Show Don't Tell

As a Fantasy writer, it is even more important for you to know how to avoid falling into the "telling" trap? When you are reading, look for how the Fantasy authors you admire, manage to avoid the pitfalls. When you are out and about, observe. record; make notes. Give your reader an understanding of what is going on. Don't stifle their imagination. Let them use it as they traverse the landscape and characters you have created. Take for example, the statement: "Caleath was upset." Tells us, but doesn't really impress does it? How can we show the reader 'Caleath was upset?'

Let's return to our first exercise on writing creative descriptions, for a moment. Look at our character Caleath. We know he's upset! How? Share your information with your reader. Draw them into your story, so they feel they are a part of what is going on. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness, as you invite them into the world you are creating. So how do we go about doing that? How has your favorite author drawn you to their writing? Look at your character.

How do we know he's angry, sad, upset, confused, happy, or thoughtful? Describe his actions and the extent of his turmoil, by using each of your senses. (In the same way you described the objects from the last exercise.)

For Example
Caleath raked his hands through his hair and peered into the shadows with increasing anguish. He gestured with raised hands, hearing bitterness in the old mage's voice. His answer was no more than a whisper as he moved to his feet and began pacing like a caged cat. He wanted to shake the old man until his teeth rattled. Instead, he sighed with resignation. You don't need to use all of your description at once, but you now have enough to use when you begin to upgrade dialogue tags.