description of fog for creative writing

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fog - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing

a rainy day
cloud forest
Disorientation
hide in plain sight
lighthouses
pink clouds
sensory fog
storm clouds
transpiration

With a dance of fog, a twirl of mist, the dreaming cocoon rests all around.

The fog comes as natures gentle hand to once more give nature a chance to return into view after her graceful repose.

There are days the world comes to full colour from the night, from the greys under the moon to every colour of the rainbow and more. Today we have the fog, and so as it warms up the world will be born from this whiteness, as if it were art appearing on a three dimensional canvass.

The fog comes as softest white to embrace all, to make it a cocoon until the heat returns and the colours of nature are ready to flutter once more.

When the world becomes a new brilliant white page, as if nine clouds had kissed the earth, the fog only awaits the sun to unveil the scene upon its own perfect timing.

Today the clouds sit upon the earth, as if they decided the heavens were down here instead. So I walk on the grass, flying as high as the birds, seeing only white.

The trees are veiled in the lightest of mists, their trunks sombre brown with sable cracks that gnarl the bark. As my eye travels to the edge of the woodland they become silhouettes against a blanket of white, as if it is only daylight where I stand, as if I am encircled by twilight.

In the fog the city is blurred like an old painting; it could be a great work drawn by expert hand. The buildings and the Japanese cherry trees are silhouetted black, two-dimensional. The streets yawn in every direction with only the old newspaper dispensers and street-lamps to break the view between buildings so high that the tops disappear in the swirling white. It doesn't smell right at all, in fact it smells of nothing but the damp trees not yet in bloom. Without the fumes of the traffic its odour is as fresh as any meadow without tincture of grass. Jenna's footsteps echoed like stones off a cave wall. She wanted to melt onto the darkness but what was the point? This place had been abandoned long ago, other than the odd roosting birds, she had the only beating heart in many square miles of concrete.

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Conjunctions
Prepositions

Describing Fog: Synonyms & Examples

As a lover of nature and all its mysterious wonders, I have always been captivated by the ethereal beauty of fog. The way it envelops everything in its gentle embrace, creating an air of mystique and intrigue. But how do you describe something as intangible as fog? Well, fear not, for I have compiled a list of adjectives that will help you paint a vivid picture of this atmospheric phenomenon.

When it comes to describing fog, the possibilities are endless. From the thick and impenetrable to the wispy and elusive, there is a wide range of adjectives that can capture the essence of this natural marvel. Whether you’re a writer looking to add depth to your descriptions or simply a curious soul seeking to expand your vocabulary, these adjectives will surely come in handy. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of adjectives for fog and explore the enchanting realm of mist and haze.

Table of Contents

How to Describe fog? – Different Scenarios

When it comes to describing fog, there are endless possibilities. The ethereal nature of fog lends itself to a wide range of adjectives that can bring depth and richness to your descriptions. Whether you’re writing a captivating story or trying to create a vivid picture in your readers’ minds, here are some adjectives to help you describe fog in different scenarios:

Thick : Picture fog so dense that it seems to swallow everything in its path. It engulfs the landscape, obscuring even the closest objects from view. It’s like being surrounded by a wall of mist.
Immersive : Imagine being enveloped in fog, as if you’re walking through a cloud. It’s an experience that can make you feel lost or disconnected from the world around you. You can’t see more than a few feet in front of you, and the air feels damp and cool against your skin.
Mysterious : Fog has a way of transforming the familiar into something strange and otherworldly. It shrouds the landscape in an air of mystery, making even the simplest objects appear eerie and unknown. It’s the perfect setting for a haunting or suspenseful tale.
Wispy : When fog is thin and delicate, it takes on a wispy quality. It hangs in the air like a thin veil, barely there but still present. It creates an atmosphere of tranquility, almost like walking through a dream.
Evasive : Sometimes, fog seems to play tricks on us. It moves and shifts, making it difficult to pin down its exact location. It’s elusive and unpredictable, appearing and disappearing as if it has a mind of its own.

Remember, these are just a few examples of how you can describe fog in different scenarios. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with your descriptions. Use vivid language and sensory details to transport your readers into the misty world of fog. Happy writing!

Describing Words for fog in English

Fog, with its ethereal beauty, is a phenomenon that captivates the senses. Describing fog using the right adjectives allows us to paint a vivid picture and transport our readers into the misty world. Here are some adjectives that perfectly capture the essence of fog:

Thick : When fog is dense and impenetrable, it engulfs everything in its path, creating an eerie atmosphere. It’s like walking through a mystical blanket of gray.
Mysterious : Fog can transform the familiar into something unknown and foreboding. It shrouds objects in a veil of secrecy, leaving us to wonder what lies beyond its misty embrace.
Wispy : Occasionally, fog takes on a delicate and ethereal quality. It becomes wispy, like a fairy’s breath, gently floating and creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Evasive : Fog has a way of appearing and disappearing unpredictably, making it elusive and hard to grasp. It adds an element of surprise and intrigue, keeping us on our toes.
Enveloping : Fog wraps its tendrils around everything, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. It creates a cocoon-like effect, making us feel both protected and disoriented.
Silent : Fog brings with it a sense of stillness and tranquility. It muffles sounds and creates an atmosphere of peaceful serenity, as if the world is holding its breath.

Remember, when describing fog, it’s important to use sensory details and vivid language to fully immerse your readers in the misty realm. Use these adjectives as a starting point to spark your creativity and transport your readers into a world veiled in fog.

Examples of Adjectives for Fog

Remember, captivating your readers means using descriptive words effectively. So, let your creativity flow, and use these adjectives to bring your fog-filled scenes to life.

Adjectives for fog

Positive adjectives for fog with 12 example sentences.

Fog can be a fascinating weather phenomenon, creating a mysterious ambiance wherever it appears. Here are some positive adjectives that can be used to describe the alluring qualities of fog along with example sentences:

Enchanting: The enchanting fog draped the landscape in a soft, ethereal veil.
Serene: The serene fog transformed the bustling city into a tranquil oasis.
Mystical: The mystical fog held secrets of the unseen world within its misty embrace.
Dreamy: The dreamy fog blurred the boundaries between reality and imagination.
Peaceful: The peaceful fog filled the air with a soothing sense of calm.
Ethereal: The ethereal fog cast a spellbinding glow over the landscape.
Whimsical: The whimsical fog danced and twirled through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere.
Mesmerizing: The mesmerizing fog captured the attention of all who beheld its beauty.
Enigmatic: The enigmatic fog concealed the true nature of the landscape, inviting curiosity and exploration.
Tranquil: The tranquil fog enveloped the surroundings in a gentle embrace.
Soft: The soft fog whispered its presence, making the environment feel hushed and serene.
Romantic: The romantic fog set the stage for an enchanting evening stroll through the misty streets.

Negative Adjectives for fog with 5 example sentences

While fog can be enchanting, it can also have a more ominous and unsettling feel. Here are some negative adjectives that can be used to describe the eerie and unsettling aspects of fog, accompanied by example sentences:

Dismal: The dismal fog cast a gloomy shadow over the landscape, obscuring any trace of brightness.
Haunting: The haunting fog draped the area in an eerie silence, filling the air with an otherworldly presence.
Foreboding: The foreboding fog gave an unnerving sense that something mysterious was about to happen.
Oppressive: The oppressive fog seemed to press down on everything, creating a suffocating atmosphere.
Disorienting: The disorienting fog made it difficult to see clearly, causing a sense of confusion and unease.

Remember, when describing fog, you have a wide range of adjectives at your disposal to convey its various moods and effects. By using vivid language, you can transport your readers into the enchanting and mysterious world of fog.

Synonyms and Antonyms with Example Sentences

Synonyms for fog.

When it comes to describing fog, there are several synonyms that can help you capture its ethereal beauty and mysterious nature. Here are some words you can use as alternatives to “fog”:

Mist : A light, thin fog that gives the atmosphere a hazy appearance.
Haze : A slight fog that obscures visibility but is not as dense as traditional fog.
Smog : A combination of fog and air pollutants that often occurs in heavily industrialized areas.
Vaporous : Describes fog that appears to be made of mist or vapor.
Murk : A thick fog that creates a dark, gloomy atmosphere.
Opalescence : Used to describe fog that displays a shifting range of colors.
Obscuration : Refers to fog that prevents clear visibility of objects or landscape features.
Clammy : Describes a damp and sticky fog that leaves a cold and moist feeling.

Here are some example sentences to help you understand how to use these synonyms:

I walked through the dense mist, feeling as if I had entered a different world.
The city was enveloped in a thick haze, creating an eerie and surreal atmosphere.
The smog blanketed the entire town, making it difficult to see even a few feet ahead.
As I looked out the window, I saw the vaporous fog slowly roll in from the sea.
The forest was shrouded in a murk that made it impossible to see more than a few steps ahead.
The opalescent fog transformed the landscape into a mesmerizing and otherworldly scene.
The obscuration caused by the fog made it challenging to navigate through the city streets.
I wrapped myself in a warm jacket to protect against the clammy fog that hung in the air.

Antonyms for Fog

While fog can create an enchanting and mysterious atmosphere, there are times when you may want to describe clear and unobstructed weather conditions. Here are some antonyms for “fog”:

Clear : Describes the absence of fog, with a sky that allows for a high level of visibility.
Sunny : Indicates a bright and clear day without any fog or haze.
Bright : Refers to a well-lit environment with no foggy or misty conditions.
Transparent : Describes a situation where there is no fog blocking the view.
Luminous : Indicates a radiant and well-lit environment with no foggy obstructions.

Here are example sentences demonstrating the use of these antonyms:

The fog lifted, revealing a clear blue sky and a beautiful view of the mountains.
We enjoyed a sunny day at the beach, with no sign of fog in sight.
The bright morning allowed us to see the city in all its glory, with no trace of fog.
The transparent windows offered an unobstructed view of the cityscape, unaffected by fog.
As the fog dissipated, the luminous landscape brightened, revealing its natural beauty.

By incorporating these synonyms and antonyms into your writing, you can effectively describe the captivating qualities of fog or contrast it with clear conditions.

In this article, we have explored the enchanting world of fog and discovered a plethora of adjectives that can be used to describe its ethereal beauty. From mist and haze to smog and vaporous, these words paint a vivid picture of the atmospheric phenomenon. We have also explored antonyms such as clear, sunny, and bright, which can be used to contrast fog with clear conditions.

By incorporating these descriptive words into our writing, we can effectively convey the unique qualities of fog and create a captivating atmosphere for our readers. Whether we want to transport them to a mysterious, opalescent landscape or contrast the gloominess of fog with the brightness of a sunny day, these adjectives provide us with the tools to do so.

So, the next time you find yourself gazing at the foggy horizon, remember the power of words to capture its essence. Let your writing come alive with the descriptive magic of these adjectives, and watch as your readers are transported into the misty realm of imagination.

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The Emotion Amplifier Thesaurus , a companion to The Emotion Thesaurus , releases May 13th.

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WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

Helping writers become bestselling authors

Weather Thesaurus Entry: Mist or Fog

April 27, 2011 by BECCA PUGLISI

WEATHER is an important element in any setting, providing sensory texture and contributing to the mood the writer wishes to create in a scene. With a deft touch, weather can enhance the character’s emotional response to a specific location, it can add conflict, and it can also (lightly) foreshadow coming events.

However, caution must accompany this entry: the weather should not be used as a window into a character’s soul. The weather can add invisible pressure for the character, it can layer the SCENE with symbolism, it can carefully hint at the internal landscape, but it must never OVERTLY TELL emotion. Such a heavy-handed approach results in weather cliches and melodrama (a storm raging above a bloody battle, a broken-hearted girl crying in the rain).

SENSORY DESCRIPTORS:

Sight: Hazy whiteness & curls of smoky air currents that obscure surroundings and make distances difficult to fathom. Fog is denser than mist, and visibility is reduced…

Smell: Damp, picks up the scent of brine and algae near water sources, earthy scents (soil, pine, greenery) in natural areas and urban scents in cities…

Taste: No taste, but breath would be moist in nature. It may carry a briny tang if near a water source.

Sound: No sound in itself, but in natural environments, animals would be less likely to make movement/noise for fear of predators they could not see, causing an ‘unnatural quiet’. A lack of a breeze contributes to this, causing sound to not carry or seem muffled.

Touch: A cold, dewy sensation against the skin . With little to no air movement, the moist air will cling to hair and clothing, weighing both down and casing water droplets to form during prolonged…

EMOTIONAL TRIGGERS:

Mood: By nature, mist and fog obscures and hides. It causes an atmosphere of mystery and uncertainty, and if danger (real or perceived) is present, it can ratchet up fear. Characters rely on sight more so than anything else, so the visibility restrictions, combined with the unpleasant feeling of cold and damp…

Symbolism: Doom, danger, mystery, confusion…

Possible Cliches: Mist and fog used in dreams to imply repressed memory or knowledge…

Don’t be afraid to use the weather to add contrast. Unusual pairings, especially when drawing attention to the Character’s emotions, is a powerful trigger for conflict. Consider how the bleak mood of a character is even more noticeable as morning sunlight dances across the crystals of fresh snow on the walk to work. Or how the feeling of betrayal is so much more poignant on a hot summer day. Likewise, success or joy can be hampered by a cutting wind or drizzling sleet, foreshadowing conflict to come.

