjectPraising group accomplishments as a way to remind people of one’s owninvolvementReactingwithangerorjealousyifone’sreputationisimpugnedMakingradicalstatementsorpromisesaboutfuturegoalsRevisitingthesourceorplaceofaccomplishmenttofeelempoweredMAYESCALATETO:SMUGNESS,CONTEMPT,CONFIDENCE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDPRIDE:WavingoffacomplimentPassingthecredittosomeoneelseTurningattentionawayfromoneselfSeekingothers’opinionsasaformofvalidation


WRITER’S TIP: Understand your character’s emotional range. For onecharacter, intense situations may make them hyperventilate. For another, itmight cause them to shift slightly while seated. Knowing how expressive acharacter is will help you find the perfect body cue to convey an emotionalmeaning.

RAGE

DEFINITION:violentanduncontrolledanger

PHYSICALSIGNALS:FlushedormottledskinShakingextremitiesHandsthatclenchandunclenchWideeyes,showingthewhitesSpittlebuildingupinthecornersofthemouthBitingcriticismandbelittlementJabbingafingerinsomeone’sfaceAcordedneckNostrilsflaringLipspullingback,baringtheteethCrackingtheneckfromsidetosideforintimidationMusclesandveinsstrainingagainstskinAgutturalroarPlantingthefeetwideapartSuddenexplosionsoverseeminglylittlethingsPushingandshovingLimberingupshouldersandneckasifreadyingtofightSqueezingsomeone’sarmtothepointofbruisingUsinginsultstopickafightCrackingone’sknucklestointimidatePullingoutaweapon(knife)Findingsomethingclosetohandtouseasaweapon(branch,rock)MovingslowlyanddeliberatelytowardanotherpersontointimidateBarrelingtowardsomeone,utteringascreamorwarcryFightingwithnothoughtforone’sownsafetyThrowingorkickingthingsJumpingtoextremeangerwithlittleprovocationScreamingThreateningviolenceStaringsomeonedowntofrightenthemGettingintosomeone’spersonalspaceManipulation

INTERNALSENSATIONS:ApoundingintheearsIncreasedbloodflowtotheextremitiesElevatedpulseCloudedvisionAdrythroatfromrushedbreathingPainthatissuspendeduntillaterAdrenalinerushingthroughthebodyAsensationofincreasedstrengthAnedgy,twitchyfeelingTunnelvision

MENTALRESPONSES:BeingdrivenbythebeliefthatonehasbeenmistreatedordonewrongAdesireforvengeanceLookingforafightWantingtohurtsomeone,toseebloodAsenseofreleasewhenviolenceisexpressedNotthinkingorcaringaboutconsequencesAneedtodominateorcontrolDifficultyfocusingorconcentrating

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMRAGE:BeatingsomeonesenselessCommittingassaultormurderSeekingoutopportunitiestoreactviolentlySelf-destructiveaddictionsDepressionHeartdisease,strokeUlcersAninabilitytocopewithsmallerproblemsovertimeInsomniaFatigueDestroyingpropertyMAYESCALATETO:PARANOIA,REGRET

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDRAGE:UnnaturalsilenceUncontrollablebodytremors

PunchingawallorobjectinsteadofapersonClenched,grindingteethPaininthejawfromclenchedteethAtightsmilethatdoesn’treachtheeyesGrabbingontosomethingsecure(likeasteeringwheel)andshakingitviolentlyPunchingorrippingapartsomethingsoftAggressiveworkouts


WRITER’STIP:Asyourcharacterreactsemotionallytocircumstanceswithinthe environment, don’t underestimate the importance of sensory details. Dotexturesbotherthembecauseofaheightenedstate?Whatsoundsdotheypickuponthattheymightnototherwisenotice?

REGRET

DEFINITION: sorrow aroused by circumstances beyond one’s ability tocontrolorrepairPHYSICALSIGNALS:ScrubbingahandoverthefaceLayingahandagainstthebreastboneAheavysighAdownturnedmouthBentpostureHeavyarms,theshoulderspulledlowApologizingTryingtoreasonorexplainEyebrowsgatheringinApainedexpressionHandsfallingtothesidesStaringdownatone’sfeetCoveringthefacewiththehandsSqueezingone’seyesshutLiftinghandsupandthenlettingthemfallPinchingthebridgeofthenose,eyesclosedWincingorgrimacingRubbingthechestasifpainedAvoidingthevictims(shame)Seekingreconciliation(determinationtosetright)BeratingoneselfforactionsorchoicesLosingthethreadofconversationsHidingbehindone’shairShakingtheheadAvoicethatlosesitspowerUsingbrokensentencesortrailingoffwhilespeakingMaking a tsking noise or murmuring regret:What a shame Asking questionsaboutthefallout:Howdidshetakethenews?ScramblingtoreversewhatwassaidordoneIncreasingone’sdistancefromothersTryingtofadeintothebackgroundatsocialeventsPuttingoneselfdown

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AknottedbellyInsomniaAninabilitytofilllungscompletelyAnervousstomachLossofappetiteDullnessinthechest,afeelingofheaviness

MENTALRESPONSES:Self-loathingThefeelingthatonedeservespainorjudgmentObsessionwiththepersonoreventassociatedwiththeregretRelivingpasteventsThoughtsthatturninwardTryingtoforgettheeventAdesiretogounnoticedDistractednessWishingithadn’thappened

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMREGRET:NottakingphysicalcareofoneselfWeightlossWithdrawingfromsocietyDroppingoutofclubsandgroupsNolongerfindingjoyinhobbiesorfavoritepastimesOvercompensationinotherrelationshipsCrying,sobbingSelf-destructivebehaviorsDrugandalcoholabuseUnsafesexualpracticesAbusiverelationshipsAstringofbrokenrelationshipsUlcersAlackofintimacywithothersAninabilitytoforgiveoneselfMAYESCALATETO:SHAME,FRUSTRATION,DEPRESSION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDREGRET:Desperatelyseekingoutnewrelationships

Talkingaboutone’saccomplishmentsasawayofwinningpeopleoverMaking life-altering decisions (career change, amove, etc.) as a way to startoverActinglikethelifeofthepartyPuttingonahappyface


WRITER’STIP:Watchforpossibledescriptioncrutches.Isthecolor“green”used too much? Does a sensory sound (like wind rustling through the trees)happeninmultiplescenes?Keeptrackofthesedetailstoavoidoveruse.

RELIEF

DEFINITION:thealleviationorlighteningofoppressivestressors

PHYSICALSIGNALS:CoveringthemouthwithahandShakingheadandclosingtheeyesGaspingTremblinghandsReachingouttoanotherforcomfortSlumpingpostureAslowsmileUsinghumortolightenthemomentShakylaughterSaggingagainstawallorpersonPressingthepalmstotheeyesAskingforthegoodnewstoberepeatedWobblylegsBucklingkneesStumblingbackastepFloppingbackinachairAgapingmouthStrugglingtospeak,tofindtherightwordsAnunsteadywalkCryingorcallingoutinreleaseAskingredundantquestionstoassurethatthemomentisrealEyesgoingup,lookingheavenwardLettingoutahugebreathRockingbackandforthEyesshining,lockedonthesourceofreliefAslightmoanLipspartingShowingkinshipwithothersinvolved(hugging,reachingfortheirhands)Pressingone’shandstothestomachApalmpressedtotheheartAbowedheadStartingtofallthencatchingoneself

Closedeyes,compulsivenoddingLettingtheheadfallbackUtteringasoftcurseorthankingGodMakingthesignofthecross(ifreligious)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:DrymouthWeakmusclesAnunexpectedreleaseofalltensionTearswellingupbehindeyelidsAsuddenlightnessorgiddiness

MENTALRESPONSES:WantingtobeheldAdesiretobestillandletthereliefsinkinGratitudeJumbledthoughtsAninabilitytoformulateanappropriateverbalresponsePostponementofresiduallossorpainuntilalatertime

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMRELIEF:Breakingdown,tearsExuberant responses (jumping up and down, shouting, running, hystericalcrying)CollapsingAnexpandingfeelinginthechestLightheadednessAthickthroatMAYESCALATETO:HAPPINESS,EXCITEMENT,GRATITUDE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDRELIEF:AdeliberatelyquietexhaleBrieflyclosingtheeyesDrawingadeepbreaththroughthenoseBitingthelipstokeepfromsmilingSwallowingandnoddingNarrowedeyes,whenit’snecessarytofocusonsomethingbesidesthesourceofreliefNotthinkingaboutit,puttingitofftosavorlater

Inattentiveness


WRITER’STIP:When a character is hiding an emotion, the cues are not asnoticeable. In this circumstance, it’s oftenmore effective to show the emotionthroughchange—alteringaspeechpattern,fallingbackonhabits,postureshifts,etc.

