how to describe a smirk in creative writing

How to Describe a Smile in Writing (700 Ways & Examples)

Get ready to light up your writing with the power of a thousand smiles.

Here’s how to describe a smile in writing:

Describe a smile in writing by considering its size, shape, mood, authenticity, duration, intensity, context, appearance, recipient, timing, catalyst, eyes, teeth, lips, cheeks, surprise element, uniqueness, effect, sound, and reflection. Use vivid adjectives and metaphors.

In this guide, you’ll learn over 700 ways to describe a smile in writing – with examples.

32 Key Elements of Describing a Smile in Writing

Digital image of a woman's face smiling - How to describe a smile in writing

Table of Contents

Here is a summary list of the major elements or categories for describing a smile:

Mischeviousness
Authenticity

How to Describe the Size of the Smile

When describing the size of the smile, consider how wide or narrow it is.

The extent to which someone’s lips stretch across their face can indicate various emotions, from pure joy to polite amusement.

Words : Beaming, Broad, Wide, Small, Tight, Grinning, Radiant, Large, Wide-Eyed, Shy.

Her radiant smile stretched from ear to ear.
His shy smile barely lifted the corners of his mouth.
She had a wide-eyed smile, full of excitement.
He wore a small, polite smile.
Her beaming smile was contagious.
He had a tight-lipped smile, revealing nothing.
Her grinning smile was infectious.
His broad smile showed all his teeth.
Her large smile illuminated her face.
His wide smile conveyed his joy.

How to Describe the Mood of the Smile

The mood behind a smile can be a powerful tool in conveying the character’s feelings.

It can range from happy to sad, anxious to calm, or even from mysterious to straightforward.

Words : Joyful, Gloomy, Nervous, Relaxed, Mysterious, Cheerful, Downcast, Excited, Anxious, Content.

His joyful smile lit up the room.
Her gloomy smile revealed her sorrow.
The nervous smile hinted at his unease.
She had a relaxed smile, comfortable and content.
His mysterious smile left her puzzled.
Her cheerful smile brought warmth to everyone.
His downcast smile was barely noticeable.
She wore an excited smile, anticipating the news.
His anxious smile betrayed his calm demeanor.
Her content smile exuded peace.

How to Describe the Bitterness in the Smile

A bitter smile can be used to describe a situation or a feeling that is harsh, unpleasant, or distasteful.

It’s often a sign of sarcasm, cynicism, or disappointment.

It’s a complex emotion, often indicating underlying frustration or resentment.

Words : Sharp, Ironic, Sarcastic, Disdainful, Cynical, Sardonic, Mocking, Resentful, Jeering, Displeased.

His sharp smile was a clear signal of his displeasure.
Her ironic smile didn’t hide her disappointment.
His sarcastic smile said more than his words.
Her disdainful smile made him rethink his actions.
His cynical smile showed his disbelief.
Her sardonic smile was an unspoken critique.
His mocking smile made her feel small.
Her resentful smile was a clear indication of her frustration.
His jeering smile made her blood boil.
Her displeased smile made everyone uncomfortable.

How to Describe the Humor in the Smile

When humor is captured in a smile, it reflects amusement, irony, or joy at something funny.

This type of smile can demonstrate a character’s light-hearted nature or a moment of levity in a serious situation.

Words : Amused, Tickled, Jocular, Waggish, Comic, Funny, Entertaining, Laughing, Chortling, Chuckling.

Her amused smile showed she was in on the joke.
His tickled smile made her laugh out loud.
She wore a jocular smile, her eyes twinkling with mirth.
His waggish smile showed his playful side.
Her comic smile was infectious, making everyone else smile.
His funny smile lightened the mood in the room.
Her smile kept the group engaged and entertained.
His laughing smile was a clear sign of his amusement.
Her chortling smile made everyone else laugh along.
His chuckling smile was his way of sharing a private joke.

How to Describe the Chilliness of the Smile

A chilly smile is often used to portray distance, aloofness, or cold indifference.

It is a controlled expression that communicates detachment and can imply a lack of genuine warmth or emotion.

Words : Icy, Cool, Detached, Frigid, Frosty, Unfeeling, Cold, Reserved, Standoffish, Guarded.

Her icy smile made the room feel colder.
His cool smile revealed nothing of what he was thinking.
Her detached smile was a shield against the world.
His frigid smile sent chills down her spine.
Her frosty smile was as unwelcoming as a winter storm.
His unfeeling smile was a mask hiding his emotions.
Her cold smile was devoid of warmth.
His reserved smile barely showed on his face.
Her standoffish smile kept everyone at arm’s length.
His guarded smile was his protective armor.

How to Describe the Warmth of the Smile

A warm smile conveys kindness, friendliness, and genuine happiness.

It’s the kind of smile that makes people feel at ease and is often associated with affectionate and caring characters.

Words : Affectionate, Welcoming, Comforting, Soft, Tender, Loving, Kind, Inviting, Radiant, Heartfelt.

Her affectionate smile made him feel at home.
His smile welcomed the guests and put them at ease.
Her comforting smile was a balm to his anxiety.
His soft smile made her heart flutter.
Her smile, a tender and wordless expression of love.
His loving smile filled the room with warmth.
Her kind smile made everyone feel loved.
His inviting smile made her feel welcomed.
Her radiant smile could light up the darkest room.
His heartfelt smile showed his genuine happiness.

How to Describe the Joy in the Smile

A smile that contains joy is vibrant, contagious, and illuminates a character’s face.

It can reveal their happiness, their excitement, or their satisfaction, and can make your reader feel uplifted.

Words : Beaming, Gleaming, Glowing, Sparkling, Twinkling, Elated, Exultant, Ecstatic, Radiant, Delighted.

Her smile beamed like a beacon of joy.
His gleaming smile reflected his happiness.
Her glowing smile was like sunshine on a cloudy day.
His smile brightened the room.
Her twinkling smile was a reflection of her happiness.
His elated smile couldn’t be hidden.
Her exultant smile was a silent cheer.
His ecstatic smile was contagious.
Her smile was radiant and heartwarming.
His delighted smile made her heart sing.

How to Describe the Sadness Behind the Smile

A smile can also be used to mask sadness.

Describing a smile with hidden sadness can provide insight into your character’s inner turmoil and create emotional depth.

Words : Forced, Pained, Strained, Hollow, Fading, Wistful, Distant, Bittersweet, Teary, Masked.

Her forced smile couldn’t hide her heartache.
His pained smile was a poor disguise for his sadness.
Her strained smile was evidence of her inner turmoil.
His hollow smile was a facsimile of happiness.
Her fading smile was like a sunset, beautiful yet sad.
His wistful smile spoke of lost times.
Her distant smile was as far away as her thoughts.
His bittersweet smile mingled joy with sorrow.
Her teary smile was a poignant mix of happiness and grief.
His masked smile was a shield against his pain.

How to Describe the Charm in the Smile

A charming smile can be disarming and irresistible, often associated with charismatic and confident characters.

It’s an expression that can captivate others and make your character more likable.

Words : Captivating, Beguiling, Enchanting, Alluring, Irresistible, Mesmerizing, Winsome, Magnetic, Dazzling, Enticing.

Her captivating smile was utterly irresistible.
His beguiling smile could melt even the coldest heart.
Her enchanting smile made her all the more desirable.
His alluring smile was his greatest weapon.
Her irresistible smile drew him in.
His mesmerizing smile held her attention.
Her winsome smile won everyone over.
His magnetic smile drew all eyes to him.
Her dazzling smile outshone everything else.
His enticing smile promised exciting adventures.

How to Describe the Mischievousness of the Smile

A mischievous smile can communicate a playful intent, a naughty plan, or a cheeky joke.

It’s often used to create suspense or to reveal a character’s playful side.

Words : Playful, Scheming, Cheeky, Wicked, Roguish, Sly, Prankish, Impish, Naughty, Devilish.

Her playful smile was a hint of the fun to come.
His scheming smile promised a world of trouble.
Her cheeky smile revealed her wicked sense of humor.
His wicked smile was a sign of the mischief brewing.
Her roguish smile was a sly invitation to join the fun.
His sly smile was a clue to his prank.
Her prankish smile was full of impish delight.
His impish smile was irresistible.
Her naughty smile hinted at her devilish plan.
His devilish smile was a charming mask for his mischief.

How to Describe the Mystery in the Smile

A mysterious smile can hint at secrets, intrigue, or hidden depths within a character.

]It’s a great way to create suspense and keep your readers guessing.

Words : Enigmatic, Cryptic, Puzzling, Elusive, Secretive, Unfathomable, Sphinxlike, Veiled, Insidious, Covert.

Her enigmatic smile held a world of secrets.
His cryptic smile was a puzzle waiting to be solved.
Her puzzling smile left him wondering.
His elusive smile hinted at hidden depths.
Her secretive smile kept her intentions hidden.
His unfathomable smile was a silent riddle.
Her sphinxlike smile was as enigmatic as she was.
His veiled smile concealed his true feelings.
Her insidious smile held an ominous promise.
His covert smile was a hint of the intrigue to come.

How to Describe the Innocence in the Smile

An innocent smile is pure, sincere, and free from deceit.

It’s often associated with children, characters with a pure heart, or those experiencing joy for the first time.

Words : Pure, Childlike, Naive, Untainted, Sincere, Genuine, Trusting, Unspoiled, Fresh, Clear.

Her pure smile was a ray of sunshine.
His childlike smile brought out the kid in everyone.
Her naive smile revealed her innocence.
His untainted smile was a breath of fresh air.
Her sincere smile was as real as it gets.
His genuine smile showed his true feelings.
Her trusting smile made him want to protect her.
His unspoiled smile was a sign of his innocence.
Her fresh smile was as revitalizing as a spring breeze.
His clear smile was as transparent as his heart.

How to Describe the Passion in the Smile

A passionate smile can reveal strong emotions, a burning desire, or a deep love.

It can be used to show the intensity of your character’s feelings and create an emotionally charged moment.

Words : Fiery, Intense, Aflame, Burning, Feverish, Ardent, Zealous, Fervent, Eager, Enthusiastic.