Weather is a powerful tool, helping to foreshadow events and steer the emotional mood of any scene.

Need more detail regarding this weather element? Good news! This thesaurus has been integrated into our new online library at One Stop For Writers . There, not only has the information in each entry been enhanced and expanded, we’ve also added scenarios for adding conflict and tension. The entire thesaurus is also cross-referenced with our many other descriptive collections for easy searchability. Registration is free , so if you’re interested in seeing a sampling of the fully updated Weather and Earthly Phenomenon Thesaurus, head on over to One Stop.

Becca Puglisi is an international speaker, writing coach, and bestselling author of The Emotion Thesaurus and its sequels. Her books are available in five languages, are sourced by US universities, and are used by novelists, screenwriters, editors, and psychologists around the world. She is passionate about learning and sharing her knowledge with others through her Writers Helping Writers blog and via One Stop For Writers —a powerhouse online library created to help writers elevate their storytelling.

Reader Interactions

April 30, 2011 at 10:44 pm

yay! This is exaclty what I needed right now!

April 29, 2011 at 6:05 pm

I love me some creepy fog in a book! Even if it’s a bit too direct. 🙂 Awesome, guys!

April 29, 2011 at 7:21 am

I love these settings. It reminds me of Stephen King’s “The Mist,” or the fog movies. Right up my storylines…

April 28, 2011 at 8:57 pm

This is timely, thanks! It also reflects some of our local weather lately. 😛 Happy weekend, Karen

April 28, 2011 at 8:37 am

Awesome job as always. We frequently get early morning fog from the Bow river since it’s not far from my house. It no longer has that cliched eerie feeling. 😉

April 28, 2011 at 8:10 am

I’m loving this thesaurus. Nicely done, Angela.

April 28, 2011 at 6:54 am

A wonderful post. Very in depth and useful.

With mist and fog there is the opportunity to be very cliched. But when used properly it can bring about an amazing atmosphere.

April 28, 2011 at 5:55 am

You guys are awesome. Loved the post. I seldom add the weather, just a mention of a drizzle or cold winds or a sunny day. Your post is tempting me to go more into weather details.

April 27, 2011 at 10:56 pm

I love cold weather, rain, etc. So I am a big mist/fog fan 🙂

April 27, 2011 at 9:04 pm

Once again I see what my settings are lacking… a good snow storm, or the gloom of the fog, or the chill of an autumn breeze.

April 27, 2011 at 3:43 pm

This entry was very timely! I’ll be using it soon, thanks!

P.S. If a book of mine ever see the light of the day, look for acknowledges there 🙂

– EEV

April 27, 2011 at 12:42 pm

We actually had a little fog yesterday morning, a nice momentary respite from the dry.

April 27, 2011 at 12:02 pm

Such an excellent post! Thanks, girls!

April 27, 2011 at 11:55 am

Girls, I must tell you…I’ve been revising these past few weeks, and when I needed to show emotion a different way, I came here. Truly, you guys are amazing. Thanks for all these amazing posts.

April 27, 2011 at 10:52 am

So many people think weather is a cheap way to set a scene. If it’s used correctly, it works pretty stinkin’ well, though. Awesome post.

And speaking of weather, I wish it would stop raining…*Glares at sky.*

April 27, 2011 at 10:25 am

As always, this is a great post. I could spend all day on your blog and still have so much to learn. I’ve never really thought about weather beyond…setting. Foreshadowing and the actual physicality of it…I can recognize it when I read other’s writing, but I don’t think about putting it into my own so much.

I’m going to have to change that outlook.

April 27, 2011 at 9:53 am

Thanks guys! Whoops, guess I slotted this a day early in one of my pre-cofffee fogs, so I guess that’s appropriate, considering the topic! LOL

April 27, 2011 at 9:43 am

I absolutely love what fog does to sound. The way you can hear a whisper from a hundred yards away as if it were right next to you, and then the next moment you can’t hear your own breath.

April 27, 2011 at 8:58 am

Thanks for this post. You make an important point. I’d call what you’re describing “physical atmosphere,” and it does make a huge difference to acknowledge it in a scene. I find that, besides the foreshadowing you mention, a particular atmosphere can be a great motivator for a character’s behavior. Who isn’t a bit grouchier when it’s hot and humid? http://bit.ly/hS0pEA

[…] Mist or Fog […]

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101 Words To Describe Weather

Writers know that using the weather in their descriptions is a great way to make stories more relatable. Use this comprehensive list of words that describe weather when you write.

Writers Write is a resource for writers and we have written about words that describe taste , smell , sound , and touch in previous posts. (We even have one for words that describe colours .) In this post, I have included words that describe weather.

Weather is a wonderful tool for writers. We can use it to foreshadow , create a mood , complicate a plot , show a character , and increase or decrease the pace of a story. We can even use it as a motif .

A setting without the weather is like a character without a wardrobe.

Remember that we need to describe weather through our characters’ interactions with their environments. We should not describe it like a weather report. You could show how cold it is by the clothes they choose to wear or mention the weather in dialogue.

Whatever you do, don’t leave it out. There are unintended consequences to a lack of setting , including a static character, a lack of atmosphere, an inability for the reader to relate to the place and time in the story, and a lack of details.

What Is Weather?

According to Oxford it is ‘the state of the atmosphere at a particular place and time as regards heat, cloudiness, dryness, sunshine, wind, rain, etc.’

Words To Describe Weather

General words describing weather.

climate – the type of weather that a country or region has
climate change – changes in the earth’s weather, including changes in temperature, wind patterns and rainfall, especially the increase in the temperature of the earth’s atmosphere that is caused by the increase of particular gases, especially carbon dioxide
meteorology – the scientific study of weather
seasonal – suitable or typical of the time of year it is now
spell – a period when there is a particular type of weather
weather forecast – a report on likely weather conditions for a period of time in the future
zone – one of the large areas that the world is divided into according to its temperature

Words Describing Warm Weather

balmy – warm and pleasant
blistering – extremely hot in a way that is uncomfortable
dog days – the hottest days of the year
heatwave – a continuous period of very hot weather, especially when this is unusual
Indian summer – a period of warm weather in autumn
scorcher – an extremely hot day
sunny – not stormy or cloudy
thaw – ice and snow turns into water
the heat – very hot weather
tropical – like weather near the equator, climate that is frost-free

Words Describing Cold Weather

bleak – very cold and grey
biting – so cold that it makes you feel uncomfortable
brisk – fairly cold and a fairly strong wind is blowing
crisp – cold and dry
fresh – fairly cold and the wind is blowing
frosty – cold enough to produce frost
hard – a very cold winter
harsh – extremely cold and unpleasant
icy – very cold, like ice
raw – cold and unpleasant
snowy – covered with snow

Words Describing Pleasant Weather

calm – very little wind
clear – no clouds, rain, etc.
clement – pleasant because it is neither very hot nor very cold
cloudless – no clouds in the sky
equable – does not change very much
fair – pleasant and not raining
fine – sunny and not raining
pleasant – dry and neither very hot nor very cold
still – without wind
temperate – a temperate climate or region is never extremely hot or extremely cold
windless – without any wind

Words To Describe Unpleasant Weather

bone-dry – completely without water or moisture
fierce – very strong or severe
foul – unpleasant, with rain, snow, or wind
gale-force – an extremely strong wind
gusty – the wind blowing in gusts
humid – hot and wet in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable
muggy – warm in an unpleasant way because the air feels wet
murky – dark and unpleasant because of fog, clouds, etc.
severe – extremely unpleasant and likely to cause harm or damage
sultry – the air is hot and slightly wet
threatening – clouds, skies, or seas show that the weather is likely to be bad
torrential – rain falling in large amounts
unseasonable – not the type of weather that you expect in a particular season
windy – with a lot of wind

Words To Describe Wet & Cloudy Weather

bank – a large mass of cloud or fog
billow – a cloud that rises and moves in a large mass
blizzard – a snowstorm with very strong winds
cirrocumulus – small round clouds that form lines high in the sky
cirrostratus – a thin layer of cloud found very high in the sky
cirrus – a type of thin cloud found very high in the sky
cloudy – full of clouds
column – something that rises up into the air in a straight line
cumulonimbus – a mass of very tall thick cloud that usually brings rain and sometimes thunder
cumulus – a large low white cloud that is round at the top and flat at the bottom
dull – when there are a lot of clouds and it is rather dark
fog – a thick cloud that forms close to the ground or to water and is difficult to see through (fog is thicker than mist)
fogbound – not able to operate normally because of thick fog
foggy – full of fog or covered with fog
gather – if clouds gather, they start to appear and cover part of the sky
grey – when it is not very bright, because there is a lot of cloud
hurricane – a violent storm with very strong winds
inclement – unpleasantly cold or wet
lower – if clouds lower, they are very dark, as if a storm is coming
mist – small drops of liquid in the air
misty – lots of mist in the air
nimbus – a dark grey rain cloud
overcast – a sky completely full of clouds
pall – cloud that covers an area and makes it darker
pea souper – thick low cloud that prevents you from seeing anything
scud – clouds moving quickly
sea mist – a thin low cloud that comes onto the land from the sea
steam- the wet substance that forms on windows and mirrors when wet air suddenly becomes hot or cold
storm cloud – a very dark cloud
squall – a sudden violent gust of wind or localized storm, especially one bringing rain, snow, or sleet.
thundercloud – a storm cloud producing thunder
tsunami – an extremely large wave in the sea
typhoon – a violent tropical storm with very strong winds
vapour – very small drops of water or other liquids in the air that make the air feel wet
vog – smog that contains dust and gas from volcanoes

Words To Describe Changes In Weather

break – if the weather breaks, it changes unexpectedly, and usually becomes worse
break through – if the sun breaks through the clouds, it appears from behind them
brighten up – if the weather brightens up, it becomes sunnier
clear up – if the weather clears up, the clouds or rain go away
close in – if the weather closes in, it becomes unpleasant
cloud – to become darker because grey clouds are forming in the sky
ease – if bad weather such as wind or rain eases, it becomes less strong
fickle – weather that is fickle changes often and unexpectedly
lift – if something such as cloud or fog lifts, the weather improves and you can see clearly again
melt away – if ice or snow melts away, it changes into water as it gets warmer
thaw – if the weather thaws, it becomes warmer and causes ice or snow to change into liquid
track – if weather tracks in a particular direction, it moves in that direction

The Last Word

I hope these words that describe weather help you with your writing.

If you’re looking for help with describing setting, buy our Setting Up The Setting Workbook .

1 thought on “101 Words To Describe Weather”

And nowadays there’s also Pyrocumulonimbus.

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How to Describe the Wind in Writing (100 Words + Examples)

It can be a bit tricky to find the right words or phrases to make your readers see and feel the wind.

Here is how to describe the wind in writing:

Describe the wind in writing by using sensory language to evoke its force, sound, temperature, effect, direction, time of day, and personified traits. Each description should enhance the narrative, helping to set the scene, build atmosphere, and engage the reader.

In this guide, we’ll discuss all the different ways to describe wind based on its force, sound, speed, and more.

Describing Wind by Its Force

Cartoon sun and wind - How to describe the wind in writing

Table of Contents

The force of the wind can dramatically change the perception of a scene.

The contrast between a gentle breeze and a violent gale is not just a measure of intensity.

But can also signify changing moods, symbolize emotional shifts, or foreshadow significant events.

Here is how to do it:

Gentle : A gentle wind softly touches, a delicate interaction with the environment. Example: “The gentle wind caressed the petals of the blooming flowers, their fragrance subtly wafting in the air.”
Light : A light breeze is almost playful, just strong enough to stir the leaves. Example: “A light wind tugged at her hair as she sat by the river, the tranquil scene filling her with peace.”
Calm : A calm wind denotes tranquility and serenity, ideal for peaceful settings. Example: “The calm wind moved lazily through the tall grass, making it sway like waves in a calm sea.”
Whispering : A whispering wind is quiet, giving a sense of intimacy and closeness. Example: “The whispering wind carried the melody of the distant lullaby, lulling the town to sleep.”
Soothing : A soothing wind provides relief or comfort. Example: “The soothing wind was a balm against the harsh summer heat, its gentle caress reviving his spirits.”
Blustery : A blustery wind is strong and cold, often associated with the autumn and winter months. Example: “The blustery wind cut through his jacket, making him shiver as he trod the leaf-strewn path.”
Howling : A howling wind is fierce, invoking images of storms or tempests. Example: “The howling wind made the old house creak ominously, its eerie tune setting the mood for the night.”
Fierce : A fierce wind indicates a wild and uncontrolled force. Example: “The fierce wind shook the window panes, a testament to the storm’s power.”
Wild : Wild wind suggests a sense of chaos and lack of control. Example: “The wild wind tossed the ship like a toy, waves crashing over the deck.”
Gusty : Gusty winds are strong and sudden, capable of causing brief moments of disarray. Example: “The gusty wind snatched the papers from his hands, scattering them in every direction.”