RELUCTANCE

DEFINITION:unwillingness;aversion

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Stallinggestures(takingtimetothink,turningaway)Ahard,obviousswallowWettingthelipsTensearms,shoulders,orfaceHesitantstepsTheheadpullingbackastheshoulderspushforwardRespondingslowly(acceptinganitem,offeringassistance)PressinglipstogetherGlancingarounduneasilyHandsthatshake,nervoustwitchingHandsalmostcurlingintofistsandthenstraighteningAgrimaceorpainedlookEyebrowssqueezingtogetherStuttering,stammeringMakingexcusesLyingTentativelyreachingoutortouchingHoldingahandup,wardingsomeoneorsomethingoffSuggestingsomeoneelsetohelporactinsteadShakingtheheadAhandflutteringtothelipsorneckNervoushabits(runninghandsthroughthehair,pacing,repetitivegestures)Atoo-quicksmileGlancingatone’swatchJumpinessMovingtowardanexitPuttingdistancebetweenoneselfandtherequesterBitingthelipornailsPinchingthebridgeofthenoseandtightlysqueezingtheeyesChangingthetopicordivertingattentionClosedbodylanguage(handsup,crossedarms)Leaningorturningawayfromthepersonmakingtherequest

AskingfortimetomakethedecisionExpressingskepticismAskingquestionsforclarificationNotmeetingtherequester’seyesNotengaginginfurtherconversationAnsweringwitha“maybe”responseMutteringnegatives:NoorIdon’twantto

INTERNALSENSATIONS:TakingadeepbreathbeforeactingAtighteningchestSlighttensenessinthemusclesAheavinessinthestomach

MENTALRESPONSES:AdesiretogetawayfromthepersonmakingtherequestIndecisionAmindthatisclearlydistractedGuiltSearchingforwaystogetoutofwhateverisrequestedAninabilitytofocusonanythingbutthedecisiontobemadeAneedtojustifyone’sreluctance

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMRELUCTANCE:ResentmentAtightorroilingstomachAvoidanceofthesourceAstrainedrelationshipMAYESCALATETO:SKEPTICISM,DEFENSIVENESS,ANGER,FEAR,DISGUST,RESENTMENT,DREAD

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDRELUCTANCE:Agreeing,thennotfollowingthroughHintsaboutbeingbusyoroverlystressedArisingantipathytowardthepersonresponsibleforthesituationPassive-aggressivecommentsDeflecting,actingasiftherequestisabsurdJokingcommentstodeflectRevealingtruefeelingstoathirdparty,hopingthey’llpasstheinformationalong


WRITER’STIP:Avoidbranddroppingtocharacterize.Brandnamescomeandgoandcandateyourwriting.Insteaduseothercluestoconveyyourcharacter’spersonality,strengths,orshortcomings.

REMORSE

DEFINITION: distress resulting from guilt over wrongdoing; a desire toundoorfixPHYSICALSIGNALS:HeartfeltapologiesAskingtotalkFollowingtheaggrievedpartyRepeatedlyreturningtothescenewherepasteventstookplaceHeaddownastheeyeslookupWateringeyesAhandthatcupsthemouthHoldingone’sheadinhandsTearsthatonedoesnottrytohideorcontrolSilenceOfferingrestitutionUsingthevictim’snameindialoguewhentheyarepresentTellingtheunvarnishedtruthSpeakingwithouthesitationwhenansweringAquiveringchinHoldingthestomachShouldersthatcurloverthechestNotdefendingoneselfagainstattack(verbalorphysical)CrumpledbodypostureStaringdownatthefloorClaspingthehandstogetherinthelapShakingBeggingforforgivenessShouldersthatquakewithrepressedsobsApleadingtoneApaleorunhealthycomplexionDarkcirclesundertheeyesHollowedcheeksReachingouttotouchandthenpullingbackasifnotworthyReadilyagreeingtoapunishmentorpronouncementAvoicethatcracksVerbalizingresponsibilityforwhathappenedQuietanswerstoquestions

ArmshangingatthesidesStillhandsandfeetObedienceBreakingintosobs

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AstomachthatfeelshardRunnynoseNauseaGrittyordryeyesfromlackofsleepAlumpinthethroat

MENTALRESPONSES:MentallyberatingoneselfoveranactionorpoordecisionWantingtofacetheconsequencesObsessingoverfindingawaytorepaythedebtEmpathyfortheotherpartyandwhattheyaregoingthroughBeinghonestaboutone’sroleinthesituationReliefforowninguptowrongdoing

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMREMORSE:WeightlossHeadachesHeartproblemsSelf-destructivebehaviorsoutofthebeliefthatonedoesnotdeservehappinessDesperationtobalancethescalesorresolvethesituationAcompletelifechange(takingupcharitywork,findingGod,etc.)MAYESCALATETO:SHAME,REGRET,DETERMINATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDREMORSE:Avoidingfriendswhoarealsoculpable(ifagroupact)LyingaboutfeelingsClaimingthatthevictimwaspartlyresponsibleMakinganexcusetoleaveDroppingoutofactivities,school,orworkonfalsepretensesMovingaway


WRITER’STIP:Descriptionisclearestwhenawriteradherestotherealorderofeventsinascene.Showtheaction(stimulus),thenthereaction(response)andareaderwillclearlyseehowAleadstoB.

RESENTMENT

DEFINITION: indignation toward an act, remark, or person; feelinginjuredorinsultedPHYSICALSIGNALS:ApinchedmouthArmscrossedoverthechestAflatlook,narrowedeyesScowlingIncreasingone’spersonaldistancefromothersComplainingRudenessPouting(children)CattybehaviorName-callingAvoicethatrisesinvolumeorintensityArguingLookingpastsomeoneratherthanatthemAhardexpressionArmsstraight,handslockedintofistsRefusingtobeboughtoffthroughkindnessorthoughtfulnessShunningthesourceAstiffstancePurposelyignoringsomeone’sconciliatoryeffortsMutteringunderthebreathorcursingTwistingthemouth,asouredexpressionBelittlinganother’sstatusoraccomplishmentTensionintheneckandshouldersPointingandjabbingtheairforemphasisAcurlinglip,showingtheteethAsharp,definedjawlineAtarttone,snappingatothersSabotaginganother’sprojectsoractionsoutofasenseofbeingwrongedTalkingbehindsomeone’sback,gossipingAnunkindsmileShakingtheheadindisapprovalbutnotsayinganythingBallingthehandsintofistsWalkingoutoftheroom

SpinningawayinahuffStompingupthestairsShuttingadoorwithmoreforcethannecessary

INTERNALSENSATIONS:TensionheadachesPaininthejawAtightchestConstrictingthethroatHighbloodpressureStomachtroublesorulcers

MENTALRESPONSES:UnkindthoughtstowardthetargetFrustrationatunfairnessoralackofjusticeFantasizingharmorthedownfallofanotherMoodinessWantingtobealoneFixatingonapersonorsituationtothedetrimentofotherrelationshipsAdesiretobringothersinandcreateamobmentalityofresentment

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMRESENTMENT:WeightgainIllnessInsomniaArriving late, calling in sick, or refusing work shifts to avoid the source ofresentmentHighbloodpressureSeekingrevengeMAYESCALATETO:ANGER,HATRED,JEALOUSY

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDRESENTMENT:WalkingawayKeepingsilentChangingthetopictosomethingsafePuttingonasmile


WRITER’STIP:Whenexposingthereadertoanewscene,person,orobject,itcanbeusefultohavesomedescriptionoropiniondeliveredthroughasecondarycharacter’s dialogue. What they notice and how they respond provides anopportunitytocharacterize.