Her fiery smile was a testament to her passion.
His intense smile reflected his fervor.
Her aflame smile ignited his heart.
His burning smile was a beacon of his desire.
Her feverish smile revealed her intense longing.
His ardent smile was a sign of his passion.
Her zealous smile was a mirror of her enthusiasm.
His fervent smile conveyed his excitement.
Her eager smile was a sign of her anticipation.
His enthusiastic smile was infectious.

How to Describe the Tenderness in the Smile

A tender smile can reflect affection, gentleness, or deep love.

It’s a powerful way to show the soft side of your character and can create a heartfelt moment.

Words : Gentle, Soft, Fond, Sweet, Affectionate, Warm, Adoring, Loving, Compassionate, Caring.

Her gentle smile was soothing.
His soft smile was a comfort in the chaos.
Her fond smile was a silent confession of love.
His sweet smile was a balm to her heart.
Her affectionate smile was like a warm hug.
His warm smile melted her worries away.
Her adoring smile showed her deep love for him.
His loving smile was a reassurance of his affection.
Her compassionate smile was a source of solace.
His caring smile made her feel protected.

How to Describe the Confidence in the Smile

A confident smile can show self-assuredness, bravery, or determination.

It’s a great way to show your character’s strength and can be a motivating force for other characters.

Words : Assured, Brave, Bold, Dauntless, Fearless, Resolute, Determined, Self-confident, Strong, Unshakeable.

Her assured smile was a sign of her confidence.
His brave smile was a source of inspiration.
Her bold smile was a challenge to the world.
His dauntless smile reflected his courage.
Her fearless smile was a beacon of strength.
His resolute smile was an assurance of his determination.
Her determined smile was a testament to her resolve.
His self-confident smile was a reflection of his self-assuredness.
Her strong smile was a symbol of her resilience.
His unshakeable smile conveyed his faith in his abilities.

How to Describe the Authenticity of the Smile

An authentic smile is one that genuinely reflects a character’s happiness or amusement.

It’s spontaneous, natural, and comes from the heart, effectively expressing the character’s true feelings.

Words : Genuine, Sincere, Heartfelt, Spontaneous, True, Real, Honest, Natural, Unfeigned, Authentic.

Her genuine smile was as real as her joy.
His sincere smile showed his heartfelt happiness.
Her spontaneous smile reflected her authentic joy.
His true smile was an honest expression of his feelings.
Her real smile was natural and unfeigned.
His honest smile showed his true emotions.
Her natural smile was as refreshing as a summer breeze.
His unfeigned smile reflected his genuine pleasure.
Her authentic smile revealed her true happiness.

How to Describe the Duration of the Smile

The duration of the smile can convey different emotions.

A fleeting smile may suggest shyness, while a lingering smile can express deep contentment or fondness.

Words : Fleeting, Brief, Momentary, Lingering, Lasting, Enduring, Prolonged, Sustained, Extended, Permanent.

Her fleeting smile was a flash of joy.
His brief smile was a momentary glimpse of happiness.
Her momentary smile was as brief as a shooting star.
His lingering smile revealed his deep contentment.
Her lasting smile was a sign of her enduring joy.
His enduring smile was a testament to his happiness.
Her prolonged smile was a reflection of her sustained pleasure.
His sustained smile was a symbol of his extended happiness.
Her extended smile was a permanent feature of her joyful face.
His permanent smile was a hallmark of his cheerful disposition.

How to Describe the Intensity of the Smile

The intensity of a smile can add drama to your writing.

A faint smile may suggest a hint of amusement or pleasure, while a broad smile indicates overwhelming joy or delight.

Words : Faint, Mild, Subtle, Broad, Wide, Beaming, Radiant, Brilliant, Dazzling, Resplendent.

Her faint smile was a subtle sign of her amusement.
His mild smile was a hint of his pleasure.
Her subtle smile was a whisper of joy.
His broad smile was a loud laugh of delight.
Her wide smile was an open book of happiness.
His beaming smile was a radiant display of joy.
Her radiant smile was a brilliant show of delight.
His brilliant smile was a dazzling display of joy.
Her dazzling smile was a resplendent manifestation of her happiness.
His resplendent smile was a magnificent spectacle of joy.

How to Describe the Context of the Smile

The context of the smile can influence its meaning.

A comforting smile in a sad situation can express empathy, while a victorious smile after a challenging event can signal triumph.

Words : Comforting, Consoling, Sympathetic, Encouraging, Triumphant, Victorious, Jubilant, Reassuring, Supportive, Understanding.

Her comforting smile was a consoling gesture in the face of sorrow.
His consoling smile was a sympathetic sign of empathy.
Her sympathetic smile was an encouraging boost in a challenging situation.
His encouraging smile was a triumphant declaration of victory.
Her triumphant smile was a victorious expression of joy.
His victorious smile was a jubilant sign of success.
Her jubilant smile was a reassuring gesture of support.
His reassuring smile was a supportive expression of understanding.
Her supportive smile was a sympathetic sign of her understanding.
His understanding smile was a comforting symbol of empathy.

How to Describe the Appearance of the Smile

The physical appearance of a character’s smile can say a lot about their personality or mood.

A crooked smile might suggest quirkiness, while a bright smile could indicate cheerfulness.

Words : Crooked, Bright, Wide, Thin, Radiant, Shy, Warm, Toothless, Sparkling, Faint.

Her crooked smile revealed her quirky charm.
His bright smile was a beacon of positivity.
Her wide smile spread across her face like a warm sunrise.
His thin smile was a barely noticeable sign of his satisfaction.
His shy smile was a sweet token of his modesty.
Her warm smile was as comforting as a cup of hot cocoa.
His toothless smile was an endearing image of innocence.
Her sparkling smile was a dazzling display of her joy.
His faint smile was a subtle expression of his contentment.

How to Describe the Recipient of the Smile

The recipient of the smile can provide context to the relationship dynamics.

A reserved smile for a stranger might indicate caution, while a loving smile for a partner shows deep affection.

Words : Reserved, Friendly, Loving, Professional, Shy, Devoted, Adoring, Familial, Warm, Respectful.

Her reserved smile for the stranger was a sign of her cautious nature.
His friendly smile for his new neighbor displayed his amiable personality.
Her loving smile for her partner was a testament to her deep affection.
His professional smile for his clients showed his dedication to his work.
Her shy smile for her crush revealed her hidden feelings.
His devoted smile for his wife showed his deep love.
Her adoring smile for her children was heartwarming.
His familial smile for his siblings was filled with love and warmth.
Her warm smile for her friends reflected her genial nature.
His respectful smile for his mentor was a sign of his admiration.

How to Describe the Timing of the Smile

The timing of the smile can create suspense or provide comic relief.

An unexpected smile can surprise readers, while a well-timed smile can add depth to a scene.

Words : Unexpected, Timely, Early, Late, Anticipatory, Delayed, Premature, Protracted, Sudden, Gradual.

Her unexpected smile in the midst of tension surprised everyone.
His timely smile was a perfect reaction to the amusing incident.
Her early smile hinted at the good news before it was announced.
His late smile revealed his slow understanding of the joke.
Her anticipatory smile showed her excitement for the upcoming event.
His delayed smile was a sign of his thoughtful nature.
Her premature smile revealed her expectation before the result was declared.
His protracted smile indicated his lingering amusement.
Her sudden smile was a delightful surprise.
His gradual smile was a slow revelation of his happiness.

How to Describe the Catalyst of the Smile

The catalyst of a smile can provide insight into a character’s values and interests.

A smile prompted by a loved one’s success can indicate selflessness, while a smile sparked by personal achievement demonstrates pride.

Words : Prompted, Sparked, Ignited, Triggered, Provoked, Stimulated, Incited, Aroused, Instigated, Excited.

Her smile was promptly sparked by her friend’s achievement.
His smile was ignited by the sight of the delicious feast.
Her smile was triggered by the memory of her childhood.
His smile was provoked by the joke he remembered.
Her smile was stimulated by the sight of her pet.
His smile was incited by her unexpected compliment.
Her smile was aroused by his thoughtful gesture.
His smile was instigated by her witty comment.
Her smile was excited by the prospect of the upcoming vacation.

How to Describe the Eyes During the Smile

The eyes during a smile can express a range of emotions.

A smile that reaches the eyes can convey genuine happiness, while squinting eyes can suggest intense joy or amusement.

Words : Gleaming, Squinting, Sparkling, Bright, Shimmering, Twinkling, Radiant, Shining, Glittering, Beaming.

Her gleaming eyes complemented her joyous smile.
His squinting eyes accompanied his laughter-filled smile.
Her sparkling eyes echoed the brightness of her smile.
His bright eyes matched his cheerful smile.
Her shimmering eyes reflected the radiance of her smile.
His twinkling eyes were the stars that illuminated his happy smile.
Her radiant eyes mirrored her beaming smile.
His shining eyes highlighted the brilliance of his smile.
Her glittering eyes accentuated her resplendent smile.
His beaming eyes paired perfectly with his joyful smile.

How to Describe the Teeth in the Smile

The visibility of teeth in a smile can show the character’s openness or enthusiasm.

A toothy smile can express extreme happiness or excitement, while a closed-mouth smile can indicate modesty or restraint.

Words : Toothy, Closed-mouth, Broad, Thin, Grinning, Gleaming, Whitened, Sparkling, Straight, Crooked.

Her toothy smile was a loud proclamation of her joy.
His closed-mouth smile was a sign of his modest happiness.
Her broad smile revealed a gleaming set of white teeth.
His thin smile barely showcased his sparkling teeth.
Her grinning smile flashed her straight, white teeth.
His gleaming smile was accentuated by his whitened teeth.
Her sparkling smile was enhanced by her straight teeth.
His straight smile was a testament to his orthodontist.
Her crooked smile, despite its imperfection, was endearing.

How to Describe the Lips During the Smile

The shape and movement of lips during a smile can indicate various emotions.

Upturned lips can show happiness, while a tight-lipped smile might suggest suppressed amusement or restrained joy.

Words : Upturned, Tight-lipped, Broad, Thin, Curled, Puckered, Stretched, Quirky, Relaxed, Soft.

Her upturned lips indicated her inner joy.
His tight-lipped smile suggested suppressed amusement.
Her broad smile stretched across her face in unabashed happiness.
His thin smile was a subtle expression of his joy.
Her curled lips were a sign of her mischievous smile.
His puckered lips were an unusual accompaniment to his smile.
Her stretched smile showcased her ecstatic joy.
His quirky smile was characterized by his uniquely curled lips.
Her relaxed smile and soft lips were a testament to her contentment.