Describing Wind by Its Sound

The sound of the wind is often used to set the atmosphere of a scene.

From the silent rustling of leaves to the ominous howling in a storm, the sonic quality of wind can bring your writing to life.

Soft : A soft wind might be barely audible, adding a sense of tranquility. Example: “The soft rustle of the wind through the trees was a soothing backdrop to their quiet conversation.”
Hushed : A hushed wind is a secret whisper, barely noticeable. Example: “A hushed breeze stirred the silent forest, the only sign of life in the deep wilderness.”
Silent : A silent wind might not make any sound, but its effects can be seen or felt. Example: “The silent wind danced with the dunes, shifting the desert landscape as if alive.”
Quiet : A quiet wind does not overpower other sounds, acting as a subtle background note. Example: “The quiet wind murmured through the leaves, a soft accompaniment to the chorus of singing birds.”
Noisy : A noisy wind is boisterous, drawing attention to its presence. Example: “The noisy wind rustled the newspapers, alerting the alley cat of someone’s approach.”
Roaring : A roaring wind has a deep, loud sound, often associated with storms or extreme weather. Example: “The roaring wind was deafening, drowning out all other sounds.”
Screaming : A screaming wind gives the impression of high intensity or danger. Example: “The wind screamed around them, a chilling prelude to the approaching hurricane.”
Howling : A howling wind is loud and sorrowful, invoking a sense of loneliness or fear. Example: “The howling wind seemed to voice the loneliness of the old mansion, its chilling song echoing in the empty rooms.”
Whistling : A whistling wind creates high-pitched sounds as it passes through narrow spaces. Example: “The wind whistled through the bare branches, a lonely melody in the frigid winter air.”
Moaning : A moaning wind can suggest discomfort or eeriness. Example: “The wind moaned through the ruined tower, its ghostly sighs stirring tales of lost battles and ancient sorrows.”

Describing Wind by Its Speed

The speed of the wind can influence the rhythm and pacing of your writing.

Slow winds might suggest a leisurely pace, while fast winds can bring energy and excitement.

Slow : A slow wind suggests a relaxed or languid mood. Example: “The slow wind moved lazily across the field, the daisies bending and swaying in a slow dance.”
Lazy : A lazy wind has a lackadaisical quality, perfect for a calm, sunny afternoon. Example: “A lazy wind drifted through the orchard, the scent of ripe apples carried in its wake.”
Languid : A languid wind is slow and relaxed, hinting at tranquility and leisure. Example: “The languid breeze that wafted from the sea brought a sense of calm and serenity.”
Meandering : A meandering wind takes its time, as though it’s enjoying the journey rather than rushing towards a destination. Example: “The meandering wind played amidst the autumn leaves, carrying them on a leisurely dance.”
Drifting : A drifting wind is unhurried and aimless, adding a dreamlike quality to the scene. Example: “The drifting wind carried the scent of lilacs, its sweet perfume invoking memories of past summers.”
Fast : A fast wind is full of energy, ideal for scenes of action or urgency. Example: “The fast wind whipped her hair around her face as she raced down the hill.”
Quick : A quick wind might signal an abrupt change or a breathless moment. Example: “The quick wind brought the first hint of the storm, the air suddenly heavy with tension.”
Swift : A swift wind brings movement and flow to the scene, emphasizing speed and motion. Example: “The swift wind carried the fallen petals, creating a blizzard of cherry blossoms.”
Rushing : A rushing wind suggests urgency or turmoil. Example: “The rushing wind tore through the narrow streets, a harbinger of the tempest to come.”
Speeding : A speeding wind signifies rapid movement and can be used to convey a sense of excitement or danger. Example: “The speeding wind roared in his ears as he plummeted towards the ground, his parachute trailing behind him.”

Describing Wind by Its Temperature

The temperature of the wind can greatly influence the overall feeling of a scene.

Whether a warm summer breeze or a frigid winter gust, the wind’s temperature can evoke a range of emotions and sensations in the reader.

Warm : A warm wind suggests comfort and the promise of balmy weather. Example: “The warm wind, heavy with the scent of blooming jasmine, hinted at the approaching summer.”
Hot : A hot wind can be oppressive, often associated with desert or drought conditions. Example: “The hot wind carried the sting of the sand, searing any exposed skin.”
Cool : A cool wind is often refreshing, a welcome relief from the heat. Example: “The cool wind that rustled the palm leaves brought momentary relief from the tropical heat.”
Cold : A cold wind might suggest discomfort or harsh weather conditions. Example: “The cold wind gnawed at their cheeks, turning them a rosy pink.”
Chilling : A chilling wind often connotes something ominous or foreboding. Example: “The chilling wind blew through the graveyard, making the mourners shiver uncontrollably.”
Icy : An icy wind is not only cold but also piercing, cutting through layers of clothing. Example: “The icy wind cut through her coat like a knife, making her shudder with cold.”
Frigid : A frigid wind can suggest extreme cold, often associated with winter or high-altitude settings. Example: “The frigid wind howled across the snow-covered mountains, stinging any exposed skin.”
Scorching : A scorching wind is intensely hot, like being in an oven or near a fire. Example: “The scorching wind was like a wall of heat, making the mere act of breathing a challenge.”
Refreshing : A refreshing wind is cool and invigorating, often associated with spring or morning breezes. Example: “The refreshing wind stirred the wildflowers, carrying their sweet scent across the meadow.”
Biting : A biting wind is harsh and painful, carrying an insinuation of discomfort or hostility. Example: “The biting wind whipped around them, making every step a battle against the elements.”

Describing Wind by Its Effects

Another way to describe the wind is by the impact it has on the surrounding environment.

This can provide a vivid, indirect way of conveying the strength or character of the wind.

Rustling : A rustling wind gently stirs leaves and grass. Example: “The rustling wind stirred up the autumn leaves, creating a colorful whirlwind.”
Whipping : A whipping wind moves with force, capable of causing disarray. Example: “The whipping wind tore at their clothes, making it hard to move forward.”
Caressing : A caressing wind moves gently, like a lover’s touch. Example: “The caressing wind played with her hair, sending shivers down her spine.”
Tugging : A tugging wind pulls at things, providing a sense of its strength. Example: “The tugging wind pulled at his hat, threatening to send it flying.”
Stirring : A stirring wind causes slight movement, especially in water or loose particles like sand or dust. Example: “The stirring wind created tiny ripples across the pond, disturbing the otherwise mirror-like surface.”
Sweeping : A sweeping wind suggests broad, fast movement over a large area. Example: “The sweeping wind cleared the fog, revealing the breathtaking vista of the valley below.”
Roaring : A roaring wind gives an impression of intensity and might. Example: “The roaring wind stripped the trees of their autumn leaves, leaving the branches bare and exposed.”
Dancing : A dancing wind moves unpredictably, swirling and changing direction. Example: “The dancing wind swirled the snowflakes into intricate patterns, as if orchestrating a ballet of the elements.”
Carrying : A carrying wind can transport scents, sounds, or smaller objects over distances. Example: “The carrying wind brought the distant sound of church bells, drifting on the air like a sacred melody.”
Buffeting : A buffeting wind strikes repeatedly and forcefully, causing everything in its path to shake or rattle. Example: “The buffeting wind rattled the old window frames, their constant clattering a testament to the storm’s fury.”

Describing Wind by Its Direction

The direction of the wind can have significant implications for your narrative, from determining the movement of clouds to hinting at changes in weather or seasons.

Here is how to describe the wind by its direction:

North : A north wind, often cold, can signify the arrival of winter or a cooling trend. Example: “The north wind carried the scent of snow, a chilling harbinger of the approaching winter.”
South : A south wind is typically warm, often suggesting the onset of spring or summer. Example: “The south wind, laden with the heady fragrance of blooming roses, heralded the arrival of a sultry summer.”
East : An east wind can be seen as bringing change or new beginnings. Example: “The east wind brought the first light of dawn, casting long shadows on the silent town.”
West : A west wind often carries the connotation of ending or closure. Example: “The west wind carried the last notes of the song, echoing the sun’s farewell as it dipped below the horizon.”
Upland : An upland wind moves uphill, suggesting effort or challenge. Example: “The upland wind whispered encouraging words in her ear as she climbed the steep hill.”
Downland : A downland wind moves downhill, hinting at ease or relaxation. Example: “The downland wind guided the fallen leaves on their journey to the valley.”
Seaward : A seaward wind moves towards the sea, often evoking a sense of longing or adventure. Example: “The seaward wind filled their sails, drawing them towards the vast, unexplored ocean.”
Landward : A landward wind moves towards land, typically associated with feelings of safety or return. Example: “The landward wind carried the familiar scent of pine and woodsmoke, a promise of home.”
Incoming : An incoming wind moves towards the observer, indicating the approach of something. Example: “The incoming wind carried the distant rumble of thunder, a stark warning of the storm’s approach.”
Outgoing : An outgoing wind moves away from the observer, often signaling departure or relief. Example: “The outgoing wind took the last traces of the forest fire, the air finally clear and breathable.”

Describing Wind by Its Time of Day

The time of day can also influence how the wind is perceived, adding an additional layer of nuance to your descriptions.

Morning : A morning wind suggests freshness and the beginning of a new day. Example: “The morning wind, cool and crisp, breathed life into the sleepy town.”
Noon : A noon wind often conveys the intensity of the midday sun. Example: “The noon wind, hot and dry, made the mirages dance on the distant horizon.”
Afternoon : An afternoon wind can signal a gradual easing of the day’s heat. Example: “The afternoon wind brought welcome relief, stirring the lethargic summer air.”
Evening : An evening wind often indicates the transition from day to night. Example: “The evening wind carried the twilight song of the birds, an enchanting serenade as day gave way to night.”
Night : A night wind is typically associated with mystery, calm, or the unknown. Example: “The night wind whispered tales of forgotten times, its hushed voice blending with the rustle of the ancient trees.”
Dawn : A dawn wind implies new beginnings or hope. Example: “The dawn wind stirred the sea into a shimmering canvas, painting the first light of day in vibrant hues of orange and gold.”
Dusk : A dusk wind carries the end of the day and the onset of the evening. Example: “The dusk wind rustled the falling leaves, echoing the sun’s farewell as it dipped below the horizon.”
Midnight : A midnight wind can evoke the depth of the night and the mysteries it holds. Example: “The midnight wind carried the eerie howls from the distance, its chilling message clear in the silent night.”
Daybreak : A daybreak wind suggests renewal or a fresh start. Example: “The daybreak wind carried the scent of dew-kissed grass, a subtle hint of the world awakening to a new day.”
Twilight : A twilight wind signifies transition or change, often bringing a sense of calm. Example: “The twilight wind stirred the lavender fields, their soothing scent bringing a serene end to the day.”

Describing Wind by Its Smell

Scents carried by the wind can help set the scene and evoke strong emotions and memories in your readers.

Here are a few ways you can describe wind by its smell:

Salt-tinged : A wind that carries the smell of the sea. Example: “A salt-tinged wind swept across the deck, instantly transporting him back to his childhood summers by the ocean.”
Pine-scented : A wind carrying the aroma of pine forests. Example: “The pine-scented wind was a refreshing balm, cleaning the city smog from her lungs.”
Smoky : A wind that carries the smell of smoke, indicating a fire. Example: “The smoky wind stung their eyes and throats, a cruel herald of the approaching wildfire.”
Floral : A wind filled with the scent of flowers. Example: “A floral wind drifted through the open window, the intoxicating perfume of the garden mingling with the crisp linen sheets.”
Dusty : A wind that carries the smell of dust or dry earth. Example: “The dusty wind was a tangible reminder of the long, parched summer.”
Rain-soaked : A wind carrying the fresh smell of rain or an approaching storm. Example: “The rain-soaked wind promised a respite from the relentless heat.”
Herb-laden : A wind filled with the smell of herbs, indicating a nearby garden or meadow. Example: “The herb-laden wind carried notes of lavender and rosemary, a comforting reminder of home.”
Citrusy : A wind carrying the zesty aroma of citrus fruits. Example: “A citrusy wind drifted from the orange groves, filling the afternoon with a tangy sweetness.”
Decaying : A wind that carries the smell of decay, indicating rot or death. Example: “The decaying wind held the grim scent of the battlefield, a chilling testament to the day’s losses.”
Spicy : A wind filled with the scent of spices, indicating a nearby marketplace or kitchen. Example: “The spicy wind was thick with the promise of delicious meals, making her stomach growl in anticipation.”