RESIGNATION

DEFINITION:thestateofsurrendering,oftenwithlittleornoresistance

PHYSICALSIGNALS:SighingdejectedlySlumpedshouldersBlankfeaturesStoopedpostureShufflingfootstepsSmallstepsTearsAmonotonevoiceBecominglessverbalovertimeDulleyesAchinthattremblesAnsweringwithasmallnodSaggingfacialfeaturesLimphandsandarmsUnwashedhairWrinkled,disheveledclothesAlossofappetiteDisinterestinformerhobbiesorpassionsMakingoneselfsmall(huggingoneself,squattingdown,fetalposition)AvoidingeyecontactBeingatalossforwordsLethargically giving comfort to others (rubbing their back, patting theirshoulder)AshakeoftheheadHeadtippingbackonthenecktolookskywardAgreeing,butwithoutemotionClaspingthehandstogetherLeaningforward,elbowsonkneesStaringoffatnothingAhangingheadLoosejawAhalf-heartedshrug

AlongexhaleMuttering,mumblingHoldingtheheadinthehandsProppingacheekonafistUnresponsiveorslowedreactionstostimulusGrunting,one-wordanswersPurposelyclosingtheeyes,asiftoprocessExcessivesleeping

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AfallingordroppingsensationEmptiness,numbnessAlackofemotionWeaknessinthemuscles

MENTALRESPONSES:Adeterminationtomakethebestofthesituation(glasshalf-full)AninabilitytofocusorconcentrateFeelingdirectionlessConfusion:Howdidthishappen?orWhatwillhappentomenow?ThesensethatnothingwilleverbethesameFeelingpowerlessoverthepresentorfutureBelievingthatonehasfailed

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMRESIGNATION:DepressionRetreatinginwardDisconnectingfromothersDoubtingoneself,adecreaseinconfidenceApathyBecomingsubmissive,givingupcontrolMAYESCALATETO:SADNESS,DISAPPOINTMENT,DEFEAT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDRESIGNATION:Whining,questioning,offeringtokenweakargumentsSquaringshoulders,butwithoutanyrealforceorstrengthOfferingasmalldisplayofangerActinglikegivinginwasachoice,nottheonlyoption


WRITER’STIP:Toomanyemotional internalizations inascenecanslowthepaceconsiderably. If the thoughtsarekey, try shifting someof these toactive,realistic dialogue. It will increase the pace and still reveal the character’sfeelings.

SADNESS

DEFINITION:characterizedbygrieforunhappiness

PHYSICALSIGNALS:CryingPuffyfaceoreyesEyesappearredRunningmakeupSplotchyskinSniffing,wipingatnoseWincingDroopingshouldersVoiceistearfulorbreaksStaringdownatone’shandsStoopedpostureRubbingtheheelofapalmagainstchestDecreasedcoordinationandclumsinessAdistantoremptystareAflat,monotonevoiceDownturnedfacialfeaturesCoveringthehandswiththefaceArmshangatthesides,slackRubbingorpressingafistagainstthechestCrossingone’sarms,holdingontoone’sshouldersSlumpingratherthansittingstraightAheavy-footedwalkAslackexpression,wet,dulleyesBendingforward,layingheadonarmsMovementsthatlackenergyAtremblingchinDiggingfortissuesTouchingacrossorfingeringjewelryforcomfortDrawingthelimbsclosetothebodyStaringdownatone’semptyhandsAbowedspineClutchingatokenthatisthefocalpointfortheemotion

QuakingshouldersDecreasedinteractionwiththeworldatlarge

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AnachingchestHotorgummyeyelidsAscratchythroatArunnynoseSorenessinthethroatandlungsTheworldspinningorseemingtoslowdownHeavinessortightnessinthechestandlimbsAheartthatisbreakingorachingBlurredvisionLackofenergyBodyfeelscold

MENTALRESPONSES:DifficultyrespondingtoquestionsAninabilitytoseewherethefuturemightgoTurninginward,withdrawingAdesiretoescapethesadness(throughsleep,drink,companionship)AneedtobealoneWishingcomfortfromothersAvoidingthepainfulsubject,denialWantingthepaintoend

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSADNESS:ApainedkeeningTearspouring,dripping,orcoursingHyperventilating,shortnessofbreathLossofappetiteDespair,hopelessnessDespondencyMAYESCALATETO:NOSTALGIA,DEPRESSION,LONELINESS

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSADNESS:TurningawayHaltingone’sspeechtogaincontrolDeepbreaths

BitingthelipBlinkingGulpingairChangingthesubjectSippingadrinkortakingabitetoeatQuiverysmilesHandsgrippingeachotheroranobjectAhandcoveringthemouth,rubbingthechinFocusingonalleviatinganother’spainratherthanone’sownExcusingoneselftousetherestroomorgetadrinktobealone


WRITER’S TIP: In dialogue, be on the lookout for where your character“thinks” instead of “responds” verbally. This leads to unnatural, one-sidedconversations.

SATISFACTION

DEFINITION:thestateofbeingcontentorfulfilled

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AhighchinandexposedneckAcrispnodArmscrossedSmoothingthefrontofashirtortuggingdownthesleevesOfferinga“thumbs-up”GivingatoastorpraiseClappingsomeoneonthebackAwidestance,fistsonhips,elbowswideSurveyingthefinishedproductwithapleasedexpressionAraisedeyebrowandaSee?lookAsleekwalkthatdrawstheeye(catlike,deliberate)Ashy,confident,radiant,orcockysmileAptdialoguethatsumsupthesituationperfectlySayingItoldyouso!Apuffed-outchestShouldersback,straightpostureAfistpumpClappingFingersformingasteepleIncludingothersinthemomentBraggingAhandcasuallyanchoredonthehipStretchingthearmsoutwideLeaningback,ateaseandincontrolAdeep,gratifyingsighWhistlingorhummingAdistant,unfocusedsmileTakingdeepbreaths,savoringthemomentUnhurried,relaxedmovementsAdirectmanner(eyecontact,strengthinvoice)Rewardingoneself

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Ahyper-awarenessofothersandtheirreactionsAlightnessinthechestWarmthspreadingthroughthebodyAtirednessthatisfulfillingratherthanexhausting

MENTALRESPONSES:HappinessoverajobwelldoneEuphoria,exhilarationContentmentGratificationIncreasedconfidenceLookingforwardtoawell-earnedrestMentallyfixatingontherecentsuccessNotpayingattentiontoone’ssurroundingsSelf-congratulationsGenerositytoothersasaresultoffeelinggratifiedAdesiretotelleveryoneaboutthesuccess

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSATISFACTION:JustifiedpossessivenessAnexpressionofsupremeconfidence,aglowCockinessMAYESCALATETO:HAPPINESS,SMUGNESS,PRIDE,GRATITUDE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSATISFACTION:TwitchinglipsHidingasmilebehindahandBouncinglightlyonthetoesGettingawayatthefirstopportunitytotellsomeonethegoodnewsSettlingbackinachairinrelease


WRITER’S TIP: Loners and their lack of social interaction present specificwriting challenges.Tobreakup long stretchesof introspection,maintain somecharacter relationships. Remember that a person can be lonely even whensurroundedbypeople;use thedialogue,dysfunction,anddramathatgoalongwiththoserelationshipstokeepthepacemovingforward.

