#WriteBetter

[writers-potion]

hello! i'm trying to write a manipulative/cunning character that uses his charm to get what he wants, but i'm unsure how to go about it without being too overt. he basically acts all polite and uses peoples' inherent biases (like how they are more likely to listen to or trust someone who's conventionally attractive)

i'm also struggling to come up with instances where he'd use those skills. i have an example from another story, but that'd make this ask long, so i'll give it if necessary

thank you for your time!

Writing a Cunning Character

I think the key to writing such a character would be to show how aware he is of the subtle reactions of others, and purposefully saying/doing things knowing fully well that there is plenty of room for misinterpretation.

For example:

He takes note of a waitress tucking her hair behind her ears and staring at him, and he smiles and calls her over specifically to order. Maybe she ends up giving him a free brownie.

When he sees someone debating whether they should accept his offer or not, he purposefully reaches across the desk to let his Rolex flash in the line of their sight, showing off his wealth.

You can show him carefully noting such details, in situations where he wants something out of the other person, like a job or money or a one-night stand...whatever it is. Maybe he uses his charm to cheat people out of their money or to get them to obey ridiculous orders because he just likes the sensation of exerting control over someone.

If you're writing from the cunning character's 1st person POV, you can insert little mental notes that he makes to himself. Perhaps he smiles internally at how easy the other person is, or is even proud of himself for a particularly manipulative move.

If you're writing 3rd person, it would be enough to write (1) the manipulative action/diagloue and (2) the corresponding result right next to each other to imply what's going on.

example: He reached across the desk for the cup, and their knuckles brushed briefly. A pair of dimples flashed as he smiled with all of his face. She swallowed; and nodded. "Alright."

Hope this helps! As always, happy writing.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* . ───

💎If you like my blog, buy me a coffee☕ and find me on instagram! Also, join my Tumblr writing community for some more fun.

💎Before you ask, check out my masterpost part 1 and part 2 

[s-soulwriter]

Writing Angsty Scenes Without Making Them Cringe

Alright, so we all love a good angsty moment, right? That scene where everything feels like it's falling apart, emotions are running high, and your character's world is just burning around them. But… writing those scenes without slipping into "oh no, not this again" territory? Yeah, it can be tricky.

Angst is powerful, no doubt, but it can get cringey fast if you’re not careful. So, how do you make your readers feel the hurt without rolling their eyes at the drama? Here are some thoughts (because we’ve all been there)

1. Keep It Real No one—and I mean no one—has perfectly poetic, life-altering thoughts while they’re in the middle of an emotional meltdown. If your character’s going through it, make sure their reactions feel raw, maybe even messy. Show us their confusion, anger, and fear in a way that makes sense for them. Don’t just throw in a monologue about the meaning of life or have them collapse in a rainstorm. (Unless it’s really necessary. Then, okay, fine, but be careful!)

2. The Little Details Hit Harder Sometimes, it’s the small, unexpected details that pack the biggest punch. Instead of a dramatic sobbing fit, maybe your character’s hands shake as they try to make a cup of tea or they notice a tiny crack in the wall that they never noticed before because they’re spiraling. It’s those little, relatable moments that make the angst feel real, not overdone.

3. Embrace the Quiet Moments It doesn’t always have to be yelling or crying to show that your character is struggling. Silence can be loud. Sometimes it’s the things unsaid that carry the most weight. Maybe your character withdraws, or they’re stuck staring at the ceiling for hours. A pause in the conversation, a long sigh, or a blank stare can be just as gut-wrenching as full-on breakdowns.

4. Avoid the Obvious Clichés (If You Can) Okay, this one’s a bit tricky. It’s not that you can’t ever have rain scenes or broken mirrors (I see you, “symbolism”), but if you’re gonna go there, give it a twist. Maybe instead of staring out a window during a storm, they’re in a brightly lit, overly cheerful room that just doesn’t match how they’re feeling. Play with contrasts. Make the environment work against their mood rather than mirroring it perfectly.

5. Let the Angst Breathe Don’t feel like you need to dump all the angst in one scene. Let it stretch out a bit. Give your characters space to process (or fail to process) over time. A lot of times, readers will feel more for a character who’s quietly unraveling over several chapters than one who explodes all at once. It makes the eventual breakdown hit harder when it does happen.

6. People Are Weird When They’re Hurting They joke at the wrong times. They say things they don’t mean. They shut people out, or they get way too clingy. Don’t be afraid to make your characters react in unexpected or contradictory ways—people do that when they’re feeling too much. Let your characters be complicated, because real people are.

7. Subtle Can Be Stronger Not every angsty scene needs a screaming match or someone running away dramatically. Sometimes, a single line of dialogue or a character’s slight change in expression can hit like a freight train. Try letting things simmer. Hold back when it feels like you should go big, and you might surprise yourself (and your readers) with how much more intense it feels.