How to Describe the Cheeks in the Smile

The cheeks can play a significant role in a smile.

High, rosy cheeks can indicate robust health and youthful joy, while dimpled cheeks add charm to the smile.

Words : Rosy, High, Dimpled, Plump, Hollow, Chubby, Sunken, Soft, Rounded, Apple.

Her rosy cheeks bloomed like spring roses when she smiled.
His high cheeks gave a noble lift to his smile.
Her dimpled cheeks were the stars of her beautiful smile.
His plump cheeks radiated warmth when he smiled.
Her hollow cheeks deepened dramatically when she smiled.
His chubby cheeks were irresistibly cute when he smiled.
Her sunken cheeks gave a unique character to her smile.
His soft cheeks glowed with happiness when he smiled.
Her rounded cheeks perfectly framed her smile.
His apple cheeks turned rosy when he smiled.

How to Describe the Surprise Element in a Smile

A surprising smile can add a delightful twist to a scene.

An unexpected smile in a tense situation can break the tension, while a surprising grin in response to bad news can add complexity to a character.

Words : Unexpected, Sudden, Shocking, Astonishing, Startling, Surprising, Unanticipated, Abrupt, Unforeseen, Spontaneous.

Her unexpected smile in the midst of the argument broke the tension.
His sudden grin added a lighthearted twist to the serious scene.
Her shocking smile in response to the bad news surprised everyone.
His astonishing grin in the face of danger was startling.
Her surprising smile gave away her hidden amusement.
His unanticipated smile revealed his mysterious side.
Her abrupt smile broke the silence.
His unforeseen grin surprised everyone in the room.
Her spontaneous smile lifted everyone’s spirits.

How to Describe the Uniqueness of the Smile

Every character’s smile is unique and tells us something about them.

A crooked smile might reveal a playful personality, while a serene smile might indicate a calm and patient character.

Words : Unique, Distinct, Distinguished, Notable, Remarkable, Special, Exclusive, Exceptional, Individual, Singular.

Her unique smile was a beautiful reflection of her spirit.
His distinct grin was as recognizable as his voice.
Her distinguished smile was a notable trait of her character.
His remarkable smile was a special feature that set him apart.
Her special smile was exclusive to her close friends.
His exclusive smile was an exceptional facet of his personality.
Her exceptional smile was a symbol of her individuality.
His individual smile was a singular expression of his character.
Her singular smile was a unique attribute that made her stand out.

How to Describe the Effect of the Smile

The effect of a character’s smile on others can show their impact or influence.

A warm smile that lifts others’ spirits can show a character’s empathetic nature, while a contagious smile can spread happiness.

Words : Warm, Contagious, Inspirational, Uplifting, Comforting, Reassuring, Encouraging, Heartening, Soothing, Enlivening.

Her warm smile always managed to brighten the room.
His contagious smile spread joy like wildfire.
Her inspirational smile uplifted everyone’s spirits.
His uplifting smile was a comforting presence in hard times.
Her comforting smile provided a reassuring sense of calm.
His reassuring smile encouraged everyone to keep going.
Her encouraging smile was a heartening sight in challenging times.
His heartening smile was as soothing as a lullaby.
Her soothing smile had an enlivening effect on everyone.

How to Describe the Sound of the Smile

Though silent, a smile can have a perceived “sound.”

A resonant smile may evoke the echo of laughter, while a silent smile can express quiet joy.

Words : Silent, Loud, Soft, Resonant, Ringing, Echoing, Quiet, Vibrant, Whispering, Roaring.

Her silent smile was a picture of serene joy.
His loud smile was as resonant as his laughter.
Her soft smile was a quiet reflection of her happiness.
His resonant smile was a vibrant echo of his joy.
Her ringing smile was a testament to her vibrant personality.
His echoing smile was like a roaring laugh that filled the room.
Her quiet smile was a whispering testament to her inner peace.
His vibrant smile was a loud proclamation of his happiness.
Her whispering smile was a silent declaration of her joy.
His roaring smile was a loud affirmation of his delight.

How to Describe the Reflection of the Smile

A smile can often be a mirror of a character’s inner feelings.

A radiant smile can reflect joy, while a sad smile can reveal hidden sorrow.

Words : Radiant, Sad, Reflective, Mirror-like, Revealing, Echoing, Transparent, Illuminating, Shimmering, Glowing.

Her radiant smile reflected her immense joy.
His sad smile was a mirror-like reflection of his hidden sorrow.
Her reflective smile revealed her inner thoughts.
His mirror-like smile was a revealing echo of his feelings.
Her revealing smile was a transparent indication of her happiness.
His echoing smile illuminated his joy.
Her transparent smile was a shimmering reflection of her delight.
His illuminating smile was a glowing representation of his happiness.
Her shimmering smile radiated her joy.
His glowing smile reflected his inner peace.

How to Describe a Beautiful Smile

A beautiful smile can captivate the reader and create a lasting impression.

It can reveal character depth, set the tone of a scene, and encapsulate emotions like happiness, peace, and joy.

Words : Radiant, Captivating, Dazzling, Enchanting, Mesmerizing, Breathtaking, Gorgeous, Heavenly, Exquisite, Stunning.

Her radiant smile was like a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day.
His captivating smile had the power to disarm the most guarded heart.
Her dazzling smile was a lighthouse in the vast sea of faces.
His enchanting smile was an open invitation to a world of warmth and charm.
Her mesmerizing smile was a breathtaking spectacle that no one could ignore.
His gorgeous smile was a heavenly sight that warmed every heart.
Her exquisite smile was a stunning display of joy and warmth.
His stunning smile was a testament to his joyous soul.

How to Describe a Fake Smile

A fake smile can convey a variety of underlying emotions, such as discomfort, insincerity, or hidden motives.

It can offer a glimpse into a character’s struggles, deceit, or internal conflicts.

Words : Forced, Plastic, Insincere, Feigned, Unconvincing, Mechanical, Hollow, Perfunctory, Strained, Stiff.

Her forced smile couldn’t mask her discomfort.
His plastic smile was a thin veneer over his obvious displeasure.
Her insincere smile didn’t reach her eyes.
His feigned smile was unconvincing to those who knew him well.
Her mechanical smile was an empty reflection of her inner turmoil.
His hollow smile echoed his underlying discomfort.
Her perfunctory smile was a strained attempt to seem pleased.
His strained smile betrayed his struggle to maintain the facade.
Her stiff smile was a stark contrast to her usually warm expressions.

How to Describe a Creepy Smile

A creepy smile can create tension and suspense in your writing.

It can indicate danger, malice, or eeriness, adding depth and dimension to your characters.

Words : Eerie, Sinister, Chilling, Unsettling, Disturbing, Creepy, Spooky, Menacing, Malicious, Ominous.

Her eerie smile sent a chill down his spine.
His sinister smile was a chilling prelude to the upcoming danger.
Her unsettling smile left a disturbing impression.
His disturbing smile was a creepy contrast to his friendly demeanor.
Her spooky smile was menacing in the dim light.
His menacing smile held a malicious promise.
Her malicious smile was an ominous sign of her dark intentions.
His ominous smile created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.

How to Describe a Sleepy Smile

A sleepy smile can convey warmth, comfort, and tranquility.

It’s often a soft, dreamy expression that indicates contentment and relaxation.

Words : Dreamy, Drowsy, Content, Peaceful, Serene, Blissful, Yawning, Languid, Slumberous, Comforting.

Her dreamy smile reflected the peace she felt.
His drowsy smile was a comforting sight before bedtime.
Her content smile was a serene end to a long day.
His peaceful smile mirrored his inner calm.
Her serene smile was a blissful sight amidst the chaos.
His blissful smile, punctuated by a yawn, was a testament to his satisfaction.
Her yawning smile signaled the end of an exciting day.
His languid smile was a soothing sight before sleep.
Her slumberous smile was the perfect invitation to a good night’s sleep.
His comforting smile was the last thing she saw before falling asleep.

How to Describe a Kid Smiling

Children’s smiles can convey a sense of innocence, joy, and wonder.

They are often full of life, reflecting the child’s curiosity and excitement.

Words : Innocent, Joyful, Gleeful, Beaming, Radiant, Carefree, Sunny, Mirthful, Playful, Enthusiastic.

Her innocent smile was a reminder of the pure joy of childhood.
His joyful grin was contagious, spreading happiness all around.
Her gleeful smile was a clear reflection of her excitement.
His beaming smile was as radiant as the sun.
Her radiant smile filled the room with a carefree spirit.
His carefree smile was as sunny as a summer day.
Her sunny smile was a mirthful expression of her playful nature.
His mirthful smile was a playful invitation to join the fun.
Her playful smile was a clear sign of her enthusiasm.
His enthusiastic smile was as infectious as his laughter.

How to Describe a Smile By Genre

Here are three examples of how to describe a smile in writing by genre:

Romance Novel

In the soft, golden light of the setting sun, Annabelle and Thomas found themselves lost in a dance of smiles.

Thomas’s eyes twinkled, reflecting the radiant orange sky as a warm, captivating smile spread across his face. It was an open invitation to a world of warmth, charm, and unspoken promises that made Annabelle’s heart flutter.

In response, Annabelle’s lips curled into a breathtakingly exquisite smile that was a testament to her burgeoning love for him.

The intensity of her smile heightened as she brushed her hand against his, her cheeks flushing a deeper shade of red. But then, Thomas’ grin morphed into an unsettling, insincere smile, hinting at a concealed secret.

Annabelle’s heart skipped a beat, her smile wavering at the edges, as she wondered what lay behind his sudden change.

Mystery Novel

As the room fell into a tense silence, Detective Arnold and suspect Lily engaged in a silent battle of smiles.

Arnold, with his piercing gaze, wore a forced smile that strained against his rugged features.

It was a mechanical gesture, masking his suspicion and distrust. Across from him, Lily’s radiant smile flickered and shifted. One moment, it was enchanting and captivating, cleverly designed to disarm him.

The next, it became eerie and unsettling, a chilling prelude to the secrets she was hiding.

The oscillation of her smile — from charming to creepy — was a disturbing dance that added a new layer of complexity to the unfolding mystery.