SCORN

DEFINITION:extremecontemptorderision;regardingasinferior

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AbitingremarkBelittlingcommentsthatremindthetargetwhohastheupperhandAsmirkAquick,disgustedsnortLoomingoverthetargetCrossedarms,awidestanceSarcasmAtightjawAharshsquintAdeliberateeyebrowraiseandheadtiltPullingdownglassesandlookingovertherimswithaflatgazeFlappingahandindismissalBullyingtacticsAnexaggeratedeyerollorupwardglanceBlowingoutabreaththatrattlesthelipsInsultingthetargetinfrontofothersAthrust-outchestAnuglytwisttothemouthEncouragingotherstospeakupagainstthetargetLimitedverbalresponses,asifthetargetisn’tevenworthtalkingtoLaughteratanother’sexpenseAwrinklednoseFlickingahandinfrontofone’snoseasiftogetridofabadsmellAtightmouth,asiftastingsomethingbadNarrowedeyesStaringthetargetdownApplaudinginadeliberatelyfalsefashionProjectinghurtfulobservations:I’dbeembarrassedifIwereyou!AngeratbeingtouchedoraddressedbythetargetCallingattentiontoanother’sweaknessesIgnoringthetargetSpeakingslowlytoemphasizehurtfulwords

Leavingtoshowthatthetargetisnotworthone’stimeorenergyApologizingtoothersforhavingtheirtimewastedbythetarget

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Apuffed-upfeelingAdrenalinerushattakingawayanother’spower

MENTALRESPONSES:ElationatdeliveringablowtoanopponentthroughdialogueoractionAngerAdesiretoputthepersonintheirplaceSuperiorityArrogance

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSCORN:AskingquestionstofurtherincriminatethetargetEggingthetargetonPickingfightsForcingthetargetintocircumstanceswhereheissuretofailGatheringotherlike-mindedpeopleandencouragingtheirscornSeekingtohurtthrougha“lowblow”commentMAYESCALATETO:ANGER,HATRED,ELATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSCORN:Ablank,emotionlessfaceBecomingunresponsivetoquestionsoractionTurningawayShakingtheheadAslightmusclejumpinthecheekTightenedjawClampingone’slipstighttokeepfromsayinganythingMakinganexcusetoleave


WRITER’STIP:Whendescribingacharacter’semotionalstate,payattentiontotheirvoice.Doesitriseordropinpitch?Getlouderorsofter?Growroughorsilky smooth? Changes in pitch and tone are great indicators for when acharacteristryingtohidetheirfeelingsfromothers.

SHAME

DEFINITION:thefeelingthatarisesfromadishonorableorimproperact;disgracePHYSICALSIGNALS:CheeksthatburnCrumplingontoachairorsofaPullingarmsandlegsintowardthecoreMutteringWhathaveIdone?orHowcouldIletthishappen?UsingthehairtohidethefacePullingaballcaplowPressinghandsagainstone’scheeksDroppingthechintothechestWeteyesAblanklookAninabilitytomeetanother’seyesCrumplingunderscrutinyShaking,trembling,shiveringHunchedshouldersAperpetualslouchTearsAclosed-offstance(crossingthearms,makingoneselfsmall,avertingthehead)PressingapalmoverthelipstoholdbackacryShakingtheheadLettingoutanuncontrolledmoanPunchingfistsagainstthighstoreleasefrustrationLashingoutatotherstotransferangerorblameArmshangingatthesidesHitchingbreathsAtremblingchinShieldingthebody,anglingawayfromthosebearingwitnesstoshamePullingandtuggingatone’sclothesasiftheycanmakeonelessvisibleVandalismofone’sownthingsLossofinterestinone’spersonalappearanceSeekingoutsecondchances(fawning,begging,followingothers)toregainselfworthLyingordoingwhateverittakestokeepashamefulsecret

INTERNALSENSATIONS:Hypersensitivitytonoise,crowds,activityFlu-likesymptoms(nausea,sweats,tinglinginchest)WeakkneesThicknessinthroatHeatandtinglinginfaceBodytremors

MENTALRESPONSES:FlightreactionPullingawayfromfriendsandlovedonesAvoidingfamiliarplacesandactivitiesSelf-loathing,beratingoneself,anger,disgustRisk-takingbehaviors,hopingsomethingwillhappentobalancethescaleDenialAnutterlackofself-confidenceAdesiretofadeintothebackgroundandavoidnotice

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSHAME:Self-violence(scratching,cutting,pullinghair)DepressionSubstanceabuseEatingdisordersIncreasedsexualactivityPanicattacksAnxietydisordersPerfectionisttendenciestobalancethesourceofshameSeekingpowerasameansofself-validationDenial,diversionofblametoothersSuicideAbusiverelationshipsAttemptingtochangeone’sappearanceThebeliefthatonedeservespainRejectinghelpoutofadesiretodopenanceMAYESCALATETO:DEPRESSION,HUMILIATION,REMORSE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSHAME:Shame is, by and large, private. People are always trying to suppress thisemotionsoallcuesforshamearenaturallysuppressed.


WRITER’STIP:Therearedozensofphysical,internal,andmentalresponsestouse when conveying a given emotion. Filter possible cues through what youknow about your character. “Wouldmy character react thisway?” is a greatquestiontoasktostayontherighttrack.

SKEPTICISM

DEFINITION:havingadispositionofdoubtorincredulity

PHYSICALSIGNALS:PursingthelipsinthoughtTiltingtheheadandpausingShakingtheheadPressingthelipsintoafinelineRaisingtheeyebrowsClearingthethroatFiddlingwithjewelryorotheritemsShruggingNodding,butwithatightexpressiontoshowoneisnotfullycommittedAconfrontationalstanceAsmirkoreyerollAhandflapthatdismissesthepersonortheirideaDemandingprooforevidencetosupportListingthepossibleconsequencesPoliteverbaloppositionAcondescendingsmileMutteringnegatives: I don’t think so orNoway thatwouldwork Restlessness(pacing,tappingfingers,clock-watching)AtightnessinthefaceRigidbodypostureRubbingthebackoftheneckwithoutmakingeyecontactNarrowedeyesBitingorchewingonone’slipGossipingwithothers,runningapersondownfortheirchoicesorideasSnipingremarksLickingone’slipsHemmingandhawingReferencingsimilareventsfromthepastthatdidnotpanoutBringingupeverythingthatcouldgowrongApurposefulshiverorshudderBitingthefingernailsAheavysigh

WalkingawayTappingafingeragainstthetabletopinanefforttodriveapointhomeAskingAreyousure?orWhatif?questionsAjuttingchinAsilentlookWrinklingthenoselikethere’sabadsmellAquickexhalethroughthenose,asnort

INTERNALSENSATIONS:TightnessinthechestIncreasedheartbeatandpulseTensemusclesAflareofadrenaline,firingthebraintoact

MENTALRESPONSES:NegativethoughtsUncertaintyHoninginonflaws,eitheroflogicorofaphysicalnatureAdesiretochangethespeaker’smindorstandpointWantingtobearoundpeoplewiththesameopinions

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSKEPTICISM:AngerFrustrationPassiveskepticismbecomingmoreovertLookingforwaystodiscreditthespeakerAdesiretoshutthespeakerupThemindracingthroughpossibleargumentsDisbelief,thatotherscan’tseethetruthActivelyseekingtobringpeopleovertoone’swayofthinkingBecomingargumentativeMAYESCALATETO:UNCERTAINTY,SUSPICION,RESIGNATION,SCORN

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSKEPTICISM:AttemptingtokeepaneutralfacialexpressionFootstepsthatdragAquickwideningoftheeyesbeforeschoolingone’sexpressionApologizingfornotshowingimmediatesupport

Sittingstill,handsclasped,mimickinginterestandattentionActing noncommittal: Interesting idea, or That’s something to think aboutAskingforapersontoreviewtheprosandconsagainforclaritySuggestingatrialbasisasasolutionRequestingmoretimetoreflectAsuggestionthatperhapsmorethoughtorstudyisneeded


WRITER’S TIP: Don’t make it easy for your heroes. Pile on the difficulties.Overwhelmthem.Makeitseeminglyimpossibleforthemtosucceedsothatwhentheydoovercome,thereaderwillbeproperlyimpressed.