Describing Wind by Its Feeling

Describing the wind by its physical sensation on a character’s skin can help immerse the reader in the scene.

Stinging : A wind that is harsh and biting. Example: “The stinging wind battered his face, each gust like a slap of cold, wet canvas.”
Tickling : A light wind that playfully brushes against the skin. Example: “The tickling wind teased her bare arms, leaving goosebumps in its wake.”
Caressing : A gentle wind that softly touches the skin. Example: “The caressing wind was a tender lover, its soft touch bringing comfort to her weary body.”
Slapping : A strong, abrupt wind. Example: “The slapping wind caught her off guard, its sudden force nearly knocking her off her feet.”
Grazing : A gentle wind barely noticeable on the skin. Example: “The grazing wind was a soft sigh against her cheek, a barely-there touch that hinted at the storm’s retreat.”
Biting : A cold, harsh wind that feels as though it’s biting into the skin. Example: “The biting wind gnawed at his fingertips, the relentless cold seeping through his gloves.”
Scratching : A wind carrying sand or tiny debris that feels abrasive on the skin. Example: “The scratching wind was a desert beast, its sandy claws scraping against his exposed skin.”
Soothing : A wind that brings relief or comfort. Example: “The soothing wind was a welcome respite from the stifling heat, its gentle caress cooling her sunburnt skin.”
Clammy : A wind that is damp and cold. Example: “The clammy wind clung to her clothes, the damp chill seeping into her bones.”
Prickling : A wind that makes the skin tingle, often due to cold or static. Example: “The prickling wind was a ghost’s touch, its chilling caress raising goosebumps on her skin.”

Here is a video on how to describe a windy day:

How Do You Personify Wind?

Personification is a powerful literary device that gives human characteristics to non-human entities.

When it comes to the wind, personification can be an excellent tool to create vivid imagery, build atmosphere, and engage readers on a deeper level.

Consider these techniques to personify the wind:

Whispering : Giving the wind the ability to whisper can make it seem secretive or intimate. Example: “The wind whispered through the treetops, carrying secrets from one part of the forest to another.”
Laughing : A laughing wind can express joy, freedom, or mischief. Example: “The wind laughed in the open fields, playfully rustling the wildflowers as it passed.”
Singing : When the wind sings, it creates a sense of harmony or melody. Example: “The wind sang a lullaby, its soothing hum gently lulling the world to sleep.”
Mourning : A mourning wind carries an impression of sadness or loss. Example: “The wind mourned through the empty streets, a sorrowful echo of the town’s former life.”
Dancing : A dancing wind implies movement, celebration, or unpredictability. Example: “The wind danced through the autumn leaves, twirling them in a whirl of gold and red.”
Roaring : A roaring wind can depict anger, might, or wildness. Example: “The wind roared across the desolate plains, venting its fury on the barren landscape.”
Caressing : If the wind is caressing something, it gives a sense of gentleness or affection. Example: “The wind caressed the waves, leaving a trail of shimmering ripples in its wake.”
Teasing : A teasing wind suggests playfulness and lightness. Example: “The wind teased her hair, tossing it this way and that in a playful game.”
Sighing : A sighing wind can convey disappointment, relief, or resignation. Example: “The wind sighed through the abandoned corridors, echoing the despair left behind.”
Chasing : A chasing wind implies speed, pursuit, or play. Example: “The wind chased the fallen leaves, their rustling flight a merry chase across the park.”

Final Thoughts: How to Describe the Wind in Writing

When you describe wind in your story, try to link your description to the plot, theme, characters, and specific scene.

Everything should tie into the same knotted storyline.

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How to Use Weather in Creative Writing

If you are a bit hesitant to use weather in your writing , you’re not alone. After all, there’s a fine line between using weather as a setting tool and turning your work into a melodrama riddled with clichés. But avoiding weather altogether is a mistake all on its own.

The weather plays a significant role in creative writing. Not only can it be used in all kinds of atmospheric descriptions and to move the plot forward, but it also sets the tone, foreshadows upcoming events, and can portray emotion within the story.

If weather feels like a recipe for disaster, you might not be utilizing it right. Not to worry! Below, we will show exactly how you should be using weather in your creative writing so you can add that extra bit of “umpf” to your story.

Use Weather to Set the Scene

One of the easiest and most natural ways to use weather is to set the scene. This is also where a lot of writers mess up.

Now, we’re not saying you should give your reader a full weather report at the beginning of a scene. Not only is that boring and unnecessary, but it delays the story and can pull a reader from immersion. However, if you don’t mention the weather at all, an essential element will be missing from your writing. Weather is a great way to create mood and drive the plot , and it allows readers to visualize and feel the world you’re creating.

Weather as Setting

When it comes to creative writing , the weather is a crucial part of the setting. It plays a big role in allowing the reader to immerse themselves into the world you are creating.

For example, imagine that a town was described by a character as “wet and dreary 365 days a year.” Now imagine that the writer only gave details of the architecture, food, and people in the town. It would feel like something was missing.

You might be waiting for the mention of the clouds in the sky or the wetness in the air, whether that be rain or fog. Maybe the town is by the ocean? Something to show you why the town is considered wet.

Avoid weather in your writing can leave the reader asking questions and pull them away from the story.

Creating Mood with Weather

The weather you choose and the way you describe it can completely set the mood of a scene.

Let’s say you have three friends standing side-by-side with a long road ahead of them. Now let’s add some weather:

Storm clouds are in the distance: This could symbolize or foreshadow trouble ahead. Readers would expect to see many obstacles.
Light snow is falling: Their journey could be a cleansing of sorts or the end of something. Snow also has a quietness and softness to it.
The sun is high on a spring day: This often creates an uplifting mood. Spring typically symbolizes hope and new birth, while sunshine tends to make people feel happy.

Even though the scene is pretty much the same, changing the weather can give it a completely different feel and change a reader’s expectations of the story .

Using Weather as a Plot Device

Most of us, if not all, have seen or know of the movie Twister. If you aren’t sure what that is, Twister is a 90s film about a large tornado and a team of storm chasers who create an advanced weather alert system. Even if you haven’t seen the movie , it’s fairly obvious that this story wouldn’t be much without the use of weather.

However, the weather doesn’t have to be the star to be used as a plot device. Even the most ordinary weather can drive the plot of a story.

A hot summer day and broken air conditioner could be the driving factor that makes your character leave home on a particular day.
Light snow at the beginning of winter could be the one thing that two characters bond over.
Rain can spoil an outdoor gathering, sparking drama among attendees.

Weather as a plot device can be subtle or dramatic, as long as it’s moving the story forward somehow. If it’s not, then you’ve got some work to do.

Use Weather Descriptions Sparingly

Decide how weather can be used in your story , and then think about how much time to spend on it.

Remember, your reader doesn’t want a weather report. Typing out a well-written sentence or two is enough you convey what you are trying to say about the weather without letting it drag on.

However, if the weather is a key point in that scene (like Twister ), make it count. Make the storm seem like an experience your readers won’t forget. This can be made even more powerful by keeping other weather descriptions small.

Scattering descriptions throughout a scene is a great way to utilize weather without overdoing it.

Your character notices the scorched pines on the evergreen trees. (This could be the sign of an extremely hot summer.)
Your character’s hair sticks to the back of their neck. (This is a sign of heat and humidity.)
Two characters have a hard time hearing each other over the sound of raindrops.

Add your weather descriptions in as your characters interact with the world. This will also help if you struggle with telling instead of showing.

Avoid Clichés or Rework Them

Weather is a great way to convey emotion in a scene but be careful to avoid clichés. We’ve all seen the gloomy funeral rainstorm, the lightning strike just as the hero delivers the final blow, and the cloudless sunny day at the park.

While these are all fine, they mirror what the character is supposed to be feeling instead of diving into that character’s emotions. So, instead of mirroring, show how the character reacts to the weather. That way, even if you feel drawn to use a cliché weather scene, you have the opportunity to rework it and make it your own.

For example, if you like the idea of the rainy funeral, maybe your main character smiles as the rain hits her skin because it reminds her of a fond memory of the deceased. This allows you to use that scene while making it a little less cliché and gives your readers more insight into the character.

Final Thoughts

Using weather is a great way to spice up your writing . It can change moods and propel the story . So don’t be afraid to take advantage of this while you’re creating your world! However, remember that while the weather may have a huge effect , it doesn’t need to be seen too frequently and can easily become boring and overdone.

Writers in the Storm

A blog about writing.

Power Your Fiction: Using Weather To Create Mood, Not Clichés

Angela Ackerman

Are you afraid of using the weather in your writing? If so, you're not alone. After all, if not careful, weather description can be a minefield of clichés. The sunny, cloudless afternoon at the beach. The gloomy rainstorm at a funeral. Overdone setting and weather pairings can lie flat on the page.

Then there's the danger that comes with using weather to mirror a character’s inner emotional landscape. Mishandling this technique can quickly create melodrama. We've all read a battle scene where lightning crackles as our protagonist leaps forward to hack down his foe in desperation. And how about that turbulent teen breakup where the character's tears mix with falling rain? Unfortunately these have been used so much that most readers tilt their head and think, Really? when they read a description like this.

Wow, weather sounds like a recipe for disaster, doesn't it? It’s no wonder that some writers are so nervous about using it they cut it from their manuscript. But here’s the thing… avoiding weather in fiction can be a fatal mistake.

Make Weather Your Friend

Weather is rich. Powerful. It is infused with symbolism and meaning. And most of all, weather is important to us as people. We interact with it each day. It affects us in many subtle ways. In fact, let’s test this by walking in a character’s shoes.

Think about walking down a street. It’s late afternoon, crystal bright, and a hot breeze blows against you. School’s out and kids run willy-nilly down the sidewalk, laughter ringing the air as they race to the corner store for a grape slush. Your sandals click against the pavement as you turn down between two brick buildings. The side door to an Italian restaurant is just past a rusty dumpster, and your fiancée’s shift is about to end. You smile, feeling light. You can’t wait to see him.

Now, let’s change the scene.

It’s sunset, and the weather has soured. Dark clouds pack the sky, creating a churning knot of cement above you. The sidewalk is deserted, and the wind is edged in cold, slapping your dress against your legs as you walk. You wish you’d worn pants, wish you’d brought a sweater. In the alley, garbage scrapes against the greasy pavement and the restaurant’s dumpster has been swallowed by thick shadow. The side door is only a few steps away. You can’t quite see it, and while all you have to do is cross the distance and knock, you hesitate, eyeing the darkness.

The same setting, the same event. Yet, the mood and tone shifted, all because of the weather I included in the backdrop. What was safe and bright and clean became dark and alien. This the power of weather--changing how people feel about their surroundings.

Steering Your Reader's Emotions

Readers bring the real world with them when they enter a story. Avoiding weather description will be noticed as it's such a natural part of the everyday, and it becomes a missed opportunity to steer how our readers feel.

Weather is a tool to evoke mood, guiding the character toward the emotions we want them to feel, and by extension, the reader as well. By tuning into specific weather conditions, a character may feel safe, or off balance. Weather can work for or against the character, creating conflict, tension, and be used to foreshadow, hinting that something is about to happen.

Because we have all experienced different types of weather ourselves, when we read about it within a scene, it reminds us of our own past, and the emotions we felt at the time. So, not only does weather add a large element of mood to the setting, it also encourages readers to identify with the character’s experience on a personal level.

So how do we write weather in a clear way, and stay away from the pitfalls?

Use Fresh, Sensory Images. In each passage, I utilized several senses to describe the effects of the weather. A hot breeze. Garbage scraping against the greasy pavement. A wind edged in cold, slapping against the legs. By describing weather by sound, touch and sight, I was able to make the scene feel real.

Avoid Direct Emotion-to-Weather Clichés. There are some pairings we should avoid as I mentioned above, and with so many different types of weather elements we really need to think past the usual ones. Avoid mirroring and instead show the character’s reaction to the weather. This is a stronger way to indicate their emotions without being too direct.

Choose Each Setting With Care. Setting and Weather should work together, either through contrast or comparison. In the first scene, we have beautiful weather and an alley as a final destination. These two are contrasts—one desirable, one not, but I chose to show enthusiasm and anticipation for the meeting to win out. In the second, the weather becomes a storm. Now we have two undesirable elements, and as such, they work together to build unease.

Weather can have a positive or negative effect on setting and change the character’s reaction to it, so don’t be afraid to use it! Just remember that with something this powerful, a light touch is all that is needed.

Fog Image: Pixabay

Do you use weather in your stories? How do you go about it?

15 comments on “Power Your Fiction: Using Weather To Create Mood, Not Clichés”

I love your books! Wonderful post- thank you for sharing!