Horror Novel

In the flickering candlelight of the haunted mansion, Emma and the ghastly figure engaged in a spine-chilling exchange of smiles.

Emma, despite her fear, mustered a stiff, forced smile, a feeble attempt to hide her dread. Her lips felt heavy as if the air around her was saturated with fear, making it hard for her to maintain the facade.

In response, the spectral figure flashed a sinister, chilling smile, casting an eerie glow that seemed to consume the dwindling candlelight.

The ghastly entity’s smile was not of this world; it was a malicious, menacing grin that reflected the darkness within it.

Emma’s blood turned to ice as the figure’s smile stretched wider, revealing a row of sharp, gleaming teeth.

It was a spine-tingling sight that transformed her forced smile into a silent scream.

Here is a good video about how to describe a smile in writing:

Final Thoughts: How to Describe a Smile in Writing

As you can see, there are almost limitless ways to describe smiles in writing.

Know your purpose, character, theme, and what you want the reader to feel. Connect it all in your description of the smile.

For some tools on describing smiles (and more) in writing, try some of my favorite tools:

How to Describe a City in Writing (100+ Best Examples)
How To Describe a Panic Attack in Writing (Ultimate Guide)
How to Describe Voices in Writing (300+ Words & Examples)
How To Write a Scream (Ultimate Guide + 20 Good Examples)
How To Describe Hands In Writing (100+ Examples & Words)

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Writing Tips

Friday, January 18, 2019

Alternative ways to describe character reactions.

how to describe a smirk in creative writing

1. Don’t worry about it during a first draft

2. do a reaction revision pass, 3. don’t feel you have to change everything.

Option One: The floor above creaked. She tensed. Option Two: The floor above creaked. Her hand flew to her throat, fingers trembling though the rest of her coiled tight. What was that? Was someone in the house?

4. Take the character into consideration

Understand when to tell and when to show
Spot common red flag words often found in told prose
Learn why one single rule doesn't apply to all books
Determine how much telling is acceptable in your writing
Fix stale or flat prose holding your writing back

24 comments:

This is an excellent list and I definitely agree with the use of placeholder words. I'm currently revising some of my earlier chapters and mixing things up a bit. Here's my story. Something I saw on the subway this evening: She texted. He watched. She texted. He waited. She noticed. They smiled.

This comment has been removed by the author.

Lovely post, Janice! And I'll add that this is timely. The agents and editors at the SCBWI-NY conference last weekend pointed out that they are tired of seeing hearts, stomachs, guts, etc. jerking, beating, clenching or whatever else. They urge us to find more original ways to reference even visceral reactions!

Great post. Something I definitely need to examine in my 2nd draft, I definitely used place-holders in the 1st draft. My story: He laughed. She blushed. He smiled. She sighed. He leaned. She tensed. He hesitated. They kissed.

This is such a good lesson! Thanks! I retired. I relaxed. I golfed. I tinkered. I missed. I struggled. I worked. She left.

I have to shake my head recognizing so many of these things in my work, especially the first draft. Let me see if I can figure something out. They bumped. He flinched. She jumped. He smiled. She blushed. She leaned. He held. They sighed.

Hey Janice Thanks for the post, really useful stuff. I hadn't come across the idea of placeholder words before, but it's a fantastic concept. I don't mind reaching for the thesaurus, but it can take me out of the flow, so this should help. Point 2 is also a great help for editing. I'm still learning effective ways to edit and this seems like a good one. Thanks again Mike p.s. Sorry to be annoying, but where's number 3?!:) p.p.s. He ran, he stumbled, he gasped. She laughed, she turned. He fell. He sobbed. She rejoiced.

Janice, what a fun invitation. What a great way to get me to leave a comment :) Here's my attempt: Fists clenches. Belly burns. Eyes widen. No, no. Can’t be. Go away. Head hurts. Thoughts flying. Helter-skelter. “Stay back.” Rubs temple. Rubs gooseflesh. Rubs, rubs. “Respect me.”

My characters are either smiley, nodding bobbleheads or shifty-eyed devils during my first draft. This post is an excellent reminder not to fuss over certain favorites during the drafting process! Here's my little story. She primped. I ogled. She blushed. I tittered. She snorted. I gasped.

Your posts are always really helpful. Thanks for posting. :D Here is my attempt: He smiled. She blushed. He talked. She listened. He asked. She told. Good Friends. Not enough. She fell. He didn't. Broken Heart. Moving on. Lost chances. Bitter regrets. Lost friendship. Nothing left.

Thanks for another great post. Here's mine: She shivered. He smirked. She glared. He laughed. She turned. He advanced. She stopped. He pleaded. She refused. He cajoled. She sighed. She smiled.

As always your spot on suggestions helped improve my manuscript. Each gem highlights another weakness and makes it strong. Here is a little story about a six year old's bad moment: I lied, Mom glared, I hid, Mom discovered, I cried, Mom lectured, I apologized, Mom smiled.

Hi Janice, Thank you for giving me permission to use "place holder" words. I love that expression. Now I won't scowl at my writing anymore. I'm up for the challenge. He scowled. I pouted. He shouted. I balled. He smirked. I stomped. He chuckled. I giggled. He puckered. We smooched.

Great post, very useful. Here's my story. She murmured. He listened. She sighed. He gasped. She died. He wept.

That detail that different people react to things differently can't be overstated. My brother wears his emotions on his sleeves. I…don't. I get called "reserved", just due to how I keep my reactions controlled and mild. (My parents mock me that my eyes lighting up and me saying "Ooo!" mean I'm very, very excited about a present.) Different people react differently to the selfsame emotion—and folks can have the selfsame reaction to different emotions, which can be fodder for character misunderstandings. As for my mini story, hmm… She grinned. He scowled. She pointed. He zipped. She smirked. He sighed.

I searched, I found, I read, she inspired, I pondered, I gave, I hoped, she chose... This is such a fun idea, not to mention a great place to learn. Thank you.

I run into this problem all the time. I like your idea of place holders, so I can get the story out. I use the Synonym Finder - way better than the average thesaurus and the Emotional Thesaurus. Love that Emotional Thesaurus. Dad shook. "Not her." Tears flooded. Mom convulsed. "Our baby." Cold fingers. Closed eyes. Shared sobs.

She cried. Blood Pouring. He laughed. “Why Jacob?” She asked. “Everyone dies.” Looking back. She’d known. “I forgive…” she bagan. “No Mom.” He said. “I’m sorry.” He grunted. Falling down. She’d known. Yet failed. Locked up. Needed help. She failed.

Another great post Janice! Love this contest. Below is my submission. He lied. She knew. He recanted. She listened. He cried. She watched. He apologized. She left.

Thanks for the great post. Here's my mini: I delivered. Someone groaned. Eyes rolled. Crowd ruthless. Joke butchered. Hopes dashed. I bolted.

Your advice on this is fantastic! Here's mine for the fun :) They bumped. She apologized. He flirted. She blushed. He stared. She avoided. He stalked.

thank you so much. this is such a big help

Describing a Smile in Writing: A Guide with Creative Examples

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Describing a smile in writing can be a challenging task for any writer. It requires a certain level of creativity and attention to detail to accurately convey the emotions and feelings behind a smile. Whether it’s a shy smile, a mischievous grin, or a warm and welcoming smile, each one tells a unique story.

To help writers master the art of describing a smile, this guide provides 700 creative examples that can be used as a reference. From the subtle nuances of a half-smile to the infectious joy of a full-blown laugh, this guide covers it all. It also includes tips and tricks for using descriptive language effectively to bring a smile to life on the page.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, this guide is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their writing skills. Describing a smile may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big impact on the overall tone and mood of a piece of writing. With this guide, writers can confidently capture the essence of a smile and bring their characters to life.

The Anatomy of a Smile

A smile is one of the most powerful and universal expressions of emotion. It can convey a range of emotions, from joy and happiness to amusement and contentment. Understanding the anatomy of a smile can help writers accurately describe this expression in their writing .

Facial Muscles and Expressions

A smile is created by the movement of several facial muscles, including the zygomaticus major, orbicularis oculi, and levator labii superioris. These muscles work together to pull the lips upward and outward, exposing the teeth and creating a pleasant expression.

In addition to the movement of the facial muscles, a smile is also characterized by the expression in the eyes. A genuine smile will cause the muscles around the eyes to contract, creating crow’s feet and a bright, warm expression.

Types of Smiles

There are many different types of smiles, each with its unique characteristics and meanings. Some common types of smiles include:

The gentle smile: This is a soft, understated smile that conveys a sense of warmth and kindness. It is often accompanied by a slight upward tilt of the head.
The broad smile: This is a wide, open smile that exposes the teeth and conveys a sense of happiness and joy. It is often accompanied by a boisterous laugh.
The soft smile: This is a subtle, gentle smile that conveys a sense of contentment and peace. It is often accompanied by a relaxed posture and a soft, soothing voice.
The radiant smile: This is a bright, glowing smile that conveys a sense of excitement and enthusiasm. It is often accompanied by a wide-eyed expression and animated gestures.

When describing a smile in writing , it is important to consider the type of smile being expressed and the emotions it conveys. By paying attention to the movement of the facial muscles and the expression in the eyes, writers can accurately capture the essence of a smile and bring their characters to life.

Emotions Behind Smiles

Smiling is a universal expression of joy, happiness, and contentment. However, a smile can also convey a range of other emotions that may not be immediately apparent. Understanding the emotions behind a smile can help you better interpret the feelings of the person you are interacting with.

Joy and Happiness

A smile that is accompanied by sparkling eyes, raised cheeks, and a relaxed mouth is a clear indication of joy and happiness. This type of smile is often seen in social situations where people are enjoying themselves or in response to good news. The emotions behind this type of smile are positive and uplifting, and they can be contagious.

Nervousness and Fear

A smile that is forced or strained can indicate nervousness or fear. In this type of smile, the mouth is closed or only slightly open, and the eyes may not be engaged. This type of smile is often seen in social situations where people are uncomfortable or in response to a stressful situation. The emotions behind this type of smile are negative and can be a sign of discomfort or unease.

Sorrow and Regret

A smile that is sad or regretful is often accompanied by downcast eyes and a downturned mouth. This type of smile can indicate feelings of sadness, regret, or disappointment. This type of smile is often seen in social situations where people are trying to mask their true feelings or in response to a negative situation. The emotions behind this type of smile are negative and can be a sign of sadness or regret.