SMUGNESS

DEFINITION:supremeconfidenceinandsatisfactionwithoneself

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AjuttingchinCrossedarmsAthrust-outchestDeliberatelyraisedeyebrowsCockingortiltingtheheadAsmirkorsneerDirect,probingeyecontactSquintingandahardsmileAdismissivenodorglanceRollingtheeyesAggressiveteasingintendedtoputanotherintheirplaceAsighconveyingannoyance(ahuff)WavingahandindismissalLeaninginaggressivelyasiftochallengeRockingbackonheelsMean-spiritedtalkbehindanother’sbackProjectingthevoice,reinforcingwhohastheupperhandSarcasm:Whatever,orSureyouare,orIfyousayso!AlookthatradiatessuperiorityPerfectposture,shouldersback,exposedneckAdeterminedwalk,strut,orswaggerAloudvoice,bragging,fullofblusterUsingboisterousmovementstodrawattentiontooneselfAwidestanceCriticismandbelittlementTalkingoverpeople,controllingconversationsLookingdownone’snoseatothersDominantbehavior(invadinganother’spersonalspace,standingwhileotherssit)Lavishingpraiseonfavoredones(children,friends,peopleinpower)AnarrogantlaughPreening(fussingwithclothing,checkingoneselfinthemirror)Flashyordramaticclothing

Tossingone’shairback,ashakeoftheheadAdoptingaponderingpose(handclaspingthechinasifstruckbydeepthoughts)SettlingbackinachairwithexaggeratedcasualnessMovementsthatdrawattention(wavingacigar,gesturingwithaglassofwine)AdeliberatecrossingofthelegsorclaspingofthehandsFidgetingwithjewelryinordertodrawattentiontoitClappingsomeoneontheback,overplayingclosenessorfriendshipName-droppingRubbingitinwithanI-told-you-so

INTERNALSENSATIONS:WarmthradiatingthroughoutthebodyApuffed-upfeeling

MENTALRESPONSES:Afirmbeliefinone’sownrightnessandsuperiorityDisdainforthosewhoareunworthyOver-confidenceAdesiretobelittletheunworthyandexaltone’sownaccomplishmentsGratitudeathavingrisenabovetherestThebeliefthatthosewhohavenotsucceededaretoblamefortheirfailure

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSMUGNESS:ExtremeprideinappearanceandpossessionsCarefulconsiderationoffriendships,purchases,placeswhereoneisseenRemindingsomeoneofapastmistaketorubitinChoosingtospendtimeinenvironmentsthatareareminderofsuccessGenerositythatdisplayspower(hostingcharityfunctions,etc.)ActingasifrulesdonotapplyoroneisabovethelawMAYESCALATETO:CONTEMPT,SCORN

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSMUGNESS:MakingtokenacknowledgementstothosewhoplayedapartinanoutcomeCitingthatluckwasinvolved,butnotmeaningitPreachyadvice:DowhatIdidandyou’llsucceedtoo.


WRITER’S TIP: When describing a character’s feelings, the word “felt” is

often a cue for telling emotion, not showing. Run a search for this word andchallengeyourselfonitsuse.

SOMBERNESS

DEFINITION:havingadarkorgloomymanner

PHYSICALSIGNALS:AnunmovingstanceAvoicedevoidofemotion,deadpanAgraveexpressionAsadorseriousdemeanorHandsfoldedinone’slapSittingquietlyFlaccidyetunwelcoming(closed)bodylanguageAtendencytolookdownAthoughtfulexpressionHesitationbeforespeaking,asifweighingwordsDarkorheavyobservationsAbleakmoodthataffectsothers,lessensenergy,bringspeopledownAninwardgazeorunfocusedstareLoosepostureSpeakingattheairratherthanmakeeyecontactwithothersHandsclaspedlooselybehindthebackandgazedownAslowwalkFeaturesaresmooth,expressionlessKeepingarmsandlegsinclosetothebodyMovementsarefunctionalandpreciseUnsmiling,humorlessWordsarechosendeliberatelyNotreactingtostimuli(laughter,excitement,activities)Drab,colorlessclothingchoicesAgrimtwisttothemouthSedatemannerisms,minimaloreconomicalmovementEyesthatlookdarkorseriousAnunnaturalstillnessApensiveexpressionFoodanddrinklackstasteordoesnotbringenjoyment

INTERNALSENSATIONS:

Fatigue,lackingenergyHeavinessinthelimbsormusclesAweighed-downfeelingBreathingisslowandeven

MENTALRESPONSES:SubduedpersonalityAnegativeoutlookAdesiretobealoneDifficultyengaginginconversationSearchinginternallyforanswersratherthanaskingothers

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSOMBERNESS:AcceptinganegativeoutcomeorrealizationUninterestedinhobbiesorentertainmentsMelancholy,gloomyShunningotherpeoplewhoarenotoflikemindInabilitytofocusontheneedsofothers(children,family)Apathetictowardgoals,desiresorupcomingeventsMAYESCALATETO:DEPRESSION,RESIGNATION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSOMBERNESS:ForcedlaughterAtoo-frequentsmileSmilesthatquicklyfadeAgreeingtoattendhappysocialevents,thennotshowingSmilesthatdon’treachtheeyesLightwordsdeliveredinaserioustoneAddinganadornment(apin,fancyhat,abrightscarf)solelyforappearances


WRITER’S TIP: If your scene includes a small dip into the past to retrieveinformationthathasdirectbearingonthecurrentaction,makesurethereisanemotionalcomponent.Emotionsaretriggerstomemoryandhelptiethepresenttothepast.

SURPRISE/SHOCKDEFINITION:unexpectedlystruckwithafeelingofwonder,joy,orfearNOTE:canbenegativeorpositive

PHYSICALSIGNALS:ThemouthfallingopenAhandflyingtothechestFingerstouchingpartedlipsAgaspAnincredulousstareordazedlookJerkingtheheadbackSlappinghandsagainstthecheeksAplayfulswatatafriendforcausingthesurpriseShufflingbackasteportwoAyelp,gasporsquealAsuddenstiffeningposture,rigidmusclesStoppingmid-strideorstumblingHuggingfriendsclosebyGiddinessWideningorbulgingeyes,adoubletakeShakingthehead,voicingdenialStuttering,stammeringAriseinvocalpitchGrabbingontoafriend’sarmHidingthefaceSqueezingtheeyesshutGrippingthesidesoftheheadasiftocovertheearsSpreadingthefingersoutinafanagainstthebreastboneTouchingthethroatTurningaway(negativesurprise)Pullingbooksorpackagestightlyagainstone’schestRaisingahandtowardoffothersfromapproachingorspeakingAshaky,soft,halting,ordisbelievingvoiceAskingsimplequestionsforclarification:Who?When?Why?AtentativesmilethatbuildsassurprisesinksinAbarkoflaughterBreathsthatcatchorhitch

Tippingorturningtheheadtotheside

INTERNALSENSATIONS:TinglingskinAheavyfeelinginthestomachRacingheartbeatBreathlessnessAsuddencoldnessthathitsatthecore(ifsurpriseisnegative)Disorientation,dizziness,oreuphoriaAflutteryfeelinginthebellyAflushofadrenalinetinglingthroughthebody

MENTALRESPONSES:WantingtohideFuzzythoughts,aninabilitytothinkEmbarrassment

CUESOFACUTESURPRISE(SHOCK):Ducking,coveringone’sheadwiththearmsCollapsingfromaperceivedfrightBreathlessnessTearsorshakinessDuckingthechintohidetheneckJerkinessinthelegs,leapingbackHandsrushingtowardthemouthtocoverGaspingorlettingoutasharpscreamClutchingatone’schestonreflexMusclestightening,headdrawingbackstifflyFlightreaction(runningaway,hiding)Fightreaction(shovingtheinitiator,deliveringapunchtoreleaseanxiety)ArmsdrawingbacktothebodycoreinaprotectiveflinchStutteringorspeechlessnessSwearingorshoutingMAYESCALATETO:AMAZEMENT,HAPPINESS,FEAR,ANGER,RELIEF,DISAPPOINTMENT

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSURPRISE:One’ssmilegoingstiffinaneffortnottoloseit(negative)Rapidblinking

WideningeyesLiftingtheeyebrowsAclosed-lippedsmileNoddingthehead,asifoneisnotsurprisedatallAquicktensingofthebodyAsplitsecondwherebreathingissuspendedTighteningthegriponwhateverisbeingheldShakingout thehands inaneffort to relax thebodyonce the initial shockhaspassed


WRITER’STIP:Withemotion,neverbeafraidtotrysomethingnew.Individualexpressionsshouldbegenuinebutunique.