[env0writes]

The chain shirt i never wore is chafing How have i, of all warriors, not acquired Such heart rending loss Pierced, unadorned in chain What loss and fail, to bear no maile Weak to such serpentine kiss of love Slithering to bite me, Deaf to its baby rattled warning Yet without any protection I am suffer to infection sweet with soured dreaming Sweetly dreaming of that sandscored shirt That shirt of maile, i failed to find Wailed to bind to my raw skin Why should i venture into life unadorned Into the wild scorned by armors efficient and lithe Am I to pursue a wife, some lady to -wife to me Without so much as a gambeson, padded and protected Without any so much as a pin upon my breast Pierce me to the heart and stop Its toddering toddlering beating That is so heartenly beaten into my being Woven into fibers, links, and chained me to my goal Here i lay before love’s conquest Chafed, and bare before the pricks and needles That stitch fate and fortune Made and maddened ill with desire For a shirt made of wire And a love made for me

Idle Steps Vol. 2, 3.13.25 “Chain Mail"

@env0writes C.Buck   Ko-Fi & Venmo: @Zenv0 Support Your Local Artists

[brittanyearnestauthor]

Developing Characters: The Heart of Your Story

Creating well-developed characters is a complex process that demands continuous practice and deeper insight. It involves tapping into your own thoughts, values, and beliefs. By using your imagination and drawing from personal experiences, you can craft characters with unique voices and emotions. Whether inspired by people in your life or entirely imagined, each character will stand out through your distinctive touch.

Often, writers realize that their characters and worlds reflect their own journeys only after making significant progress. To create believable characters, you must infuse them with life through your own experiences, thoughts, values, and beliefs. Without this personal input, your characters will lack depth and authenticity.

Writing is a powerful and personal journey, requiring the use of imagination, knowledge, and insight to make your story successful. Embrace this journey and let your characters thrive through your own unique perspective.

[brookie-writes]

The magpie and the kinglet

The magpie had for reputation, To always look perfect without any alteration, Every other bird looked up to her, They wanted to know how to be a stunner. So tonight, before the volatile party, The kinglet went to the magpie's tree, Asking if she would accept, To share her well kept secret. With a laugh, she declined, And told the kinglet she wouldn't change her mind. The small bird then pleaded calmly, For at least a piece of jewellery. In her most condescending tone she said You are brave, you are not afraid, To ask for my belongings, For my necklaces and my rings, But you would need much more than those, To conceal all of your cellulose. The kinglet, left to the party, still hurt, During a dance, she told some birds, the magpie was not very gurt, She mentionned how cruel her words were, And how much it affected her. Later that night, the magpie came, Wearing a necklace and no shame, She approached a group of larks, Trying to show off her sparks, But they gave her a look, and walked away, Leaving the magpie alone in the hallway.

[e-thonrudwrites]

As I'm editing the last bits, am I realizing that the voice/style of the WIP is basically past tense that reads like present, active, very much hitting the point.

With a 150 read books under belt (read in 2 years) I've not found a single book that matches the voice exactly.

It's both exiting and terrifying.

[eatinghemlocks]

Welcome to the old-fashioned idiot talks.

You don't have to write a main character who is good and angel-like all the time. You can write a corner-of-the-party person judging everyone character or even a narrator and I can still like it as long as you show me that they have feelings, emotions and especially their good side. The important thing in a story is the message the author is relaying on the readers through the main character actions / the narrator's storytelling.

:>

[prashasconsulting]

out these 3 essential tips to make your writing clearer, more concise, and impactful: 1️⃣ Keep it clear and simple 2️⃣ Cut the fluff — be concise 3️⃣ Organize your thoughts for a stronger flow 🧠 🔖 Don’t forget to save this for when you need a quick writing refresher! Need more tips to level up your writing? Hit Follow for weekly academic writing hacks and study strategies! 📘🚀

[fictionandreality]

Write DEEPER Characters: Unlock Depth by Questioning ORDER

Dive into the world of character development by learning how to enhance depth through questioning the established order! In this post, I’ll explore techniques that empower your characters to challenge norms, leading to richer narratives and engaging arcs. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, this approach is essential for creating compelling characters that resonate with readers. Join the writing community in sharing insights, experiences, and inspiration!

Let's transform your writing journey together!

[zardward]

So so very true

Y'all literally write fanfics like you're men. How is it that in your own fantasy world, you're not getting pleasure from it? With every reader x character, it's you pleasuring the character. Women write fanfics like how men view porn.

You're so feminist that even in your own fantasies, you think that you are ugly and that this character would never want you. So unless they're degrading, using, and beating you. That's the only true way you think that they could ever desire you.

I'm not even going to get started on the of-age-reader x underage characters because if I need to tell you why that's wrong, you need to be put on a watch list.

[theperfectread]

Part 2 of my story

“What? What’s happening tomorrow?” Rain asked, her mind running through possibilities. Was her idiotic older brother finally leaving?