Understanding the emotions behind a smile can help you better connect with the person you are interacting with. By paying attention to the subtle cues of a smile, you can gain insight into a person’s emotional state and respond accordingly.

Describing Smiles in Literature

When it comes to describing a smile in literature, writers have a plethora of options to choose from. Whether it’s a subtle smirk or a wide grin, the right words can paint a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. In this section, we’ll explore two techniques that can be used to describe a smile in writing : similes and metaphors, and creating context with descriptions.

Using Similes and Metaphors

Similes and metaphors are often used to describe a smile in literature. A simile is a comparison between two things using “like” or “as,” while a metaphor is a direct comparison between two things. Here are a few examples of similes and metaphors that can be used to describe a smile:

Her smile was like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day.
His smile was as warm as a summer breeze.
The smile on her face was a bright beacon in the darkness.
His smile was a mask that hid his true emotions.

By using similes and metaphors, writers can create a powerful image in the reader’s mind, making the description of a smile more engaging and memorable.

Creating Context with Descriptions

Another way to describe a smile in literature is by creating context with descriptions. This involves using other descriptive words to paint a picture of the situation and the character’s emotions. Here are a few examples:

She smiled nervously, her lips trembling slightly.
He smiled confidently, his eyes sparkling with amusement.
A small smile played at the corners of her mouth, betraying her true feelings.

By providing context with descriptions, writers can create a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of a smile, making it feel more authentic and relatable.

Overall, the key to describing a smile in literature is to choose the right words and techniques that fit the character and the situation. Whether it’s through similes and metaphors or creating context with descriptions, a well-written smile can add depth and emotion to any story.

The Impact of a Smile

A smile can have a profound impact on both the person smiling and those around them. It can convey a wide range of emotions, from happiness and joy to kindness and understanding. In this section, we will explore the psychological and social effects of a smile.

Psychological Effects

A smile can have a powerful effect on a person’s mental and emotional state. Research has shown that smiling can help reduce stress and anxiety, increase feelings of happiness and well-being, and even improve cognitive function. This is because when we smile, our brains release endorphins, which are natural feel-good chemicals that help reduce pain and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.

Furthermore, a smile can help improve one’s self-esteem and confidence. When we smile, we feel more positive about ourselves and our abilities, which can help us tackle challenges with greater ease and confidence.

Social Interactions

A smile is also an important tool for social interactions. It can help build rapport and trust between people, and make others feel more comfortable and at ease. A genuine, infectious smile can help break down barriers and create a sense of connection and belonging.

On the other hand, a forced or fake smile can have the opposite effect. It can come across as insincere or disingenuous, and may even make others feel uncomfortable or uneasy.

A beautiful smile, whether gentle or wide, can leave a lasting impression on those who see it. It can convey warmth, kindness, and sincerity, and can help build strong and meaningful relationships.

In conclusion, a smile is a powerful tool that can have a significant impact on both the person smiling and those around them. Whether it’s a genuine, infectious smile or a forced, fake one, the effects of a smile can be felt both psychologically and socially.

Crafting Authentic Characters

Creating authentic characters is one of the most important aspects of writing. Without realistic characters, a story can fall flat and fail to engage readers. One way to develop authentic characters is through their smiles. A character’s smile can reveal a lot about their personality, emotions, and motivations.

Character Development through Smiles

A smile can be a powerful tool for character development. By describing a character’s smile, writers can reveal their inner thoughts and feelings. For example, a shy character may have a small, hesitant smile, while a confident character may have a wide, toothy grin.

Describing a character’s smile can also help readers connect with them on a deeper level. By showing their vulnerabilities and insecurities through their smile, readers can relate to them and empathize with their struggles.

Nonverbal Communication Cues

Smiling is just one example of nonverbal communication cues that can help develop authentic characters. Writers can also use body language, facial expressions, eyes, head, hands, voice, and tone to reveal a character’s personality and emotions.

For example, a character who is nervous may fidget with their hands or avoid eye contact, while a character who is angry may clench their fists and have a harsh tone of voice. By using these nonverbal cues, writers can create realistic and relatable characters that readers can connect with.

In conclusion, crafting authentic characters is vital for creating a compelling story. By using a character’s smile and other nonverbal communication cues, writers can develop characters that feel real and relatable to readers.

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smirk - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing

a young child
cheshire grin
mischievous
ressource gratuite pour apprendre l'anglais

That smirk of his brought out a sense of mischief, of innocent fun, and in that moment it released me. The funny thing is though, I had no idea that I was ever caged.

God you look pleased. I'm so happy for you. Is that a smirk-gasm?

Your smirk ticks every box. It's gorgeous. You're gorgeous.

If there was a world leader board of smirkers, you'd be champion.

Ian was always all about business; deadlines, meetings and schedules. His face was never readable, like he left his emotions on the coffee table before work and scooped them up on the way in. But one day I turned in a way he hadn't anticipated and our eyes met. Him not the blank page he liked to project and me taken aback. After an awkward moment the corner of his mouth twitched into his cheek. It transformed him from someone cold into someone I wished I knew better. Just a smirk. That's how it all began.

I could have walked away had it not been for the smirk. That little rise in the corner of his mouth he was oblivious to combined with the cool detachment in his eyes sealed his fate. Not only had he taken Sasha away from me, it was giving him inner delight. He was savouring the moment. By striking out my cover would be blown, little girls just don't take out mafiya henchmen. So I carried on walking. But before I got to my motorbike I knew when, where and how his sorry little life would end.

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Writers After Dark

—Life Through the Eyes of Storytellers—

Using Body Language in Your Novel, Part One—Facial Expressions

How ’bout you and I get physical today? *Kat blows a kiss*

Don’t worry; I’m not trying to be inappropriate with you (any inappropriateness happens naturally, there’s no try here, it’s all “do”—ask Yoda). I’m only trying to share some of my notes on getting physical. Or rather helping you add some layers to your characters with the use of body language.

In art, there’s a term called underpainting–it’s the building of layer upon layer upon layer. And that’s what we want to do with our characters so the reader can experience a deep subconscious connection to them. We’re going to layer them up with some good old-fashioned physical actions.

So let’s get into it.

Reading another person’s body language is tricky. But most of our body parts are quietly communicating how we feel and what we want, whether we realize it or not. This is helpful in fiction. Although words can be deceptive, the human body is a terrible liar. It provides a surprising amount of information on what other people are thinking or how they’re feeling.

Here are some body language “tells” to further enhance your characters’ emotions:

Part One: Facial Expressions

Chin, neck, and jaw:.

* Jutted chin. Described as extending your chin in front of you. Use it to indicate your character is being arrogant, inflexible, or stubborn. This can also be used to describe someone who feels superior to the other characters.

* Neck. The way you describe your character holding his neck can indicate anxiety or confidence. For example, if he’s looking at the floor or ceiling you know he’s nervous or unsure. But if he holds his head straight up, he’ll look calm and self-confident.

* Clenched jaw. A clenched jaw and tightened neck can be used to indicate stress, anxiety, or to portray that your character’s mind is elsewhere.

* Frowning. This can be used to indicate disapproval, lying, displeasure, or concentration in your character.

* Scowling and grimacing. Same as frowning—can be used to also indicate unhappiness, disagreement, or hurt.

Mouths can say a lot of things without words. These are some things your character can say with just their lips.

* Pursed lips. Described as lips pulled inward from all directions. Use it to indicate: tension, frustration, distaste, disapproval, lying/withholding the truth, or anger. For example, you can use it to showcase a character holding her mouth shut to prevent herself from saying something she shouldn’t.

* Turned up lips. Described as having the corners of the mouth turned upward. Use it to indicate a smile of pleasure, which will engage the whole face. Or use it in a grimace of disgust, in which case the teeth are unlikely to be shown, making it flat and tense.

* Turned down lips. Described as having the corners of the mouth turned down. Use it to indicate sadness or displeasure.

* Parted lips. This can be used to indicate your character is flirting. Especially if the lips are then licked . . . and to kick it up a notch, add intensity by having the character hold the other person’s gaze.

* Puckered lips. Described as having the lips in a kiss shape. Use it to indicate desire primarily. But it can also show your character may be experiencing uncertainty—showcase this more by having her touch her puckered lips with her fingers.

* Tight or flattened lips. Described as squeezed flat lips or an exaggerated closed mouth. Use it to indicate disapproval, frustration, or a repressed desire to speak. Or even to show your character is trying not to cry.

* Retracted lips. Described as pulled back with exposed teeth. Use it to indicate either a broad smile or a snarl of aggression. Don’t forget to pair it with the eyes (see below)—crinkles for a smile and for the snarl, your character can have narrowed eyes.

* Twitching lips. Described as quick, small movements of the mouth. Twitching lips can indicate the betrayal of inner thoughts, cynicism, and disbelief.

* Biting the lips. Usually, this is the bottom lip. Use it to indicate flirtation (paired with eye contact), anxiety, stress, lying, or as a suppressing action (like your character stopping himself from saying something).

Smile and laughter:

Focus on describing what’s happening around the eyes.

* Fake Smile. If you want your character to have a fake smile, point out the lack of crinkles around the eyes. Conversely, with a . . .

* Genuine smile , if your character is smiling joyfully, their eyes will crinkle. So be sure to add crow’s feet on the outside of your character’s eye.

* Shy smile. Described as head turned slightly down or away while holding a closed-lip smile. This can be used to help your character look more innocent, secretive, youthful, or playful.

* Smug smile. You know that self-satisfied smile! This can be used to indicate arrogance, feelings of superiority, or as an attempt to dismiss what another character is saying. On the other hand, it can also be used to show flirtation as a sign of humor and playfulness.

* Slight smile. This can be used to indicate an attempt at seduction, especially if it’s accompanied by direct eye contact. Or on the other hand, it can indicate your character is unsure, or worried about another person’s perception of them.

* Smirk. Otherwise known as a twisted or lopsided smile. Described as a smile where the mouth moves in opposite directions, with one side of the lips moving upward as the other side slants down. It can be used to indicate mixed emotions, anxiety, sadness, sarcasm, irony, or embarrassment.

* Laughing. If one character is receptive to another character’s humor, she’s probably into him. Laughter serves as a way to indicate a desire for a relationship—platonic or romantic.