Thank you Alan--you made my day! Season's Greetings!

Thank you so much for the post! I have all 3 of your books and love them. I'm working on a novella that involves weather, Snowbound with the Stork, but I'm using a little twist. I'm using the "snow" event that crippled Atlanta and several other cities in the South with 1 to 1.5 inches of snow.

Carrie, so very glad our books are helping you as you write. And that sounds great! It is funny--I live in Canada, and well, we get SNOW if you know what I mean. I knew someone who lives in Vegas and a few years back they got an inch of snow and it completely paralyzed the city. Schools were closed, the whole deal. Haha, an inch of snow! But, when you are expecting it and don't know how to deal with it as a city, I can imagine it would cause havoc!

Great post, Angela! My WIP is a quest story, so weather (and nature in general) was something I tried to keep in mind when I was writing the first draft. Not only can it enhance or (literally) dampen the mood, but it can be an obstacle to the character's physical journey. At one point I wondered, "Why don't many quest stories have a scene where it rains?" So, I picked a scene where rain would be appropriate, and wrote it that way.

Yes, weather is great at creating conflict, so glad to hear you're bringing it into your story for that reason. Weather is unpredictable, and because we humans like to be in control, it is the perfect way to remind our protagonist that he is not. There are so many deep ways weather can bring more texture to any scene, so i love reading stories where it is used well. 🙂

Hello Angela. Fellow writer, Cathy Orzech, wrote to me saying, "Thought you'd be interested in this take on "Using weather to create mood…." I enjoyed your use and detail of weather in Amanda's Room." Cathy was right. I enjoyed your article very much and, with your permission, would like to reprint it on my blog, "Something Significant." In "Amanda's Room," I wanted to use the weather in a unique way, so I went beyond using it as a backdrop and instead turned it into a central character in the book. Following Ken Follett's example in "Code to Zero," I also led each chapter with factual quotes about the weather which later became linked to what was happening in the story and the lives of the characters. If you are interested, let me know and I would be happy to send you a complimentary copy of the ebook. In the meantime, warmest wishes for a wonderful holiday season. Warmest Regards, Chuck Miceli

So glad you found this article helpful. It sounds like you really have a good handle on how to use weather, so good on you! Feel free to reprint, and if you could just link to this one here, people can follow it back to the original should they wish to (and discover a great blog while they are at it!).

Happy writing!

I do include weather. It's such an every day part of life, how can you not? But I try to remember that how I describe the weather needs to be through the prism of how my characters are feeling - a kid waking up on the first day of summer holidays is going to feel differently about a beautiful day than a kid being made to run laps in phys ed. The weather might be exactly the same but in one situation the sunshine is an invitation, in the other it's a merciless torturer.

This was a great post. Thanks for sharing it.

Yes, absolutely. All description should come through that emotional filter as it brings readers deeper into the mind and heart of the POV character. Glad you enjoyed the post!

[…] Ackerman discusses how to use weather to create mood, not clichés on Writers in the […]

Warmer weather and bright sunshine foreshadow the action in my YA winter adventure short story in this month's Cricket Magazine. Thank you for your insight on how to make weather integral to the plot and characterization.

Very happy to help, Victoria!

[…] Power Your Fiction: Using Weather To Create Mood, Not Clichés By Angela Ackerman […]

[…] “Power Your Fiction: Using Weather To Create Mood, Not Clichés” by Angela Ackerman (Wr… […]

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Fun Winter Writing Prompts: Spark Cold-Weather Creativity

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Fun Winter Writing Prompts: Spark Cold-Weather Creativity

I. Introduction: Embrace the Winter Season by Igniting⁣ Your⁣ Imagination

Ii. creative warm-up: inspiring winter⁤ scenery descriptions, iii. chills and thrills: crafting spine-tingling winter tales, iv. frosty ⁢adventures: imagining new winter wonderland‍ characters, v.‌ expressing winter emotions: poetic reflections on the season, bonding with nature, beloved ‍winter traditions, vii. ⁢winter haiku: capturing transient beauty in three lines, viii. cozy writing nooks: creating the ‌perfect winter writing ‍sanctuary, frequently ‍asked questions, closing‍ remarks.

As the days grow shorter and a frosty⁤ chill‍ fills ⁤the air, a magical opportunity presents ‌itself: the winter season. While for some it may be a time of cozy blankets and hot cocoa by ⁣the fireplace, we invite you to⁣ go‍ beyond the ‍ordinary and discover ‌the wonders that await ⁣when you engage your imagination. ⁢This introductory section will set the stage ⁣for a journey ‍of enchantment and creativity, urging you to embrace the⁤ winter season with‍ open arms.

Winter brings with it a myriad of possibilities, each as unique as the‍ delicate‌ snowflakes that grace the earth. By unlocking the‍ power of ‍your imagination, you can transform the cold and sometimes⁢ gloomy days into a world‌ of your own creation. ⁢Allow your⁤ mind⁣ to wander to far-off lands blanketed in pristine snow,⁣ where⁣ snowmen come to ‍life and icicles sparkle like diamonds. Picture yourself venturing into mysterious⁤ forests, where ⁢ancient trees bow under the weight of glistening ice,‌ and⁢ whispering ‌winds ‌carry tales from another time. Embracing the winter season means embracing the opportunity to let your ⁣creativity soar.

II. Creative Warm-Up: Inspiring Winter Scenery Descriptions

In this ⁤creative warm-up, we will explore the beauty of winter scenery through vivid descriptions. Get ready to sharpen your imagination and get ‍inspired by the magical landscapes that winter has to offer. Whether you are a writer, artist,⁢ or simply looking for a creative exercise, this activity will help ‌you delve into the mesmerizing details of the winter season.

To kick-start your⁤ creativity, here are some ideas to describe winter scenery:

Frosty Forest: Picture a serene⁤ forest covered in a ‌delicate layer‍ of frost. The trees⁣ glisten⁢ as ⁣the early ⁤morning sunlight kisses their icy branches. Each ‍step you take echoes through the ‌stillness, and a⁣ sense of tranquility surrounds you.
Winter ⁣Wonderland: Imagine a landscape⁤ blanketed in fresh, untouched snow. ‌Sparkling like a thousand diamonds, ⁢it creates ‍a soft, ethereal⁢ glow. The air is crisp, and ⁢the only sound you hear is the satisfying crunch of your ‍footsteps as you leave a trail ‌behind.
Enchanting Frozen ⁣Lake: ‌ Visualize a vast frozen lake, its surface a mirror of ice reflecting the pale blue sky above. Glistening icicles hang ⁣from the ⁤surrounding trees, creating a ‌magical⁢ atmosphere. ⁣As‍ you stand by its shores, you can’t help but hear the⁤ faint crackling of the frozen ‍water beneath.

Allow‍ your mind to explore ⁣these ⁢winter scenes and describe them in your⁣ own⁤ unique⁢ way. Let your words paint a vivid picture, capturing the essence of winter’s charm and allure.

III. Chills and⁢ Thrills: Crafting‌ Spine-Tingling Winter Tales

Winter is the ‌perfect setting to evoke a ⁤sense of mystery, suspense, and excitement in the hearts of⁣ your readers. Whether you’re a seasoned‌ writer or just starting out, this section will guide⁤ you in crafting spine-tingling winter tales that ⁤will send shivers ⁢down⁣ your⁣ readers’ spines.⁤ So, grab a cozy blanket, sip on a warm cup of cocoa, and prepare to dive into the chilling depths of storytelling!

1. Setting⁤ the Stage: To create a truly chilling winter tale, focus on building a vivid and atmospheric setting. Transport your readers⁤ to⁣ icy ⁤landscapes adorned with snow-cloaked trees ‌and frozen lakes that crack beneath weight. Describe the biting cold that numbs fingertips and the dense fog that hides secrets‍ in its ‌ethereal embrace. Utilize sensory details to bring your reader into your frozen world and make them feel the bone-chilling cold, the eerie silence interrupted‌ only by the sound of howling winds.

Frosty⁣ Adventures: Imagining New Winter Wonderland Characters

Winter is a magical time of year,⁤ filled with snow-covered landscapes and endless possibilities. In this ⁢section, ⁢we will delve into the realm of imagination and explore some exciting new characters that⁣ could inhabit our very own winter wonderland.

1. Snow Queen: Imagine a majestic queen, shimmering in‍ a stunning gown made entirely of glistening snowflakes. She can conjure‌ blizzards at‌ will and possesses the ⁣power to freeze anything‍ she touches. With her ⁤icy blue eyes and ⁢a warm heart, she offers guidance and protection to all who journey through her ⁣kingdom.‍

2. ⁣Blizzard‍ Beast: Deep within the ⁤frozen forest, there ⁢exists a fearsome creature with a breath⁢ as cold as‌ Arctic winds. This behemoth roams the⁤ land, leaving a trail ‍of ‌snowy destruction‍ in its wake. Its mighty paws can summon avalanches, and its icy horns can withstand even the fiercest storms. Many adventurers seek to tame this beast, ⁤hoping to‍ harness its power ⁣for good.

V. Expressing Winter Emotions:‌ Poetic Reflections on the⁤ Season

Winter, a season that paints the world‌ in delicate shades of white, evokes a myriad of emotions ⁤within us. The quiet charm of‌ falling snowflakes, the crispness in the air,‍ and the stillness that blankets the landscape, all create a canvas for poetic reflection. ⁢Through⁤ the art of ⁢words, poets capture and express the essence of winter, inviting us ‍to delve into our own emotions brought forth by this magical time of year.

1. Capturing the Serenity: Poets often explore the ⁣tranquil beauty of winter, depicting scenes that evoke a ⁣sense ⁣of⁣ calmness, peace,⁢ and solitude. Their words paint vivid imagery of snow-covered⁣ landscapes, frozen lakes, and⁣ barren trees. Through these peaceful descriptions, they convey the stillness of nature, inviting us⁤ to find⁣ solace and reflect upon our own inner calmness during this hushed season.

2. Embracing the Coziness: While winter may be associated with cold temperatures,⁢ it⁣ also brings a sense of warmth ‍and coziness. Poets often express the joy‍ of curling up ‍by the fireplace, wrapped in a⁤ soft blanket, sipping hot cocoa, and ⁢indulging in hearty comfort foods. ‍In their ⁣verses, they celebrate moments of togetherness with loved ones, the joy of sharing laughter, and the happiness⁤ found in simple pleasures. These heartfelt portrayals‍ remind us to embrace the‌ cozy moments ⁢and find joy in the warmth of winter’s ⁢embrace.

VI. ⁣Winter Memoirs: Sharing Personal Stories of Cold-Weather Moments

As temperatures plummet and snow blankets the landscape,⁤ winter brings forth a myriad of cherished⁤ memories. ⁢Let’s gather‌ around the⁤ virtual fireplace,⁢ sip a ⁤cozy cup of⁣ cocoa, and share ‍our unique⁢ adventures in ‍the chilly wonderland. Join us as ⁢we embark‌ on a journey of heartwarming anecdotes from frosty escapades that have left‍ an indelible⁢ mark on our souls.

Winters offer us the opportunity to forge unforgettable connections with ⁣the natural world. From snow-capped⁣ mountains to frozen lakes, we ‌find solace and exhilaration in these frosty landscapes. *Remember that time you skied ‌down a steep slope while your heart soared?* Or perhaps you encountered a⁢ majestic reindeer while trekking through a snow-laden forest? Share these enchanting‍ moments as we revel in the beauty and⁢ serenity that winter brings.

Winter is a season teeming with cherished traditions, passed down through‍ generations. *Did‍ your family ever⁣ engage in a⁢ friendly snowball fight, leaving you ‌in fits of‌ laughter ⁢and covered in ⁢frost?* Maybe you participated in building a colossal snowman together, adorning‌ it with hats and scarves to bring it to ‍life? Let’s‍ reminisce about these⁤ heartwarming customs and discover the joy they bring, filling our winters with ‍love ⁤and togetherness.

Winter, with its ⁢icy breath and pristine landscapes, has long been a muse for poets seeking to encapsulate its ‍fleeting allure. Haiku, a traditional form of Japanese ⁢poetry, allows us to distill the ⁤essence of this season into just three lines. In ‍these seemingly simple verses, poets weave ‍together vivid imagery, ‌emotions, and⁣ a touch of ⁤Zen philosophy,⁢ capturing ‌the delicate beauty⁢ that exists for but a ‌moment ‍before vanishing like frost⁤ beneath ⁢the morning sun.

Each ‍haiku possesses a⁤ profound ability to transport us into the heart of winter, revealing its multifaceted facets. From delicate ‍snowflakes gracefully descending from the⁣ heavens to ⁣the ‍quiet solitude of a ⁤frozen lake, these ⁢tiny⁢ poems serve as⁣ windows into‍ a world often overlooked or⁤ taken for granted. Through the precise and⁢ deliberate choice of words, haiku invites us to slow down, to ⁣truly see and experience the ephemeral beauty that surrounds us ⁤during this enchanting ⁣season.