SUSPICION

DEFINITION:suspecting,withlittleornoproof,thatsomethingiswrong

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Narrowingtheeyes,squintingBodyanglingawayfromsuspectAwrinkledbrowFlushedskinAdeliberateloweringoftheheadtostudyorstareArmstighttothebodyShootingglancesatthesuspectAvoidingdirecteyecontactAfakesmileSneakingorspyingEavesdroppingFollowingthesuspectedpersonKeepingatasafedistanceEvaluatingthesubject’smannerandappearanceForcednonchalancetoavoidthesubject’snotice(handsinpockets)CrouchingorleaningforwardtogetcloserwithoutbeingseenLipspressedflatRecordingthesuspect’sactivityandmovement(notes,pictures,etc.)AsetjawHeadtiltedwhilementallyweighingevidenceBeingconfrontational:Whatareyoudoinghere?orWhatdoyouwant?PointingafingerwhileconfrontingOpenlyexpressingdistrustCrossingthearmsLegswideapartAraisedvoiceTryingtoconvinceothersofthesuspect’sguiltBigmovements(wavingarmswhiletalking,countingoutargumentsonfingers)SwayingfromsidetosideArguingwiththesuspectPacingBitingtheinsideofthelip

Sarcasm: So you just happened to be near whenmy car’s tires were slashed,huh?QuestioningothersasawayofgatheringinformationGooglingthesuspect

INTERNALSENSATIONS:QuickenedbreathsAdrenalinerushThumpingheartbeatFight-or-flightreflexkickinginAknotinthebellyAsenseofreleasewhenconfrontingthesuspect

MENTALRESPONSES:Intentlistening,soastocatchthesuspectintheirlieMentallyrunningthrougheverythingknownaboutthesituationWantingtoshieldoneselfandothersfromthepersonSecondguessing,fearingotherswillthinkone’sconcernsareirrationalCarefullypreparinganargumentorplanofattackWeighingthedangerlevelofthesituation

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSUSPICION:ObsessionwiththesuspectStalkingSettingupthesuspectinthehopeshewillrevealhistrueselfAttemptingtoopenlydiscreditorblackballthesuspectContactingtheappropriateauthoritiestoexpressconcernFantasizingaboutthedaythesuspectisfinallyexposedMAYESCALATETO:FEAR,AGITATION,ANGER,PARANOIA

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSUSPICION:AslightheadnodHmms,asopposedtoovertagreementAflattoneofvoiceNoncommittalanswersAvoidingthesuspectedpersonAgreeingtooquickly,tooloudlyOver-the-topsupport:I’mwithyou100%,IabsolutelyagreeNervousmovements(bitingnails,twistingashirtbutton,rubbingtheneck)

Standingbackfromthesuspect,notsteppingintohiscircleoffriendsSpendingminimumtimewiththesuspectbeforefindingareasontoleave


WRITER’STIP:Whileit’stemptingtoletacharacterspeakopenlyabouttheiremotionsindialogue,itwillraisearedflagforthereader.Ifyouwouldn’tsayitinreallife,don’tletyourcharacter.

SYMPATHY

DEFINITION:sensitivitytoandsharinginanother’semotions

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Kindwords,asoothingtoneTellingsomeonethattheyaren’talone,howthingswillworkoutRubbingsomeone’sbackSqueezingashoulderorhandLightlystrokingaforearmAsadsmileOfferingadeepsighandthoughtfulexpressionApartinghuglastinglongerthannormalAnunderstandingnodEyesnarrowing,eyebrowspullingdowninconcentrationCryingwiththepersonOffering the bright side:At least now we know, or It could have been worseHugging,holdingPullingsomeoneagainstyourshoulderStrokingorsmoothingsomeone’shairClumsyattemptstocomfort(aweaksmile,anawkwardhug)FumblingforwordsPattingalegincomfortLeaningin,scootingcloserAgentletone,usingwordstheotherpersonwantstohearPhrasingquestionsinapositivewaytomaketheotherpersonfeelbetterSittingwithkneestouchingtheotherperson’sBringingaboxoftissueoracupoftea,unaskedFlounderinghandmovementsPullingsomeoneintoasidehugHandlingdistractions(answeringthephone)sotheotherpersonwon’thavetoApologizing, not out of accountability, but to voice the unfairness of thesituationOffering the advice of a relative or well-known person:As my uncle used tosay…Fussingovertheperson’sappearancewhilespeakinginencouragingtonesListeningintentlywhileignoringdiscomforts(cold,rain,heat)

Making sacrifices to offer comfort (cancelling plans, being late for anappointment)

*SPECIAL:SympatheticphysicalsignalsbetweenmalesSayingThatsucks,orYeah,Ihearyou,orIfeelyou,manAsofttaptothearm,apatonthebackLightlytouchingashoulderListening,armscrossedoverone’schestLeaninginawkwardlywithhandsinthepockets,askingifthingsareokayAheavynodSpeakinginaquietvoiceAsingleshouldershrugthatbreaksquicklyListeningwhileparticipatinginanotheractivityLooking elsewhere while listening, so as not to make the other maleuncomfortableOfferingtotakehimsomewhere—awalk,acarride,tohangoutAgreeing,evenifhe’sbeingirrationalLettinghimblowoffsteamortalktrashaboutothersOfferingtoavengetheoffendedpartyAttemptingtodistracthim(goingtothemovies,aparty,drinking)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:FeelingemotionallydrainedAnoverallweightedfeelingAslowerheartbeatAcheinthethroat

MENTALRESPONSES:AdesiretobenearortomakephysicalcontactWishingonecouldalleviatethepainUncertaintyaboutwhattosayListeningwithoutjudgmentWorry that this event couldhappen to anyone, particularly to oneself or lovedonesAppreciationforthelittlethingsThemindturningoftentothepersonOfferingupprayersontheirbehalfAnarrowedfocus,allowingforsoleconcentrationontheotherpersonRelief

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMSYMPATHY:ObsessivethoughtsonhowtofixthesituationEmployingclichés:Thistoowillpass,keepyourchinup,etc.Givingcomfortthroughgifts,plyingapersonwithfoodorattentionInvolvingoneselfinthesituation,internalizingtheotherperson’spainMAYESCALATETO:SADNESS,ADORATION,LOVE,GRATITUDE,NOSTALGIA,WORRY

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDSYMPATHY:Ahandthatliftstowardssomeone,thenlowersSpeakingoftenofthepersonorsituationPrivatelyprayingforthepersonSmilingorwinkingatthepersonbutnotofferingverbalsupportWatchingatadistance,hopingforchange


WRITER’STIP:Emotionsusuallydon’t jump frommild toextreme inashortperiodof time.Togain the reader’s trust, lay theproper foundationand showhowstressorsleadtoagreaterintensity.