* Excessive or exaggerated nodding. This could indicate anxiety about approval. It’s a good action if you want to showcase your character being worried about what a specific person may think of them.

* Hair. This may not be an actual body language, but it’s helpful for appearance’s sake. The way your character carries her hair can be used as “tell signs.” Give her perfectly groomed hair to showcase her need to be in control. And THEN give her frazzled locks in a scene where you need to really highlight the level of tension and angst she’s going through.

* Touching face. If your character repeatedly touches his face, he’s probably nervous, anxious, or stressed.

The key is to add a mismatch between what your character is saying and what his (usually tense) body language is revealing. Use these “tells” sparingly, and you’ll be adding a great layer of emotional description! 😉

Be sure to come back in the next few weeks for more body language tips for your novel.

Coming up next: eyes, posture, arms, shoulders, legs, and feet.

Published by S. Katherine Anthony

S.K. Anthony (Shanny) is a writer, a reader, and make-stuff-up-er who lives in New York. She is an award-winning author and a podcaster. When she isn’t busy with her toddler twins, S.K. finds herself being transported into the world of imagination. Well, either that or running away from spiders . . . she is convinced they are out to get her! View all posts by S. Katherine Anthony

20 thoughts on “Using Body Language in Your Novel, Part One—Facial Expressions”

You know if you wrote a how-to book for indie authors I’d buy it, right? 😉

Like Liked by 1 person

I appreciate you saying that, Felicia!!! We do have several of those in the works, but want to make sure we offer truly helpful advice. I will be sure to reach out to you when we’re ready! I would love your input when it’s time! 😘

YASSSSS! So glad to hear this, S.K.! If your books mirror your blog posts, trust me – they will be helpful!

I save your blog posts as docs then import them into my Scrivener research folder. Would love to have a book-in-hand instead. Looking forward to the day! 😉

Reblogged this on Nesie's Place and commented: Fix your face! 😄 Using facial expressions in fiction.

Thanks for sharing! 💜💜💜

Head, shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes . . .

You know I can’t help singing it. This is so thorough and helpful! I can’t wait for the next ones. And I agree with the above commenter. You could put this all together in book form and people would love it.

Well, there’s no one else who can take away the seriousness of our posts like you–with a kiddie song nonetheless lol

And, yes, as you already knew Miss Editor, those books are in the plans! 😊

No kiddie song can take away the quality of what you two post, that’s for sure. But I gotta be me!

[…] Facial Expressions (what they are and when to use them) […]

[…] See Part One—Facial Expressions here. […]

These are very helpful tips. I have read so much over the years, that I naturally just used these as part of my character building. I hadn’t really stopped to think of the breakdown in emotional connection. Lol Also, since you have young twin girls…when do you find is your BEST time to do your writing? I have 2 little ones as well.

What is writing? lol Honestly, I struggle to find the writing time . . . which is why my books take a few years each 😂 And, actually I have boy/girl twins, I try to write (both books and articles) at night when they sleep. What about you with your two little ones?

I like the ‘lippy oh’

Great tips SK, I have used a few of these but frequently forget to add them. Excellent first list.

JT!!! Hi 🙂 I frequently forget, too! I worked on this series in hopes it sticks this time lol

HELPFUL TIP:

Definition:, physical signals and behaviors:, internal sensations:, mental responses:, cues of acute or long term smugness:, may escalate to:, cues of suppressed smugness:, may de-escalate to:, associated power verbs:.

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WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

Helping writers become bestselling authors

Physical Attributes Entry: Lips

January 26, 2013 by ANGELA ACKERMAN

Physical description of a character can be difficult to convey—too much will slow the pace or feel ‘list-like’, while too little will not allow readers to form a clear mental image. If a reader cannot imagine what your character looks like, they may have trouble connecting with them on a personal level, or caring about their plight.

One way to balance the showing and telling of physical description is to showcase a few details that really help ‘tell the story’ about who your character is and what they’ve been through up to this point. Think about what makes them different and interesting. Can a unique feature, clothing choice or way they carry themselves help to hint at their personality? Also, consider how they move their body. Using movement will naturally show a character’s physical characteristics, keep the pace flowing and help to convey their emotions.

Descriptors : plump, full, pouty, sultry, thin, fat, dry, cracked, scabby, split, pierced, chapped, swollen, collagen-inflated… Things Lips Do (and other words/phrases to describe those actions)

Smile : grin, smirk, simper, sneer, twist, upturn, lift
Frown : grimace, moue, scowl, pout
Kiss : smooch, smack, peck, graze, caress, skim, tickle, flick, brush

Key Emotions and Related Lip Gestures: People mess with their lips quite a bit. When nervous or uncertain, it’s common for people to bite or chew on the lips as well as rubbing a hand or fingers over them. The lips are often mashed together when someone is holding back their true feelings or opinions. When someone is feeling happy…

Clichés to Avoid : a sensual person with plump, full lips; the flirty girl with pouty lips

HINT: When describing any part of the body, try to use cues that show the reader more than just a physical description. Make your descriptions do double duty. Example: I watch myself in the mirror across the room. Ugh. Two muddy-circle eyes under black-dash eyebrows, piggy-nose nostrils, and a chewed-up horror of a mouth. I can’t stop biting my lips. It looks like my mouth belongs to someone else, someone I don’t even know. I get out of bed and take down the mirror. I put it in the back of my closet, facing the wall. (Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson)

BONUS TIP: The Color, Texture, and Shape Thesaurus might help you find a fresh take on some of the descriptors listed above!

Describe your character’s features in a way that reveals more than just a physical description. Show what he looks like while also reinforcing his personality and emotional state, thereby doing more with less.

Need concrete examples of how to describe your character in a compelling, magnetic way? Good news! This thesaurus has been integrated into our online library at One Stop For Writers . There, you can find help with metaphors and similes , as well as the best ways to describe your character using movement. The entire Physical Feature collection is cross-referenced and linked for easy navigation. If you’re interested in seeing a free sampling of the updated Physical Feature Thesaurus and our other descriptive collections, head on over and register at One Stop!

Angela is a writing coach, international speaker, and bestselling author who loves to travel, teach, empower writers, and pay-it-forward. She also is a founder of One Stop For Writers , a portal to powerful, innovative tools to help writers elevate their storytelling.

Reader Interactions

January 27, 2013 at 7:21 am

Nice details!! Sometimes we can forget the smallest thing that can make a difference in bringing our character to life.

January 27, 2013 at 12:51 am

What a wonderfully informative post. I refer back to you blog often whenever I need inspiration for a revision

January 26, 2013 at 11:40 pm

Love that line about lips the size of California.

January 26, 2013 at 7:16 pm

I’m amazed you come up with so many great body part descriptions. And I certainly commented to hopefully win the awesome prize. Congratulations again on five years together. 🙂 Tracy

January 26, 2013 at 6:05 pm

Great ideas for creative description.

January 26, 2013 at 5:48 pm

Would “lip smacking good” be considered a cliche? I’ve heard it used when talking about how good some food dishes are.

January 26, 2013 at 2:24 pm

Loved this, it will really help me with my story.

January 26, 2013 at 2:23 pm

Lips are a great mood indicator and sprinkled throughout the text a strong character developer. Yet so easy to forget to use!

Thanks for the post.

Charlene, good catch! I should have put ‘licking the lips’ as a common sign of nervousness and unease. I don’t think it’s a cliché as much as it is a universal sign for those emotion. Obviously, it shouldn’t be overused, but using it here or that during a scene of high emotion can go a long way toward drawing the reader in, since they’ll recognize that cue.

January 26, 2013 at 2:07 pm

These tips are so helpful! Sometimes it’s difficult to find different words to describe lips, but you made the possibilities seem endless.

January 26, 2013 at 1:58 pm

Love this post and all the others in the series. It’s wonderfully useful to think about things while seeing them all consolidated like this!

Thanks so much for these!

Have a great weekend!

January 26, 2013 at 12:31 pm

As always, this helps me think beyond my own way of describing things. Very helpful, thanks=)

January 26, 2013 at 11:25 am

This is useful, thank you. I noticed licking your lips isn’t on there. Is that considered cliche even if it isn’t done in a sensual manner?

January 26, 2013 at 9:16 am

Thanks for the tips. That was a great example of a good description of lips by Laurie Halse Anderson. This is a hard one not to be cliche.

January 26, 2013 at 9:15 am

The simile/metaphor killed me. I’m going to be staring at people’s lips all day.

[…] Lips […]

DescribingWord.Com

A to Z Collection of Describing Words

Top 30 Adjectives for Smirk (Negative & Positive Words)

A smirk, a simple facial expression, can convey myriad emotions. Whether endearing or exasperating, the words we use to describe a smirk matter. Dive into our comprehensive list!

Table of Contents

Description of Smirk

A smirk is a half-smile indicating smugness, self-satisfaction, or a concealed amusement, often perceived as irritating or insincere by others.

Words to Describe Smirk

Here are the 30 most common words to describe Smirk:

Bewildering

Flirtatious

Mischievous
Contemptuous

Positive Words to Describe Smirk

Negative words to describe smirk, adjectives for smirk (meanings and example sentences).

Meaning: Indicating pleasure or entertainment.
She caught his amused expression from across the room.
Meaning: Suggestive of playful romance.
His flirtatious smirk was hard to resist.
Meaning: Showing intention to harm or upset.
The malicious smirk after the prank was obvious.
Meaning: Expressing dry humor.
Her wry smirk was full of wit.
Meaning: Boldly disrespectful.
The child’s cheeky smirk earned a reprimand.
Meaning: Conveying irony or sarcasm.
His ironic smirk said he didn’t believe her.
Meaning: Indicating spite or animosity.
The nasty smirk showed he wished ill will.
Meaning: Showing ill-will or hatred.
Her spiteful smirk was hurtful to see.
Meaning: Mockingly derogatory.
The snide smirk made his disdain obvious.
Meaning: Provoking or challenging in a mocking way.
Her taunting smirk dared him to respond.

How to Describe Smirk in writing?

When describing a smirk in writing, focus on the character’s intentions and the context. Is it a playful or a malicious smirk? Detail the curve of the lips, the tilt of the head, and the eyes’ expression. Ensure that the reader can visualize and interpret the emotion behind it.