Ancient pines whisper, their branches laden with snow -‌ winter’s silent hymn.
Footprints in fresh ‌white, a dance on frozen ⁢canvas ⁣- youth’s fleeting marker.
Crisp air greets the dawn, golden ⁤rays whisper secrets – nature’s daily‍ charm.

These carefully ‌crafted haikus are like microcosms, encapsulating moments of bliss, melancholy, and wonder⁢ that winter brings. By embracing the brevity and⁣ simplicity of haiku poetry, we ⁢embark on a journey through the ⁢season, discovering its undeniable allure as well as its profound lessons of transience and impermanence. So, let us revel in the power of these three ‍lines and let them kindle ‌a flame that warms our ⁤soul⁣ even in the⁢ coldest of winters.

VIII. Cozy Writing Nooks: Creating the Perfect Winter Writing Sanctuary

As the chill of winter settles in,⁢ avid writers find solace in‌ the warmth and comfort of ⁣their very own writing nooks. These sanctuaries ⁣provide a cozy and inspiring environment‍ where creativity can bloom. If you’re yearning to create your very own winter ⁣writing sanctuary, here are some tips to help you craft a space that perfectly encapsulates both serenity and ⁣productivity:

Choose the ideal‍ location: Find a spot in your home that offers natural light and minimal distractions. ⁤It could be a nook in your study, a secluded corner, ⁤or‌ even a window-facing desk overlooking a breathtaking winter landscape.
Embrace soft and inviting furnishings: ‍ Furnish your writing nook with plush cushions,⁤ warm blankets, and a comfortable chair to ‌sink⁤ into. Create an atmosphere that encourages you to snuggle up and let your thoughts flow.
Add ambiance with lighting: Utilize soft, warm ‌lighting options such as fairy lights, ⁢candles, or a dimmable lamp to ‍create a soothing atmosphere.
Surround yourself with inspiration: ⁢ Display‍ shelves or a bulletin board with ‍quotes, photographs, or objects that⁣ inspire⁤ your writing. Let your nook ⁣be a reflection of your ‍imagination.

Remember, the perfect winter writing sanctuary is ‌about crafting an environment that nurtures your creativity and provides you with the‍ utmost comfort. With each stroke of the pen, you’ll find⁤ yourself transported to a ‍world where ⁢winter’s ⁣cold ⁤embraces your⁣ words, igniting a fire within your soul.

Q: What are some fun‌ winter writing prompts to spark cold-weather creativity? A: Looking for⁢ inspiration ⁣during the⁣ chilly winter season? We have compiled a⁢ list of engaging writing ⁢prompts to ‍fuel your creativity as the snow falls and the temperature drops.

Q: Can you give‌ me an example of a winter-themed writing prompt ? A: Of ⁤course! How about this one: “Imagine yourself waking up to find the ⁤entire ‍world covered in a thick‍ blanket⁤ of snow. Describe the‌ sights, sounds, and feelings you experience as you step outside for the‍ first time.”

Q: Are these‍ prompts suitable⁣ for all ages? A: Absolutely! Our prompts cater to a ‌wide range of ages and can be adapted to suit the interests and‍ writing⁣ abilities of both children and⁤ adults alike.

Q: Will these writing prompts‍ only‍ focus on winter landscapes or ⁣snow-related activities? A: While many of our‍ prompts do ‌revolve around the winter ⁢season and its unique characteristics, we also provide prompts‍ that delve ⁣into various themes, such as winter traditions, holiday memories, and⁣ even fictional winter adventures.

Q: How can these ⁤writing prompts benefit young writers? A: These‍ prompts serve as wonderful tools to enhance young writers’ skills. They encourage imagination, help develop descriptive writing, and improve storytelling abilities. ‌They also provide an opportunity for children to ⁤express‌ their thoughts and emotions through writing.

Q: Can these writing prompts‍ be used in ⁢a classroom ‍setting? A: Absolutely! Many teachers ⁤find our winter writing prompts to ⁤be an excellent way to engage their students during the⁢ colder months. They can be used as daily warm-up exercises, class discussions, or even as⁢ the foundation for longer writing assignments .

Q: Are there any specific tips for using these writing prompts effectively? A: ‌It’s always helpful‌ to encourage writers to focus on using descriptive language, appealing to the ⁢senses, and incorporating emotions into their narratives. Additionally, offering ⁣prompts in ⁢a ‍visual format with⁢ accompanying‌ images can further stimulate ⁤creativity and help struggling writers.

Q: Where can I find these winter writing prompts? A: You can‌ find our‌ comprehensive list of winter writing prompts in our article titled “Fun Winter Writing Prompts: Spark ‍Cold-Weather Creativity.” Feel free to explore and utilize these prompts to ignite your writing during the winter season.

Q: Are there any additional resources⁤ or tools available to support writers‍ using‌ these prompts? A: Absolutely! We recommend checking out online writing ⁣communities ⁤ or forums⁤ where writers can share their work, receive feedback, and find ⁢further inspiration. Additionally, writing apps and software often offer prompts and exercises ‌to help writers ‍challenge ‌themselves and⁤ improve their craft.

Q: How can one share their creative writing prompted by ⁢these winter-themed ideas? A: Sharing your work is a great way to gain encouragement and feedback. You can share ⁤your writing⁤ with‌ friends, ⁤family, ⁢or even submit them to blogs, literary magazines, ⁤or writing contests. Don’t ‌be afraid to put your work out there‍ and let others ⁣appreciate your creativity! ‌

In⁣ conclusion, these fun winter writing prompts are sure‍ to inspire and ‌unlock your ⁣creativity, ‌even in the chilliest⁤ of weather. Happy writing!

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Sunday, January 14, 2007

Creative Writing: Fog and Stillness

The fog is a familiar visitor on the Maine coast. It can move like a quick intruder, venturing in at the front window, drifting across the house and out the back, leaving the air and surfaces cool and clammy from its damp fingerprints. Other times, the fog sits, heavy and still, infusing the entire landscape with moisture and a weighty silence. In a heavy fog the world grows so quiet around you, so motionless and almost breathless, you might come to believe you're the only living creature left on Earth.

2 comments:

When I saw "infuses," I thought of a coffee shop or Jamba Juice, where they ask if you want an infusion of something or other.

Funny! Yeah, I'm not convinced I've got the right word there. Speaking of coffee, any word on the Starbuck's Challenge?

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4.18: Poem: Fog

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The fog comes on little cat feet.

It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on.

Fog. Authored by : Carl Sandburg. Provided by : Wikisource. Located at : https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Fog . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike

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The fog comes on little cat feet.

It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on.

Introduction to Creative Writing by Lumen Learning is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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BRYN DONOVAN

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Master List of Ways to Describe Fear

People have been asking me for this list for such a long time! If you write horror, suspense, mystery, or any kind of fiction with a scary scenes, you need to know how to describe fear.

This list can get you started. It’s a lot of phrases describing fear, including physical reactions, physical sensations, facial expressions, and other words you can use in your novel or in other creative writing.

I’ve included some that can work for uneasiness or anxiety, but most of these are for real terror. You can alter them to fit your sentence or your story, and they’ll likely inspire you to come up with your own descriptions.

Bookmark or pin this page for your reference—it might save you a lot of time in the future. I’ll probably add to it now and again!

Master List of Ways to Describe Fear #master lists for writers free ebook #master lists for writers free pdf #master lists for writers free kindle #describing fear in a story #description of fear #great fear #how to describe fear #words describing fear

fear paralyzed him

his terror mounted with every step

she fought a rising panic

fear tormented her

her heart was uneasy

her heart leaped into her throat

his heart hammered in his chest

his heart pounded

terror stabbed his heart

his heart jumped

her heart lurched

a fear that almost unmanned him

his body shook with fear

she trembled inside

he suppressed a shiver

panic surged through him

her fear spiked

he was in a complete state of panic

she could feel nothing but blind terror

his legs were wobbly with fear

she sweated with fear

his hands were cold and clammy

she was weighed down by dread

dread twisted in her gut

his stomach clenched

fear fluttered in her stomach

her belly cramped

he felt like he might throw up

she was sick with fear

she was frightened down to the soles of her shoes

he was icy with panic

her body went cold with dread

raw panic was in her voice

her voice was thick with fear

his voice was edged with fear

terror thundered down on him

fear caught her in its jaws

fear clawed up her throat

terror sealed her throat

fear gripped her throat

his throat tightened

then she knew real terror was

he was frantic with fear

she was half mad with terror

the color drained from her face

his face was ashen

she blanched

dread gnawed at his insides

dread had been growing in him all day

fresh terror reared up within her

fear choked him

terror stole her words

he was mute with horror

her voice was numb with shock

his voice was shrill with terror

her defiant words masked her fear

her body felt numb

his blood froze in his veins

terror coursed through her veins

fear throbbed inside her

his panic fueled him

adrenaline pumped through his body

adrenaline crashed through her

fear pulsed through him

her scalp prickled

the hairs on the back of her neck stood up

his mouth went dry

his bones turned to jelly

her bones turned to water

she froze with horror

he didn’t dare to move

terror struck her

he was too frightened to lift her head

she was too frightened to scream

his mouth was open in a silent scream

he cringed with fear

she cowered

he shrank back in fear

she flinched

a bolt of panic hit her

terror streaked through him

her terror swelled

his panic increased

anxiety eclipsed his thoughts

panic flared in her eyes

his eyes were wild with terror

her eyes darted from left to right

she feared to close her eyes

he lay awake in a haze of fear

she walked on in a fog of fear

his eyes widened with alarm

she tried to hide her fear

he struggled to conceal his shock

fear crept up her spine

fear trickled down her spine

panic seized his brain

she felt a flash of terror

fear took hold of him

fear flooded through her being

she ordered a drink to drown the panic

he arranged and re-arranged the items on his desk

a nameless dread engulfed him

Master List of Ways to Describe Fear #describing fear in a story #description of fear #great fear #how to describe fear #words describing fear

I bet you came up with other ideas as you were reading!

For more writing lists, check out my book Master Lists for Writers , if you don’t have it yet! A lot of writers use it to make writing go faster, especially when it comes to descriptions.

And if you’re not following the blog already, sign up below—I share lots of writing resources. Thanks so much for reading, and happy writing!

50 Spooky Writing Prompts and Horror Story Ideas #horror writing ideas #horror writing prompts #scary story prompts #Halloween writing prompts #dark fantasy story ideas #suspense story plots

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Sixth Sense Settings: Writing Rich, Descriptive Scenes

Charles Dickens

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What the heck are we talking about.

Welcome to November. If you are participating in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) , then you have just embarked on your month-long novelling odyssey. To help you reach your daily word counts, I’m going to focus on ways to enrich your description. If you’ve spent even a little time in the creative writing atmosphere, you’ve probably heard the adage “show, don’t tell.” Generally speaking, it’s a reminder to writers to describe what happened in a scene instead of just blurting it out. For example:

I fell asleep at the wheel, and I drove into a tree.

Sure, the reader knows what happened, but written this way, it doesn’t engender much interest or emotion. Here is another way to write the same scene.

I awoke to the violent crunch of metal on wood, the hiss of the radiator, and the sickly sweet smells of antifreeze and gasoline.

By invoking a few senses, the scene comes to life. Adding the sights, smells, and sounds allows the reader to imagine the moment. It’s a relatively simple way to better engage your reader and bring him or her deep into the world you are creating. In addition to the five traditional senses—sight, touch, smell, taste, and sound, use of the sixth sense—mood (not the ability to see dead people) is equally important to writing rich, believable scenes. It can also be called tone. Whatever you call it, even the most detailed description can fall totally flat without deliberate evocation of the appropriate emotion. Let’s try that car-crashing-into-a-tree example again. Below are two examples that each have a particular tone or mood that enhances the actual description.

I opened my eyes to find my Caddy hugging a tree; its shiny blue hood was now ruffled like a prom dress, the radiator was sighing like a lover, and the sweet aromas of antifreeze and gasoline danced to the rhythmic tinks and pops of the car as it settled into its arboreal embrace.

Car. Tree. Bits of bark, leaves, and metal shards everywhere. Blood. I pass a tongue over my smarting lip. My blood. Oh god. What is that smell? Sweet, chemical... and is that a hint of…GAS? OhgodIgottagetouttahere!

In the first example, I overlaid an emotion not typically associated with a car crash—tenderness. The imagery and metaphors suggest a lighter, less scary moment. Though, the reader could reasonably assume that the speaker is not in his or her right mind, too. That adds the question of the reliability of the narrator, and if you were trying to demonstrate to your reader that your narrator can’t be trusted, using this sort of juxtaposition might be a good way to start. (We’ll go more in depth on reliable narrators another day, but if you can’t wait, here’s a decent explanation on the web.)