Mother and Father exchanged a look, and Mother turned to Rain nervously, “Honey, please be mature about this. This is going to be good for you…”

“What is? What are you not telling me?” Rain looked around at everyone, upset. Why were they being so secretive?

Hawke patted her on the shoulder, “Don’t get mad, okay?” She nodded. “Good, Mother is sending me and you off to school. Its pretty far off, but it’ll be fun, and we’re getting too old for a governess anyway.”

The silence was deafening. Rain looked at her hands, shocked. She couldn’t make eye contact with any of them. It was so unfair. She had heard her parents talk about sending Hawke to school, but she never thought they would make her go too. They were kicking her out, they were going to drag her away, away from her friends, away from her mountains, away from everything. The full force of what was happening hit her. Anger coursed through her veins, and she could feel her face getting hot. She wasn’t going to leave. 

“Mother, I’m not going. I’ll stay here and you can teach me. I’m too  young to be going so far. Please.”

Father shook his head, “Rain, no. You’re going, its all settled. This way you’ll get a good education and you’ll have more opportunities. We wouldn’t do this if we thought it was bad for you.”

Rain raised her voice, anger clouding her mind, “You’re all, I just—ugh!” She couldn’t even string a sentence together, frustrated tears rolled down her cheeks, and she slammed her hands on the table. Hawke threw water on a small flame on the tablecloth, probably from a candle. Standing, she left the table, picking up her dress she ran up the stairs to her room. 

She fell onto her bed and sobbed into the pillow. This wasn’t happening, it couldn’t be. Rain tried to think, sitting up she wiped her eyes. She had made a fool of herself. Looking at her mirror, she touched her dress. There was small scorch marks, and more tears spilled. Her new dress…Shaking her head, Rain went to her wash basin and splashed her face with water. 

 She sat on the edge of her bed and traced the floral patterns on the comforter. She decided what to do quickly, and it seemed like a good idea. She grabbed her travel satchel and stuffed it with old dresses. Rain snuck into Hawke’s room to steal a couple old pairs of pants, and paused at the door before also swiping his old hunting dagger. He wouldn’t even miss it. Rain returned to her room and changed into pants and a tunic. She strapped the dagger to her thigh and picked up her satchel. She was ready. 

Tiptoeing down the steps, she paused outside the dining room doors and listened to her families chatter. They were discussing what last minute things they needed to buy for Hawke and her’s supplies. 

Rain moved on and quickly walked down the hall. She paused at one of the paintings of her grandmother. The painting depicted her practicing archery, and Rain was still a little surprised at how much they looked alike. The red hair, the blue eyes, the small nose, it was remarkable. Rain missed Grandmother dearly ever since she passed last year, and she still remembered each story she had ever told her. 

Rain stepped out the doors into the crisp autumn air.

[brittanyearnestauthor]

Finding Your Unique Writing Voice

Writing can be complex because there are so many ways to phrase something to mean the same thing. It can sometimes be overwhelming when you’re trying to find the right words to fill a blank document and express yourself in a way that's truly unique. This might make you want to give up, but don’t! Start small and build up, just like you do with everything else.

For example, if you're describing a cup, you could say: "The white coffee mug sat on the coffee table where Jenny left it earlier." Or: "There lies the pristine, white coffee cup that Jenny used earlier." Or even more detailed: "I glanced over at the pristine, white coffee mug that Jenny used earlier today. The soft scent of cinnamon and hazelnut still lingered in the air, bringing back memories of a happy visit."

Here's another example:

- Jay went to school on time.

- Jay made it to school on time.

- Or more detailed: Jay rushed to school after discovering his alarm didn't sound.

I personally struggle with finding the right words to say. I often second-guess my choices and change them several times until I’m more confident. This can be frustrating and cause burnout if you’re indecisive for too long.

There are many ways to write a scene. The most important thing is to find the way that best suits you. I hope this helps you as you continue your writing journey. Share your own experiences or even small descriptive pieces based on these examples. Let's grow our skills together. Happy writing!

[shajiibrahim123]

3 Ways To Publish Your Book Are you ready to turn your literary dreams into reality? 🌟 Join us on a comprehensive journey as we explore "3 Ways to Publish Your Book." Whether you're an author-to-be or simply curious about the publishing process, this video is your roadmap.

[varamacreations]

Get Paid To Write Your Book Masterclass!

🍁 ABOUT Bridgetta Tomarchio 🍁 A Celebrity Publicist, Business & Book coach, serial entrepreneur, former actress/model, &host who leverages her big business know-how into success in the entertainment industry. Raised in an entrepreneurial family, Bridgetta followed her roots and started her own publicity firm in 2007: Wadjet PR.

[liminaltey]

Tags from post:

I'm thinking of starting a Substack for posting my silly little hobby essays on food and disability advocacy. Would anyone be interested at all?