Adjectives for Snake

Adjectives for Villain

Adjectives for Costume

Writers On The Move

Writing, publishing, book marketing, all offered by experienced authors, writers, and marketers

Your Character's Smirking...or Is He? Synonym Pitfalls.

6 comments:

Oh, dear, not another trend that makes it difficult for the author who isn't alert! Can't help myself here, Melinda. Writers will find all kind of these kinds of mistakes to avoid in The Frugal Editor (http://bit.ly/FrugalEditor). Wondering if you'll let me reprint this in my The Frugal, Smart, And Tuned-In Editor blog in a few weeks or months. If so e-mail me at hojonews @ aol dot com. BTW, I studied writing and music at Charles University in Prague. Is that where you are teaching? Best, Carolyn http://howtodoitfrugally.com

Melinda, you chose the perfect image for the smirk! Great pointers on using the right words in story writing. I love your friend's term "stage direction" words.

Carolyn, I'd be happy for you to reprint it on your blog. You studied in Prague? Awesome. For how long? I'm actually about as far as you can get from Prague, in a small town almost on the border of Slovakia, in a traditional area of the country called Wallachia (Valassko). Prague is beautiful, and there's so much to do and see, but I admit I love my corner of the Czech Republic more: wooden houses in little villages, sheep and chickens, folk dancing, great hiking, and people who are actually surprised and interested when they realize there's a tourist in town. I also love all those undiscovered gems like Olomouc and Tabor and Znojmo.

Good one, Melinda! Some of these words are my pet peeves too!

Melinda, I agree with Karen. Your image portraying a smirk is ideal. However, just before I sent off my Google+ promo, I noticed it said emphatically. "This is a smirk!" and it showed your photo. LOL! It gave me a chance to add to your post - "This author's smile is NOT a smirk. If you want to see a true one, follow the link." Maybe that's something we need to watch out for when we promote each other's posts!

Hee hee. Thanks for the heads up. I try not to smirk much. :)

Authors Need to be Realistic

By Terry Whalin @terrywhalin Over the years, I’ve met many passionate writers. One brand new writer told me, “My book is going to be a best...

Describing Sadness in Creative Writing: 33 Ways to Capture the Blues

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on August 25, 2023

Categories Creative Writing , Writing

Describing sadness in creative writing can be a challenging task for any writer.

Sadness is an emotion that can be felt in different ways, and it’s important to be able to convey it in a way that is authentic and relatable to readers. Whether you’re writing a novel, short story, or even a poem, the ability to describe sadness can make or break a story.

Understanding sadness in writing is essential to creating a believable character or scene. Sadness is a complex emotion that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as loss, disappointment, or loneliness. It’s important to consider the context in which the sadness is occurring, as this can influence the way it is expressed.

By exploring the emotional spectrum of characters and the physical manifestations of sadness, writers can create a more authentic portrayal of the emotion.

In this article, we will explore the different ways to describe sadness in creative writing. We will discuss the emotional spectrum of characters, the physical manifestations of sadness, and the language and dialogue used to express it. We’ll also look at expert views on emotion and provide unique examples of describing sadness.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to authentically convey sadness in your writing.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the emotional spectrum of characters is essential to creating a believable portrayal of sadness.
Physical manifestations of sadness can be used to convey the emotion in a more authentic way.
Authenticity in describing sadness can be achieved through language and dialogue, as well as expert views on emotion.

33 Ways to Express Sadness in Creative Writing

Let’s start with some concrete examples of sadness metaphors and similes:

Here are 33 ways to express sadness in creative writing:

A heavy sigh escaped her lips as a tear rolled down her cheek.
His eyes glistened with unleashed tears that he quickly blinked away.
Her heart felt like it was being squeezed by a cold, metal fist.
A profound emptiness opened up inside him, threatening to swallow him whole.
An avalanche of sorrow crashed over her without warning.
His spirit sank like a stone in water.
A dark cloud of grief descended on her.
Waves of sadness washed over him, pulling him under.
She felt like she was drowning in an ocean of melancholy.
His eyes darkened with sadness like a gathering storm.
Grief enveloped her like a wet blanket, heavy and smothering.
The light in his eyes dimmed to a flicker behind tears.
Sadness seeped through her veins like icy slush.
The corners of his mouth drooped like a wilting flower.
Her breath came in short, ragged gasps between sobs.
A profound melancholy oozed from his pores.
The weight of despair crushed her like a vice.
A haunted, hollow look glazed over his eyes.
An invisible hand squeezed her heart, wringing out all joy.
His soul curdled like spoiled milk.
A silent scream lodged in her throat.
He was consumed by a fathomless gloom.
Sorrow pulsed through her veins with every beat of her heart.
Grief blanketed him like new-fallen snow, numbing and icy.
Tears stung her eyes like shards of glass.
A cold, dark abyss of sadness swallowed him.
Melancholy seeped from her like rain from a leaky roof.
His spirit shriveled and sank like a deflating balloon.
A sick, hollow ache blossomed inside her.
Rivulets of anguish trickled down his cheeks.
Sadness smothered her like a poisonous fog.
Gloom settled on his shoulders like a black shroud.
Her sorrow poured out in a river of tears.

Understanding Sadness in Writing

Describing sadness in writing can be a challenging task.

Sadness is a complex emotion that can manifest in different ways. It can be expressed through tears, sighs, silence, or even a simple change in posture. As a writer, you need to be able to convey sadness effectively to your readers, while also avoiding cliches and melodrama.

One way to approach describing sadness is to focus on the physical sensations and reactions that accompany it. For example, you might describe the feeling of a lump in your throat, or the tightness in your chest. You could also describe the way your eyes become watery, or the way your hands tremble.

These physical descriptions can help your readers to empathize with your characters and feel the same emotions.

Another important aspect of describing sadness is the tone of your writing. You want to strike a balance between conveying the depth of the emotion and avoiding excessive sentimentality.

One way to achieve this is to use simple, direct language that conveys the emotion without resorting to flowery language or overwrought metaphors.

When describing sadness, it’s also important to consider the context in which it occurs. Sadness can be a response to many different situations, such as loss, disappointment, or rejection. It can also be accompanied by other emotions, such as anger, confusion, or melancholy.

By considering the context and accompanying emotions, you can create a more nuanced and realistic portrayal of sadness in your writing.

Finally, it can be helpful to draw on examples of how other writers have successfully described sadness. By studying the techniques and descriptions used by other writers, you can gain a better understanding of how to effectively convey sadness in your own writing.

In conclusion, describing sadness in writing requires a careful balance of physical descriptions, tone, context, and examples. By focusing on these elements, you can create a more nuanced and effective portrayal of this complex emotion.

Emotional Spectrum in Characters

In creative writing, it’s important to create characters that are multi-dimensional and have a wide range of emotions. When it comes to describing sadness, it’s essential to understand the emotional spectrum of characters and how they respond to different situations.

Characters can experience a variety of emotions, including love, happiness, surprise, anger, fear, nervousness, and more.

Each character has a unique personality that influences their emotional responses. For example, a protagonist might respond to sadness with a broken heart, dismay, or feeling desolate.

On the other hand, a character might respond with anger, contempt, or apathy.

When describing sadness, it’s important to consider the emotional response of the character. For example, a haunted character might respond to sadness with exhaustion or a sense of being drained. A crestfallen character might respond with a sense of defeat or disappointment.

It’s also important to consider how sadness affects the character’s personality. Some characters might become withdrawn or depressed, while others might become more emotional or volatile. When describing sadness, it’s important to show how it affects the character’s behavior and interactions with others.

Overall, the emotional spectrum of characters is an important aspect of creative writing. By understanding how characters respond to different emotions, you can create more realistic and relatable characters. When describing sadness, it’s important to consider the character’s emotional response, personality, and behavior.

Physical Manifestations of Sadness

When you’re feeling sad, it’s not just an emotion that you experience mentally. It can also manifest physically. Here are some physical manifestations of sadness that you can use in your creative writing to make your characters more believable.

Tears are one of the most common physical manifestations of sadness. When you’re feeling sad, your eyes may start to water, and tears may fall down your cheeks. Tears can be used to show that a character is feeling overwhelmed with emotion.

Crying is another physical manifestation of sadness. When you’re feeling sad, you may cry. Crying can be used to show that a character is feeling deeply hurt or upset.

Numbness is a physical sensation that can accompany sadness. When you’re feeling sad, you may feel emotionally numb. This can be used to show that a character is feeling disconnected from their emotions.

Facial Expressions

Facial expressions can also be used to show sadness. When you’re feeling sad, your face may droop, and your eyes may look downcast. This can be used to show that a character is feeling down or depressed.

Gestures can also be used to show sadness. When you’re feeling sad, you may slump your shoulders or hang your head. This can be used to show that a character is feeling defeated or hopeless.

Body Language

Body language can also be used to show sadness. When you’re feeling sad, you may cross your arms or hunch over. This can be used to show that a character is feeling closed off or defensive.

Cold and Heat

Sadness can also affect your body temperature. When you’re feeling sad, you may feel cold or hot. This can be used to show that a character is feeling uncomfortable or out of place.

Sobbing is another physical manifestation of sadness. When you’re feeling sad, you may sob uncontrollably. This can be used to show that a character is feeling overwhelmed with emotion.

Sweating is another physical manifestation of sadness. When you’re feeling sad, you may sweat profusely. This can be used to show that a character is feeling anxious or nervous.

By using these physical manifestations of sadness in your writing, you can make your characters more realistic and relatable. Remember to use them sparingly and only when they are relevant to the story.

Authenticity in Describing Sadness

When it comes to describing sadness in creative writing, authenticity is key. Readers can tell when an author is not being genuine, and it can make the story feel less impactful. In order to authentically describe sadness, it’s important to tap into your own emotions and experiences.

Think about a time when you felt truly sad. What did it feel like? What physical sensations did you experience? How did your thoughts and emotions change? By tapping into your own experiences, you can better convey the emotions of your characters.

It’s also important to remember that sadness can manifest in different ways for different people. Some people may cry, while others may become withdrawn or angry. By understanding the unique ways that sadness can present itself, you can create more authentic and realistic characters.

If you’re struggling to authentically describe sadness, consider talking to a loved one or best friend about their experiences. Hearing firsthand accounts can help you better understand the nuances of the emotion.

