Lessons in Detection Part 1

Scene Writing Tips

Tweet this: Whatever genre you write, improving your powers of observation enables you to place yourself in the scene and write it from your character’s point of view.

Over the next few weeks, we will explore ways to hone your powers of observation.

Exercise 1: Sweet talk or bribe a friend or relative into letting you go through their car. Don't tear anything apart! (You can go through your own car, but it's harder to be objective.) Take notes. Take pictures if you like.

1) What do you see and smell?

2) What do you find under the seats, in the cushions, in the glove compartment, the little nooks and crannies?

3) What do the contents and state of the car tell you about the person who owns it?

4) What does the condition of the exterior tell you about the car's history?

5) What do the seat settings tell you about the driver?

6) What kind of passengers ride in it?

7) What does it tell you about the owner’s demographic or lifestyle?

8) What kind of license plate does it have?

9) Does it have city stickers or parking passes?

10) Does it have bumper stickers? What do they say about the owner? A lack of personal statements make a difference too!

Stretch your observation muscles wherever you go. You’ll be amazed at what you begin to notice.

Your stories and characters will be the richer for it.

Tune in next week for another lesson in detection. For more information on scene writing visit http://www.dianahurwitz.com for free downloads and pick up a copy of Story Building Blocks: The Four Layers of Conflict available in e-book and print.