TERROR

DEFINITION:astateofextremefear

PHYSICALSIGNALS:RaspingbreathsBulgingeyes,aninabilitytoblinkFullbodytremorsBoltingoutofhiding,rushingawayfromthethreatScreaming,crying,blubberingSpeechlessnessorincoherenceHoldingoneselftightly(clutchingthearmsorwrappingarmsaroundthebelly)SqueezingeyesshutMoaning,whimperingTremblingchinandlipsRunningawaywithnodestinationinmindShakingone’sheadasifindenialClappingthehandsovertheearsPressingfiststothesidesoftheheadCrumpling,sinkingtothegroundRetreatingintothefetalpositionorcurlinguponthekneesCoveringthefaceCringing,flinching,jumpingatsoundsTensemuscles,rigidpostureAprimalscreamFlaringnostrilsGrabbingontoanotherperson,refusingtoletgoorleavethemClumsiness(bumpingintothings,knockingthingsover)ClutchingthethroatorchestGaspingforairClammyskinAharried,wildappearanceClawingatthecheeks,draggingthefingersdownTremorsinthehandsandfingersCopioussweatingRiskinglesserdangerinordertoescapeCausingself-harmandnotnoticing(cuts,bruises,etc.,whiletryingtoescape)

Spinningaround,tryingtospotanyandalldangerBackingawayinquick,jerkystepsfromsomethingorsomeoneFightresponse(arushattack,usinganythingathandtohitordestroy)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:HyperventilationAracingpulseSoundofheartbeatthrashingintheearsAclenchedjawHighpaintolerance,notfeelingornoticinginjuriesIncreasedstrengthorstaminaClaustrophobia(eveninonewhoisnotusuallyclaustrophobic)Paininthechest,lungs,orthroatWeaklegsIncreasedsensitivitytoeverysound,touch,orchangeintheenvironmentDizziness,seeingblackspots

MENTALRESPONSES:Acompulsiontolookback(whenfleeing)ImpaireddecisionmakingAsingle-mindedfocus:tosaveoneselforsomeoneelseRisktakingSurrenderifbreakingpointisreachedHyper-vigilanceThoughtsthatkeepcomingbacktotheworstpossibleoutcomeSensitivitytonoiseandmovement

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMTERROR:Passingoutfromastressoverload,lackofoxygen,orbothAmentalbreak(humming,rocking,handsoverearsoreyes)HeartattackShuttingdownmentally,retreatinginwardPostTraumaticStressDisorderInsomniaHallucinationsAnxietyattacksWeightlossNightmaresDepression

SubstanceabuseDifficultiesrelatingtoothersIsolationPhobiasMAYESCALATETO:PARANOIA,RAGE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDTERROR:Terrorbynature isalmost impossible tosuppressorhide.Anyattempt tohideterrorwouldsimplydisplayitselfasFEAR


WRITER’S TIP: When conveying high emotion, keep the metaphors to aminimum.Nomatterhowfloweryorcreativeacharactermightbe,inthemidstof strong emotion, most people don’t think in those terms. Keep it simple tomaintainbelievability.

UNCERTAINTY

DEFINITION: the stateofbeingunsure;unable to commit toa courseofaction

PHYSICALSIGNALS:BitingtheliporinsideofthecheekFrowningGlancingatotherstoseewhattheythinkLookingdownAskingothersforadviceoropinionsHandsthatfidget(twistingtogether,rubbingdownthefrontofone’spants)AdowncastexpressionForeheadwrinklingSquinting,lookinginwardPinchingortuggingonthebottomlipTiltingtheheadfromsidetoside,weighingchoicesRubbingthejaworbackoftheneckPushingthehairoutofthefaceAnimpatienthuffShufflingfeetHesitatingmid-action(whilereachingforsomethingorpullingoutawallet)Startingasentencewiththeword,Well…PullingbackslightlyAgrimaceandaslightshakeoftheheadAskingquestionstoelicitmoreinformationMakingaHmmmnoiseorthroatclearingSwallowingCrackingtheknuckles,orother‘stalling’gesturesDoodlingonpaperSwayingorrockingonone’sfeetRubbingthelipsorchinBitingtheinsideofthecheekorbottomlipSighingRollingtheneckTappingapencilagainstanotepadortableJottingnotesasawaytodelayanswering

Roundedshoulders,aslumpedpostureStaringatnothingforanoverlongmomentTalkingthroughtheoptionsaloudAskingforreassurance

INTERNALSENSATIONS:BreathsthatcatchinthechestTensenessinone’sstomachIncreasedthirst

MENTALRESPONSES:FeelingtrappedIndecisionUneaseatone’soptionsorchoicesThemindracingthroughpossibilitiesAvoidingthepersonorissueAdesperateneedtofindanswersFeelingflusteredbyaless-than-idealsituationMakingdecisions,thensecond-guessingoneselfShuttingdown,refusingtomakeadecision

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMUNCERTAINTY:Self-doubtUncertaintythatbleedsintootherdecisionsandsituationsAngerandfrustrationDismissingthesituationwithoutmakingadecisionInabilitytomakeanydecisiononone’sownResearching(searchingtheweb,speakingwithprofessionals)tofindanswersGoingforawalkorleavingthesituationinhopesofgainingaclearheadRepeatedlypostponingorreschedulingeventsAnincreasedsenseofdesperationastimegoesbyandthesituationisunresolvedMAYESCALATETO:CONFUSION,DENIAL,FRUSTRATION,UNEASE

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDUNCERTAINTY:AdelayedresponseAnoncommittalanswer:MaybeorWe’llseeChangingthetopictoavoidhurtfeelingsoranargumentDiversionratherthanopensupport

AhesitantnodStallingfortime(pouringaglassofwateranddrinking)Refusingtoanswer,lettingthesilencedothetalkingOpeningone’smouthtoargue,thenstoppingOffering something noncommittal: Let’s put that in our back pocket for now,okay?SuggestingavoteofmajorityOfferingweakagreementorhalf-heartedsupportRequestingmoretimetoconsiderinordertodelayPassive-aggressiveness


WRITER’S TIP: Maintain an overall perspective of emotional range as thestoryprogressesfromscenetoscene.Astrongmanuscriptwillalwaysexposethereader to contrasting emotional experiences that fit within the context of thePOVcharacter’sgrowth.

UNEASE

DEFINITION:arestlessnessofthebodyormind

PHYSICALSIGNALS:Shakingone’sheadCrossinganduncrossingthearmsorlegsShiftinginone’schairTwistingorpullingatclothingSlippinghandsintopocketsSidelongglanceswhilekeepingtheheadstillTskingormakinganoiseinthethroatLeaningawayfromthesourceDrawingback,makingoneselfsmallerStoppingtolistenintentlyAquickglanceatthesource,thenaway(aperson,aclock,adoor)Chewingonafingernail,pickingatcuticlesDrawingthemouthintoastraightlineandbitingthelipExcessiveswallowingAshakyvoiceTuggingclothesmorefirmlyintoplace,closinganopenjacketFlippinghairorcombingfingersthroughitHidingbehindone’sbangsBeingunnaturallyquietThroatclearingFrowningPushingfoodaroundonaplateGulpingfooddowninordertoescapemorequicklyTryingtoevadenotice(slumpinginachair,withdrawingfromconversation)Turningslowly,unwillinglyClutchinganitemtightlyorholdingitasashieldReluctantlyspeakingorapproachingsomeoneStilted,haltingdialogueAtappingheelCheckingacellformessagesortoseethetimeFiddlingwithjewelryorpropsAswingingfootthatsuddenlygoesstill

ScrunchingoneselfupinachairorsofaChoosingasafespottowaitFlickingthroughamagazinewithoutreadingitLiftingthechininanattempttolookconfidentConsciouslyforcingone’slimbstorelaxLickingthelipsTighteningthehandsintofists,thenlooseningthemRigidpostureNervoushabits(pickingoffnailpolish,hummingunderthebreath)Warm,sweatyhandsConstantmotion(applyinglipgloss,textingpeople,rootinginpurse)

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AslightchillorshiverHairliftingonthebackoftheneckApricklingofthescalpAquiverinthestomach

MENTALRESPONSES:ThefeelingofbeingwatchedDenial:There’snothingwrong,orYou’reoverreacting.Heightenedemotions,afeelingofbeingonedgeImpatienceTimefeelslikeit’sslowingdownHeightenedwatchfulness

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMUNEASE:Increasedfidgeting,aninabilitytoremainstillPacingAnunshakeablesenseofsomethingbeingwrongAneedtoleave,butnotunderstandingwhyShiftingfromfoottofootFeelingphysicallyillPretendingtobeunawareofaloudargumentoruncomfortablesituationMAYESCALATETO:NERVOUSNESS,WORRY,FEAR

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDUNEASE:Tryingtoslowone’sbreathingAttemptingtoloosenupbyrollingtheshoulders

AnunfocusedgazeasonestrivesformentalcalmWalkingawaytogaincomposureWideeyesAquick,falsesmileStudiouslynotlookingatthesourceKeepingatadistanceTalkingtoofast


WRITER’STIP:Tocreateastrongerreaderreactiontoemotion,remembertofocus on showing what triggers the feeling, rather than only showing thecharacter’sresponsetoit.

