forum I need writing help please
Started by @Echo_6 group
tune

people_alt 39 followers

@Echo_6 group

I'm trying to write a scene for my book that is suppose to be suspenseful, and I've had lots of trouble just making it seem realistic. Anyone have any tips on how to make something more suspenseful?

@ninja_violinist

My advice:

  • long flowy sentences as you build up the tension, then short choppy sentences once the action starts.
  • focus on small unsettling details in your description
  • how much does the reader know compared to the character? Nothing is more stressful than knowing more about a dangerous situation than the character does and not being able to warn them
  • conversely, a lack of information is also terrifying. Withhold the sort of information that would make a character (and, by proxy, the reader) feel safe. Let them ask questions. Make them wait for the answers.
  • is the character expecting to be in danger? Let them wait for it. Keep them on edge, maybe even have them feel safe before you strike.
  • make sure the reader knows what's at stake, and make sure that the reader can't immediately expect everything to work out just fine