The second example uses short sentence style and staccato pacing to evoke a panicked tone. Details are fed to the reader in the order that the narrator notices them. Interjections of emotive phrases heighten the sense of danger. It’s a more realistic reenactment of a car crash and the person experiencing it.

See a Master at Work

Ok, now that you’ve read my attempts, let’s review a piece from a Master of Description. Charles Dickens is one of those writers whose settings are known by people who haven’t even read a single sentence of his work. Dickens’ early to mid-1800s London is the baseline for so much of how we see and remember that period of time in books, movies, and theater. His stories were fictional, but his descriptions of his home-city were thoroughly researched and deliberately realistic. They resonate with us even now, long after that city has been replaced by a modern metropolis.

Let’s read the opening chapter from Bleak House :

LONDON. Michaelmas Term lately over, and the Lord Chancellor sitting in Lincoln’s Inn Hall. Implacable November weather. As much mud in the streets as if the waters had but newly retired from the face of the earth, and it would not be wonderful to meet a Megalosaurus, forty feet long or so, waddling like an elephantine lizard up Holborn Hill. Smoke lowering down from chimney-pots, making a soft black drizzle, with flakes of soot in it as big as full-grown snow-flakes — gone into mourning, one might imagine, for the death of the sun. Dogs, undistinguishable in mire. Horses, scarcely better; splashed to their very blinkers. Foot passengers, jostling one another’s umbrellas in a general infection of ill-temper, and losing their foot-hold at street-corners, where tens of thousands of other foot passengers have been slipping and sliding since the day broke (if the day ever broke), adding new deposits to the crust upon crust of mud, sticking at those points tenaciously to the pavement, and accumulating at compound interest. Fog everywhere. Fog up the river, where it flows among green aits and meadows; fog down the river, where it rolls defiled among the tiers of shipping and the waterside pollutions of a great (and dirty) city. Fog on the Essex marshes, fog on the Kentish heights. Fog creeping into the cabooses of collier-brigs; fog lying out on the yards, and hovering in the rigging of great ships; fog drooping on the gunwales of barges and small boats. Fog in the eyes and throats of ancient Greenwich pensioners, wheezing by the firesides of their wards; fog in the stem and bowl of the afternoon pipe of the wrathful skipper, down in his close cabin; fog cruelly pinching the toes and fingers of his shivering little ’prentice boy on deck. Chance people on the bridges peeping over the parapets into a nether sky of fog, with fog all round them, as if they were up in a balloon, and hanging in the misty clouds.

Dickens sets the scene immediately with the simple statement of “London.” Then he draws the reader in closer and begins to show him or her bits of this very specific kind of London in a very specific kind of weather. He evokes all six sense as he moves from the physical environment to the particular experiences of certain people (and animals) who are affected by the weather. Imagine if he’d written this instead:

It was a muddy and foggy November day in London.

If you have some experience of London, or fog, or mud, or typical English November weather, you might be able to conjure a significant mental image. If you know Dickens wrote it, and you knew a little bit about him, you might imagine a few more details. If not, this would give you little to work with. The tone is flat, lifeless. The reader is not given a clear indication of how to feel about it, except by his or her own pre-judgments about fog, mud, November, or London.

Dickens, instead, pulls his reader into the world he’s setting up. Although this scene was contemporary to him, even a modern reader can picture the context of this moment… the omnipresent fog and the primordial mud that seeps into every crevice of life, hindering man and animal alike. It’s hard to read these paragraphs and not feel a shiver, not to smell a whiff of damp, not to sense the foreboding. The tone of the passage, as indicated by the book’s title, is truly bleak.

Now, It's Your Turn

For practice this time around, rewrite Dickens’ scene to convey a completely different tone. Keep the details the same, but change the word choice and metaphors to create a different mood. Do this for at least one other tone, if not two. Please post your versions as comments . I’d love to read them! If you don't want to post, email them to me: [email protected] .

Get Bleak House by Charles Dickens at Bookshop or Amazon

Column by Taylor Houston

Taylor Houston is a genuine Word Nerd living in Portland, OR where she works as a technical writer and volunteers on the marketing committee for Wordstock , a local organization dedicated to writing education. She has a BA in Creative Writing and Spanish from Hamilton College and attended Penn State's MFA program in Creative Nonfiction. She has taught writing at all levels from middle school to college to adult, and she is the creator of Writer’s Cramp , a class for adults who just want to write!

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LONDON. Shadows in every corner, lurking at the back of every alley. The flickering gas lights do little to hold them back. People everywhere huddled against the cold and dark. Some striding purposefully with a glint of menace in their eye, others shrunken in on themselves with anxious gaunt, faces.

All the smells of a city, smoke, leather, the tang of horse manure, a damp air of rot rolling in from the river, and under it all a disturing hint of blood, death and decay.

Awesome, Bryan! That's great. I sure wouldn't want to be in London in that scene. YIkes. I love that you kept the dark mood, but darkened it up even more--closer to horror. London's not cold, it's downright deadly. Nicely done, and thank you for sharing!

Taylor, all of your articles have been wonderful. Are you planning on teaching a class on LitReactor?

This is quite cool. I'm not participating in NANOWRIMO, but the column is appreciated.

Aw shucks, Raelyn. Thank you! At this time, I'm not set to teach for LitReactor, but ya never know. Thank you for reading. If you have any requests for topics for articles, let me know!

Thanks Derek! I haven't decided if I'm participating in NaNoWriMo this year or not. I did last year, and it was fun even though I didn't even hit 30k words. It's just nice to give yourself license to write a lot and not worry about editing it (until later.) Very freeing! I probably will this year, too.

Yes, the column and this article are appreciated. I often forget all about using smell in my scenes, which really stinks.

London. The fog sits on the city like its own risen spirit exhumed from its stone and glass body. Deep breaths sting, the air laced with a barbed chill. Men hold tightly to their women’s elbows, as the pairs peel their shoes from the muddy glop caked across the city’s streets and corridors. They step high in woolen garb like cadets on parade, and fine stockings are stained and ruined and even the shoes themselves are filled tight with foul earth.

The day is not properly lit up, and the Sun seems feeble and lazy. On the pockmarked streets where paths to work and home have been hard earned, children flicker in the earthen clouds like apparitions. Painted with mud like miniature savages, they give chase to one another armed with fistfuls of mud to sling. Their merry laughter and playful screams of ambush chime out in the nether hang, bouncing to and fro, while pedestrians jerk their heads nervously towards the sounds, as the spirit looms around them.

Fantastic, Andy! Thank you VERY much for sharing this with us. Love the description of the children and the juxtaposition of their merriment with the generalized atmosphere of hardship.

London. The beating heart of a rich and proud empire. A celestial shroud of fog cloaks the November morning in obscurity, but underneath the wet and the cold, the rich symphony of an energetic metropolis plays on the morning air. There is a resounding clangor of ships sailing up and down the mighty Thames, which is accompanied by softer, more personal notes; the raucous laughter of the pubs, the chaotic din of the markets, the slosh and sucking of mud as the city's inhabitants moved like a school of salmon through the busy streets.

The pungent aromas of soot and horse dung are almost comforting, for they are able to pierce the veil of mist and remind the grey morning that there is life here.

High above the lively, industrious city, the majestic Tower of London, and Big Ben (the regal crown of the great hall of Parliament), punch through the fog. These stalwart stone sentinels stand firm as they look down in loving protection on their city, both splendiferous symbols of affluence and power.

A dank chill cuts to the bone of the wealthy and the destitute alike, but the warmth of chimney fires, and the emanations of heat from thousands of bodies help to keep the cold at bay.

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GCSE English Language Creative writing fog personification starter activity grade 9

Subject: English

Age range: 14-16

Resource type: Worksheet/Activity

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This is a great starter activity for creative writing lessons, using weather and fog. The activity sheet has a paragraph personifying the fog, where students are asked to highlight the language techniques and name them. Then it opens up discussion for what connotations they can comment on. It will ask students to add more advanced punctuation in to the paragraph and then leading to students writing their own paragraph on fog.

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Engli5h_t3ach3r

Excellent multi-functional resource, can be used as a recap activity but also as a scaffolding element too, great for stretch and challenge. Thank you :)

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Writing to Inform, Explain and Describe

Descriptive Writing. Over a ridge to the north, surrounded by rolling hills on each side, a desolate church stood isolated and abandoned, the fog slowly creeping towards it;

Dense fog gathered in the centre of the terrain. Over a ridge to the north, surrounded by rolling hills on each side, a desolate church stood isolated and abandoned, the fog slowly creeping towards it; tendrils, like fingers, clawed their way closer, slowly smothering the open pathway that lead to the entrance with the oak doors of the church. The hazel frame of the door had a corner missing, all splintered and fractured from where the mites had been chewing for centuries. The metal of the door handle had eroded with rust and the colour had faded from the harsh gold that it once was to a dull grey today, each screw had its own swarm of mites, chewing from corner to corner, fighting and competing against the rest.

The gravestones that surround the church outside from all four sides were standing stationary, helpless and crippled from age, each symbolizing its life through the gentle glimmer of light that was shining softly from above. The wind howling, almost creating sounds like the whispers of those who lay beneath. No other sounds except those of your feet as they step across the moss-covered ground. All around, the dead were kept company with statues of mythical creatures, gargoyles perched comfortably against the old black, wrought fencing tipped with spikes covered with old vines combined throughout. Stone angels peering at you as if to keep you away, or perhaps to invite you in and numerous black cats roaming around each and every grave as though there to pay their respects, every day, once a day.

The duvet of dark and threatening clouds were disturbed as the moonlight shone through the trees that were dead with dark trunks and thin branches and glazed each window; stained and shattered, every window represents life but also the brutal murder of those who lie awake beneath the stone and no-longer are seen or visited. Once upon a time, by each grave there lay a bouquet of flowers, colour in every corner. Now, there are no flowers. Instead in their place, a bed of thorns, sticks and dismay.

This is a preview of the whole essay

As the door that creaked from age and rust slowly opened, the dust that had been gathered for many years dispersed grain by grain. Every corner manifested with cobwebs; designed to barricade those who try to pass. Ants were crawling, scrounging, searching for everything and anything; scurrying past, out into their freedom. The furniture was covered in white sheets that had turned black over the years. It seemed as though no-one had been here for decades but the lights were always on and the flames of the candles constantly flickered. The uninviting grand hallway covered in dark and miserable portraits lead to the reception that once again was covered in white sheets. Everything was hidden beneath layers of secrets and darkness.

As you made your way from room to room nothing changed. The same white sheets were everywhere, the same candles were lit and the same lights were on with cobwebs everywhere you turned. However, as you turned into the bedroom everything changed. There it was. In the heart of the room, the corpse lying in a pool of blood with flies wrapping themselves around the body, the pungent smell of rotting flesh arose, filling the room and the dagger lying on the floor covered in red. The blood seemed fresh yet the body appeared to be ancient. The body had been separated from each limb, one by one they had all been removed and put perfectly around the remains of the dead body. The face had been deformed; no-one would be able to tell who it was or what it did and why. Each lantern was lit and faced the body as though worshiping it, like they crucified the body and ever since have been by its side. But then the noises started. The screaming and the shouting, the muffled footsteps behind you, awakening the bodies beneath and the floorboards that creaked violently every so often. Each floorboard of soft pine had drips of blood that oozed fresh red blood but within seconds the red turned to black and then more red trickled through the gaps of the floor.

Teacher Reviews

Here's what a teacher thought of this essay.

Katie Dixon

**** This essay shows a sophisticated and wide vocabulary and that the writer has the ability to create an atmosphere of horror and foreboding. There is some effective use of repetition and some of the images created are very powerful. The ending is a 'cliff hanger' and leaves the reader wanting to know more but after such a build up this is not totally successful.

Descriptive Writing. Over a ridge to the north, surrounded by rolling hills on each side, a desolate church stood isolated and abandoned, the fog slowly creeping towards it;

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Word Count 701
Page Count 2
Subject English

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100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle & High School – 2024

April 15, 2024

creative writing prompts for high school and middle school teens

Some high school students dream of writing for a living, perhaps pursuing an English major in college, or even attending a creative writing MFA program later on. For other students, creative writing can be useful for school assignments, in English and other subjects, and also for preparing their Common App essays . In a less goal-oriented sense, daily freewriting in a journal can be a healthy life practice for many high schoolers. Not sure where to start? Continue reading for 100 creative writing prompts for middle school and high school students. These middle/high school writing prompts offer inspiration for getting started with writing in a number of genres and styles.

Click here to view the 35 Best Colleges for Creative Writing .

What are Creative Writing Prompts?

Similar to how an academic essay prompt provides a jumping-off point for forming and organizing an argument, creative writing prompts are points of initiation for writing a story, poem, or creative essay. Prompts can be useful for writers of all ages, helping many to get past writer’s block and just start (often one of the most difficult parts of a writing process).