WARINESS

DEFINITION:mistrustmarkedbycautionandwatchfulness;beingalerttopossibledangerPHYSICALSIGNALS:HeadcockedtothesideEyesnarrowed,asifinconfusionPursingthelipsLoweringthebrowsCuttingtheeyestowardthesourceHandsupinadefensivestanceSpeakinginasoothing,placatingvoiceBackingawayPosture“perksup”asawarenessincreasesSidestepping,butkeepingone’sgazeonthesourceActivelylisteningforsomethingLiftingthechinKeepingone’shandsfreeTakingnoteofpossibleexitsBeingawareofwhatliesbehindAskingquestionstodiscerntherootissuebeforethingsturnbadCircling,approachingsomeoneorsomethinginaroundaboutfashionSlow,cautiousmovementsSpeakingrapidly,withtheintentofmaintainingthestatusquoStandingbackandobservingbeforejumpinginStiffeningandgoingstillAstrainedortensevoiceFlinchingwhentouchedHesitationLipbitingorpressingthelipstogetherAprobinggazeCarefulwordsAfurrowedbrowRubbingattheforeheadortemplesGrittingtheteethAsternorseriousexpressionAjuttingjawAlerttosuddenmovements

INTERNALSENSATIONS:IncreasedadrenalineRapidheartbeatandpulseTensemusclesBreaththatcatchesorstopsbrieflyAn intuitive feeling that something isn’t right (hairs standing up, prickling ofskin)

MENTALRESPONSES:MindtriestodiscernpossibledangerTrustingone’sgutfeelingsHeightenedsensesDefensivenessRacingthoughtswhiletryingtomakesenseofthesituationConfusionDifficultycommittingfullytoanyactionAfinely-tunedsenseofobservationTryingtoseeandheareverythingatonceAninabilitytorelaxorsmileThinkingaheadtowhatmighthappen

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMWARINESS:Increasingone’spersonalspacePositioningoneselftocreateabarrier(movingbehindatable,etc.)Arguingwithoutaggression,onlytoprovideinsightScanningforpotentialweaponsAsking questions one knows the answers to in an effort to discern another’sintentMAYESCALATETO:ANXIETY,FEAR,UNEASE,SUSPICION

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDWARINESS:StandoffishnessLookingfromloweredlidsAttemptingtolightenthemoodwithajokeA posture that suggests discomfort (standing by oneself, clamping the handsaroundthewaist)LeaningawayHesitation


WRITER’STIP:Whenwritingemotion,pull fromyourownpast.Even if youhaven’t experienced what the POV character is going through, chances areyou’ve felt the same emotion about something else. Draw on your personalexperienceandbringlifetothestory.

WORRY

DEFINITION:mentaldistressthatarisesfromdisturbingthoughts,usuallyregardingsomeanticipatedeventPHYSICALSIGNALS:WrinklingthebrowBitingone’slipPinchingtheskinatthethroatFeetthatbounceortapPullingortwistingatone’shairPacingDrinkingtoomuchcoffee,smokingtoomuchCirclesundertheeyesEyebrowsdrawingtogetherTossingandturninginbed,aninabilitytosleepAskingtoomanyquestionsStrokingorrubbinganeyebrowRumpled,unwashedclothesRubbingone’shandsonpantlegsLankorunwashedhairPoorcommunicationwithothersRepeatedlyrubbingthefaceAgazethatflitsaroundtheroom,neversettlingonapersonorobjectforlongClingingtolovedonesTakingdeepbreathsinanefforttocalmoneselfPointlessactivityasawaytostaybusyCallinginsickStoopedpostureClutchingatasweater,purse,ornecklaceforcomfortBitingthenails,chewingonaknuckleRunningajerkyhandthroughthehairSmoothingandre-smoothingclothingClaspingone’shandstogetherAstiffneck,strainedmusclesApainedorwaterygazeThroatclearingBlinkingless(asifworriedonemightmisssomething)Fidgeting,havingahardtimesittingstill

Sitting,thenstanding,thensittingagain

INTERNALSENSATIONS:AlossofappetiteAsensitivestomachHeartburnorotherdigestiveissuesDrymouth

MENTALRESPONSES:UncertaintyoverchoicesmadeAnunwillingnesstoleaveacertainplace(phone,house,car)AninabilitytofocusAneedtocontrolRegretforapastactionDistancingoneselffromothersReadingintothings,over-analyzingAssumingtheworst-casescenarioOver-protectivenessIrritability

CUESOFACUTEORLONG-TERMWORRY:WeightlossPrematuregrayNewwrinklesSlippinggradesatschool,poorperformanceatworkUlcersAnxietyattacksPanicdisordersHighbloodpressureHeartdiseaseIncreasedsicknessduetocompromisedimmunesystemInsomniaandfatigueHypochondriaMAYESCALATETO:WARINESS,FEAR,ANXIETY,PARANOIA,DREAD

CUESOFSUPPRESSEDWORRY:FurtivelywatchingtheclockordoorJumpiness

AstrainedorfakedsmileAdoptingnewhobbiestodistractoneselfPuttingupafalsefrontasifeverythingisokayAshortenedattentionspanDifficultyfocusingHummingthatfeelsforced,orfadesquicklyafteritstartsGoingaboutone’sdailyactivitieswiththemindsomewhereelse


WRITER’S TIP: Weather details can add texture and meaning to a scene.Considerhowacharacter’smoodcanshiftbecauseof theweather.Itcanalsostandinthewayoftheirgoals,providingtension.

RECOMMENDEDREADING

TheDefinitiveBookofBodyLanguage(Allan&BarbaraPease)Characters,Emotion&Viewpoint(NancyKress)CreatingCharacterEmotion(AnnHood)TellingLies:Clues toDeceit in theMarketplace,Politics,andMarriage (PaulEkman)DearReader,If you found The Emotion Thesaurus a useful companion to your creativeprocess,we’dlovetohearaboutyourexperience.HonestreviewsonGoodreads,AmazonandBarnes&Noblearealwaysappreciated.AndifyouwouldliketoexploresomeoftheotherDescriptiveThesaurusCollectionswehavecreatedforwriters,pleasevisitusatTheBookshelfMuse.

Happywriting!

Angela&Becca

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13554235-the-emotion-thesaurus

http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-eBooks/b/ref=sa_menu_kbo7?ie=UTF8&node=1286228011

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/

http://thebookshelfmuse.blogspot.ca/

TableofContentsTITLEPAGEABOUTTHEAUTHORSACKNOWLEDGEMENTSTABLEOFCONTENTSINTRODUCTIONWRITINGNONVERBALEMOTION:AVOIDINGCOMMONPROBLEMSUSINGTHEEMOTIONTHESAURUSTHEEMOTIONTHESAURUSADORATIONAGITATIONAMAZEMENTAMUSEMENTANGERANGUISHANNOYANCEANTICIPATIONANXIETYCONFIDENCECONFLICTEDCONFUSIONCONTEMPTCURIOSITYDEFEATDEFENSIVENESSDENIALDEPRESSIONDESIREDESPERATIONDETERMINATIONDISAPPOINTMENTDISBELIEFDISGUSTDOUBTDREADEAGERNESS

ELATIONEMBARRASSMENTENVYEXCITEMENTFEARFRUSTRATIONGRATITUDEGUILTHAPPINESSHATREDHOPEFULNESSHUMILIATIONHURTIMPATIENCEINDIFFERENCEINSECURITYIRRITATIONJEALOUSYLONELINESSLOVENERVOUSNESSNOSTALGIAOVERWHELMEDPARANOIAPEACEFULNESSPRIDERAGEREGRETRELIEFRELUCTANCEREMORSERESENTMENTRESIGNATIONSADNESSSATISFACTIONSCORNSHAMESKEPTICISMSMUGNESS

SOMBERNESSSURPRISE/SHOCKSUSPICIONSYMPATHYTERRORUNCERTAINTYUNEASEWARINESSWORRYRECOMMENDEDREADING

The Emotion Thesaurus: A Writer's Guide To Character Expression

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