Writing prompts come in a variety of forms. Sometimes they are phrases used to begin sentences. Other times they are questions, more like academic essay prompts Writing prompts can also involve objects such as photographs, or activities such as walking. Below, you will find high school writing prompts that use memories, objects, senses (smell/taste/touch), abstract ideas , and even songs as jumping-off points for creative writing. These prompts can be used to write in a variety of forms, from short stories to creative essays, to poems.

How to use Creative Writing Prompts

Before we get started with the list, are a few tips when using creative writing prompts:

Experiment with different formats : Prose is great, but there’s no need to limit yourself to full sentences, at least at first. A piece of creative writing can begin with a poem, or a dialogue, or even a list. You can always bring it back to prose later if needed.

Interpret the prompt broadly : The point of a creative writing prompt is not to answer it “correctly” or “precisely.” You might begin with the prompt, but then your ideas could take you in a completely different direction. The words in the prompt also don’t need to open your poem or essay, but could appear somewhere in the middle.

Switch up/pile up the prompts : Try using two or three prompts and combine them, or weave between them. Perhaps choose a main prompt, and a different “sub-prompt.” For example, your main prompt might be “write about being in transit from one place to another,” and within that prompt, you might use the prompt to “describe a physical sensation,” and/or one the dialogue prompts. This could be a fun way to find complexity as you write.

Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School Students (Continued)

Write first, edit later : While you’re first getting started with a prompt, leave the typos and bad grammar. Obsessing over details can take away from your flow of thoughts. You will inevitably make many fixes when you go back through to edit.

Write consistently : It often becomes easier to write when it’s a practice , rather than a once-in-a-while kind of activity. For some, it’s useful to write daily. Others find time to write every few days, or every weekend. Sometimes, a word-count goal can help (100 words a day, 2,000 words a month, etc.). If you set a goal, make sure it’s realistic. Start small and build from there, rather than starting with an unachievable goal and quickly giving up.

100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School Teens

Here are some prompts for getting started with your creative writing. These are organized by method, rather than genre, so they can inspire writing in a variety of forms. Pick and choose the ones that work best for you, and enjoy!

Prompts using memories

Begin each sentence or group of sentences with the phrase, “I remember…”
Describe a family ritual.
Choose an event in your life, and write about it from the perspective of someone else who was there.
Pick a pathway you take on a regular basis (to school, or to a friend’s house). Describe five landmarks that you remember from this pathway.
Write about your house or apartment using a memory from each room.
Write an imaginary history of the previous people who lived in your house or apartment.
Write about an ancestor based on stories you’ve heard from relatives.
What’s your earliest memory?
Who was your first friend?
Write a letter to someone you haven’t seen since childhood.
Write about yourself now from the perspective of yourself twenty, or eighty, years from now.
Write about the best month of the year.
Write about the worst day of the year.
Rant about something that has always annoyed you.
Write about the hottest or coldest day you can remember.
Visualize a fleeting moment in your life and as though it’s a photograph, and time yourself 5 minutes to write every detail you can remember about the scene.
Draw out a timeline of your life so far. Then choose three years to write about, as though you were writing for a history book.
Write about a historical event in the first person, as though you remember it.
Write about a memory of being in transit from one place to another.

Objects and photographs as creative writing prompts

Describe the first object you see in the room. What importance does it have in your life? What memories do you have with this object? What might it symbolize?
Pick up an object, and spend some time holding it/examining it. Write about how it looks, feels, and smells. Write about the material that it’s made from.
Choose a favorite family photograph. What could someone know just by looking at the photograph? What’s secretly happening in the photograph?
Choose a photograph and tell the story of this photograph from the perspective of someone or something in it.
Write about a color by describing three objects that are that color.
Tell the story of a piece of trash.
Tell the story of a pair of shoes.
Tell the story of your oldest piece of clothing.

Senses and observations as creative writing prompts

Describe a sound you hear in the room or outside. Choose the first sound you notice. What are its qualities? It’s rhythms? What other sounds does it remind you of?
Describe a physical sensation you feel right now, in as much detail as possible.
Listen to a conversation and write down a phrase that you hear someone say. Start a free-write with this phrase.
Write about a food by describing its qualities, but don’t say what it is.
Describe a flavor (salty, sweet, bitter, etc.) to someone who has never tasted it before.
Narrate your day through tastes you tasted.
Narrate your day through sounds you heard.
Narrate your day through physical sensations you felt.
Describe in detail the physical process of doing an action you consider simple or mundane, like walking or lying down or chopping vegetables.
Write about the sensation of doing an action you consider physically demanding or tiring, like running or lifting heavy boxes.
Describe something that gives you goosebumps.
Write a story that involves drinking a cold glass of water on a hot day.
Write a story that involves entering a warm house from a cold snowy day.
Describe someone’s facial features in as much detail as possible.

Songs, books, and other art

Choose a song quote, write it down, and free-write from there.
Choose a song, and write a story in which that song is playing in the car.
Choose a song, and write to the rhythm of that song.
Choose a character from a book, and describe an event in your life from the perspective of that character.
Go to a library and write down 10 book titles that catch your eye. Free-write for 5 minutes beginning with each one.
Go to a library and open to random book pages, and write down 5 sentences that catch your attention. Use those sentences as prompts and free-write for 5-minutes with each.
Choose a piece of abstract artwork. Jot down 10 words that come to mind from the painting or drawing, and free-write for 2 minutes based on each word.
Find a picture of a dramatic Renaissance painting online. Tell a story about what’s going on in the painting that has nothing to do with what the artist intended.
Write about your day in five acts, like a Shakespearean play. If your day were a play, what would be the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution?
Narrate a complicated book or film plot using only short sentences.
Read a short poem. Then write a poem that could be a “sister” or “cousin” of that poem.

Abstract ideas as creative writing prompts

Write about an experience that demonstrates an abstract idea, such as “love” or “home” or “freedom” or “loss” without ever using the word itself.
Write a list of ways to say “hello” without actually saying “hello.”
Write a list of ways to say “I love you” without actually saying “I love you.”
Do you believe in ghosts? Describe a ghost.
Invent a mode of time travel.
Glass half-full/half-empty: Write about an event or situation with a positive outlook. Then write about it with a miserable outlook.
Free-write beginning with “my religion is…” (what comes next can have as much or as little to do with organized religion as you’d like).
Free-write beginning with “my gender is…” (what comes next can have as much or as little to do with common ideas of gender as you’d like).
Write about a person or character that is “good” and one that is “evil.” Then write about the “evil” in the good character and the “good” in the evil character.
Write like you’re telling a secret.
Describe a moment of beauty you witnessed. What makes something beautiful?

Prompts for playing with narrative and character

Begin writing with the phrase, “It all started when…”
Tell a story from the middle of the most dramatic part.
Write a story that begins with the ending.
Begin a story but give it 5 possible endings.
Write a list of ways to dramatically quit a terrible job.
Write about a character breaking a social rule or ritual (i.e., walking backwards, sitting on the floor of a restaurant, wearing a ballgown to the grocery store). What are the ramifications?
You are sent to the principal’s office. Justify your bad behavior.
Re-write a well-known fairytale but set it in your school.
Write your own version of the TV show trope where someone gets stuck in an elevator with a stranger, or a secret love interest, or a nemesis.
Imagine a day where you said everything you were thinking, and write about it.
Write about a scenario in which you have too much of a good thing.
Write about a scenario in which money can buy happiness.
Invent a bank or museum heist.
Invent a superhero, including an origin story.
Write using the form of the scientific method (question, hypothesis, test, analyze data conclusion).
Write using the form of a recipe.

Middle School & High School Creative writing prompts for playing with fact vs. fiction

Write something you know for sure is true, and then, “but maybe it isn’t.” Then explain why that thing may not be true.
Write a statement and contradict that statement. Then do it again.
Draft an email with an outlandish excuse as to why you didn’t do your homework or why you need an extension.
Write about your morning routine, and make it sound extravagant/luxurious (even if it isn’t).
You’ve just won an award for doing a very mundane and simple task. Write your acceptance speech.
Write about a non-athletic event as though it were a sports game.
Write about the most complicated way to complete a simple task.
Write a brief history of your life, and exaggerate everything.
Write about your day, but lie about some things.
Tell the story of your birth.
Choose a historical event and write an alternative outcome.
Write about a day in the life of a famous person in history.
Read an instructional manual, and change three instructions to include some kind of magical or otherwise impossible element.

Prompts for starting with dialogue

Write a texting conversation between two friends who haven’t spoken in years.
Write a texting conversation between two friends who speak every day and know each other better than anyone.
Watch two people on the street having a conversation, and imagine the conversation they’re having. Write it down.
Write an overheard conversation behind a closed door that you shouldn’t be listening to.
Write a conversation between two characters arguing about contradicting memories of what happened.
You have a difficult decision to make. Write a conversation about it with yourself.
Write a conversation with a total lack of communication.
Write a job interview gone badly.

Final Thoughts – Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School

Hopefully you have found several of these creative writing prompts helpful. Remember that when writing creatively, especially on your own, you can mix, match, and change prompts. For more on writing for high school students, check out the following articles:

College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics
150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
Good Transition Words for Essays
High School Success

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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Here are some of the emotions and moods that clouds can create in writing: Wonder: As we gaze upon a cluster of fluffy white clouds floating in a clear blue sky, a sense of awe and wonder washes over us. In writing, clouds can ignite the same feeling, making the reader marvel at their beauty and mystery.
Fun Winter Writing Prompts: Spark Cold-Weather Creativity
II. Creative Warm-Up: Inspiring Winter⁤ Scenery Descriptions. In this ⁤creative warm-up, we will explore the beauty of winter scenery through vivid descriptions. ... Describe the biting cold that numbs fingertips and the dense fog that hides secrets‍ in its ‌ethereal embrace. Utilize sensory details to bring your reader into your frozen ...
Introduction to Creative Writing
The fog comes. on little cat feet. It sits looking. over harbor and city. on silent haunches. and then moves on.
Journey Woman: Creative Writing: Fog and Stillness
The fog is a familiar visitor on the Maine coast. It can move like a quick intruder, venturing in at the front window, drifting across the house and out the back, leaving the air and surfaces cool and clammy from its damp fingerprints. Other times, the fog sits, heavy and still, infusing the entire landscape with moisture and a weighty silence.
4.18: Poem: Fog
The fog comes. on little cat feet. It sits looking. over harbor and city. on silent haunches. and then moves on. Public domain content. Fog. Authored by: Carl Sandburg.
Poem: Fog
The fog comes on little cat feet. It sits looking over harbor and city on silent haunches and then moves on. ... Introduction to Creative Writing by Lumen Learning is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted. Share This Book. Powered by Pressbooks. Guides and Tutorials |Pressbooks ...
Fog Descriptive Writing
Fog Descriptive Writing. The first thing that I noticed was the fog. The bleak mist surrounded my bare feet and obscured my vision. From what I could see, a stone church flanked by two columns stood before me. The once white and pure surface was blemished by dark streaks that were a sign of the worn caused by the excess moisture in the air.
Poem: Fog
Introduction to Creative Writing by Lumen Learning is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted. Share This Book Share on Twitter
Master List of Ways to Describe Fear
For more writing lists, check out my book Master Lists for Writers, if you don't have it yet! A lot of writers use it to make writing go faster, especially when it comes to descriptions. And if you're not following the blog already, sign up below—I share lots of writing resources. Thanks so much for reading, and happy writing! Related Posts
Describing a scene
Fog from Bleak House by Charles Dickens. Instructions for a Heatwave by Maggie O'Farrell. The following extracts are beautifully crafted and create the scene for the reader using sensory descriptions. The worksheets included here could be completed independently, or used to support class discussion/pair work.
Sixth Sense Settings: Writing Rich, Descriptive Scenes
It's a relatively simple way to better engage your reader and bring him or her deep into the world you are creating. In addition to the five traditional senses—sight, touch, smell, taste, and sound, use of the sixth sense—mood (not the ability to see dead people) is equally important to writing rich, believable scenes. It can also be ...
GCSE English Language Creative writing fog personification ...
GCSE English Language Creative writing fog personification starter activity grade 9. This is a great starter activity for creative writing lessons, using weather and fog. The activity sheet has a paragraph personifying the fog, where students are asked to highlight the language techniques and name them. Then it opens up discussion for what ...
Descriptive Writing. Over a ridge to the north, surrounded by rolling
Dense fog gathered in the centre of the terrain. Over a ridge to the north, surrounded by rolling hills on each side, a desolate church stood isolated and abandoned, the fog slowly creeping towards it; tendrils, like fingers, clawed their way closer, slowly smothering the open pathway that lead to the entrance with the oak doors of the church.
100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle & High School
Sarah Mininsohn. With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter's School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan's Writing ...