Ultimately, the key to authentically describing sadness is to approach it with empathy and understanding. By putting yourself in the shoes of your characters and readers, you can create a powerful and impactful story that resonates with your audience.

Language and Dialogue in Expressing Sadness

When writing about sadness, the language you use can make a big difference in how your readers will perceive the emotions of your characters.

Consider using metaphors and similes to create vivid images that will help your readers connect with the emotions of your characters.

For example, you might describe the sadness as a heavy weight on the character’s chest or a dark cloud hanging over their head.

In addition to using metaphors, you can also use adjectives to describe the character’s emotions. Be careful not to overuse adjectives, as this can detract from the impact of your writing. Instead, choose a few powerful adjectives that will help your readers understand the depth of the character’s sadness.

For example, you might describe the sadness as overwhelming, suffocating, or unbearable.

When it comes to dialogue, it’s important to remember that people don’t always express their emotions directly. In fact, sometimes what isn’t said is just as important as what is said.

Consider using subtext to convey the character’s sadness indirectly. For example, a character might say “I’m fine,” when in reality they are struggling with intense sadness.

Another way to use dialogue to convey sadness is through the use of behaviors. For example, a character might withdraw from social situations, stop eating or sleeping properly, or engage in self-destructive behaviors as a result of their sadness.

By showing these behaviors, you can help your readers understand the depth of the character’s emotions.

Finally, when describing sadness, it’s important to consider the overall mood of the scene. Use sensory details to create a somber atmosphere that will help your readers connect with the emotions of your characters.

For example, you might describe the rain falling heavily outside, the silence of an empty room, or the dim lighting of a funeral home.

Overall, when writing about sadness, it’s important to choose your words carefully and use a variety of techniques to convey the depth of your character’s emotions.

By using metaphors, adjectives, dialogue, behaviors, and sensory details, you can create a powerful and emotionally resonant story that will stay with your readers long after they’ve finished reading.

Expert Views on Emotion

When it comes to writing about emotions, it’s important to have a deep understanding of how they work and how they can be conveyed effectively through writing. Here are some expert views on emotion that can help you write about sadness in a more effective and engaging way.

Dr. Paul Ekman

Dr. Paul Ekman is a renowned psychologist who has spent decades studying emotions and their expressions. According to Dr. Ekman, there are six basic emotions that are universally recognized across cultures: happiness, sadness, anger, fear, surprise, and disgust.

When it comes to writing about sadness, Dr. Ekman suggests focusing on the physical sensations that accompany the emotion.

For example, you might describe the heaviness in your chest, the lump in your throat, or the tears that well up in your eyes. By focusing on these physical sensations, you can help your readers connect with the emotion on a deeper level.

While sadness is often seen as a “negative” emotion, it’s important to remember that all emotions have their place in creative writing. Disgust, for example, can be a powerful tool for conveying a character’s revulsion or aversion to something.

When writing about disgust, it’s important to be specific about what is causing the emotion. For example, you might describe the smell of rotting garbage, the sight of maggots wriggling in a pile of food, or the texture of slimy, raw meat.

By being specific, you can help your readers feel the full force of the emotion and understand why your character is feeling it.

Overall, when it comes to writing about emotions, it’s important to be both specific and authentic. By drawing on your own experiences and using concrete details to describe the physical sensations and causes of emotions, you can create a more engaging and emotionally resonant piece of writing.

Unique Examples of Describing Sadness

When it comes to describing sadness in creative writing, there are many unique ways to convey this emotion to your readers. Here are some examples that can help you create a powerful and moving scene:

The crying scene : One of the most common ways to show sadness is through tears. However, instead of just saying “she cried,” try to describe the crying scene in detail. For instance, you could describe how her tears fell like raindrops on the floor, or how her sobs shook her body like a violent storm. This will help your readers visualize the scene and feel the character’s pain.
The socks : Another way to show sadness is through symbolism. For example, you could describe how the character is wearing mismatched socks, which represents how her life is falling apart and nothing seems to fit together anymore. This can be a subtle yet effective way to convey sadness without being too obvious.
John : If your character is named John, you can use his name to create a sense of melancholy. For example, you could describe how the raindrops fell on John’s shoulders, weighing him down like the burdens of his life. This can be a creative way to convey sadness while also adding depth to your character.

Remember, when describing sadness in creative writing, it’s important to be specific and use vivid language. This will help your readers connect with your character on a deeper level and feel their pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective ways to describe a person’s sadness without using the word ‘sad’.

When describing sadness, it’s important to avoid using the word “sad” as it can come across as cliché and lackluster. Instead, try using more descriptive words that evoke a sense of sadness in the reader. For example, you could use words like “heartbroken,” “bereft,” “devastated,” “despondent,” or “forlorn.” These words help to create a more vivid and emotional description of sadness that readers can connect with.

How can you describe the physical manifestations of sadness on a person’s face?

When describing the physical manifestations of sadness on a person’s face, it’s important to pay attention to the small details. For example, you could describe the way their eyes become red and swollen from crying, or how their mouth trembles as they try to hold back tears. You could also describe the way their shoulders slump or how they withdraw into themselves. By focusing on these small but telling details, you can create a more realistic and relatable portrayal of sadness.

What are some examples of using metaphor and simile to convey sadness in creative writing?

Metaphors and similes can be powerful tools for conveying sadness in creative writing. For example, you could compare a person’s sadness to a heavy weight that they’re carrying on their shoulders, or to a storm cloud that follows them wherever they go. You could also use metaphors and similes to describe the way sadness feels, such as a “gnawing ache” in the pit of their stomach or a “cold, empty void” inside their chest.

How can you effectively convey the emotional weight of sadness through dialogue?

When writing dialogue for a character who is experiencing sadness, it’s important to focus on the emotions and feelings that they’re experiencing. Use short, simple sentences to convey the character’s sadness, and avoid using overly complex language or metaphors. You could also use pauses and silences to create a sense of emotional weight and tension in the scene.

What are some techniques for describing a character’s inner sadness in a way that is relatable to the reader?

One effective technique for describing a character’s inner sadness is to focus on their thoughts and feelings. Use introspection to delve into the character’s emotions and describe how they’re feeling in a way that is relatable to the reader. You could also use flashbacks or memories to show why the character is feeling sad, and how it’s affecting their current actions and decisions.

How can you use sensory language to create a vivid portrayal of sadness in a poem or story?

Sensory language is an effective way to create a vivid portrayal of sadness in a poem or story. Use descriptive words that evoke the senses, such as the smell of rain on a sad day or the sound of a distant train whistle. You could also use sensory language to describe the physical sensations of sadness, such as the weight of a heavy heart or the taste of tears on the tongue. By using sensory language, you can create a more immersive and emotional reading experience for your audience.

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Steamy yet Sophisticated: How to Write the Perfect Kissing Scene

One of the most difficult scenes to write is a kissing scene, or really any scene when when things get hot and heavy.

Writers worry about being too obscene (will my mother read this?), or even worse, not vulgar enough (no one wants to be labeled a prude).

Humans are private creatures when it comes to lust, and illustrating an intimate scene can still make the most seasoned writer nervous.

The perfect kissing scene is found smack dab between these two adjectives in the title — steamy and sophisticated — as it is the balance of coy and crude that can develop into a beautiful scene.

In order to craft the perfect kissing scene, it is important to look back on the work of others in order to see what works. I’m going to give you two examples and explain why both of them work.

Wait one second:

All writers absolutely need to read the best post I’ve ever written: “ 12 Steps to Write a Bestselling Novel. ”

Pause on your obsession with kissing and plunge headlong into the best guide post on novel writing.

You won’t regret it.

Dolphin-Slippery Kissing in Sophie’s Choice

Considered by many to be William Styron’s magnum opus, this story chronicles the friendship between a young Southern writer and a polish Auschwitz survivor. In this scene the young writer, affectionally named Stingo, is observing a painting beside a young jewish girl named Leslie.

“In the shadows her face was so close to mine that I could smell the sweet ropy fragrance of the sherry she had been drinking, and then her tongue was in my mouth. In all truth I had not invited this prodigy of a tongue; turning, I had merely wished to look at her face, expecting only that the expression of aesthetic delight I might find there would correspond to what I knew was my own. But I did not even catch a glimpse of her face, so instantaneous and urgent was that tongue. Plunged like some writhing sea-shape into my gaping maw, it all but overpowered my senses as it sought some unreachable terminus near my uvula; it wiggled, it pulsated, and made contortive sweeps of my mouth’s vault: I’m certain that at least once it turned upside down. Dolphin-slippery, less wet than rather deliciously mucilaginous and tasting of Amontillado, it had the power in itself to force me, or somehow get me back, against a doorjamb, where I lolled helpless with my eyes clenched shut, in a trance of tongue.”

In this selection Styron’s masterful description keeps the reader glued to the page for every swirl of young Leslie’s tongue. So let’s analyze what exactly worked …

Styron uses the element of surprise to initiate this kissing scene. The main character is still in the process of describing the odor of Ms. Leslie when she startles him with a kiss. By abruptly launching into the kiss mid-sentence, Styron is able to catch his readers off-guard. This helps allow the reader to experience the shock of an unexpected peck.

Another use of Styron’s unpredictable writing style centers around the metaphors and similes that take the reader by surprise with their effectiveness.

Who would of expected that describing a tongue as a “writhing sea-shape” trying to squirm its way out the back of your head would actually work? Or that, keeping with the nautical theme, Styron would be able to make it sound natural when he illustrates a tongue as “dolphin-slippery”?

Yet these depictions are such colorfully unconventional ways to describe the act of kissing, that they actually work despite their less-than-arousing sound.

Let’s take a look at another iconic kiss scene.

Star-Struck Kissing in The Great Gatsby

In “The Great Gatsby,” Fitzgerald’s story about wealthy Jay Gatsby’s ill-fated infatuation with the already married Daisy Buchanan, this scene describes a kiss between the two on a cool moonlight night.

“His heart beat faster and faster as Daisy’s white face came up to his own. He knew that when he kissed this girl, and forever wed his unutterable visions to her perishable breath, his mind would never romp again like the mind of God. So he waited, listening for a moment longer to the tuning fork that had been struck upon a star. Then he kissed her. At his lips’ touch she blossomed like a flower and the incarnation was complete.”

What makes this scene so compelling is the distinct and bizarre analogy Fitzgerald employs in order to describe the moment. A tuning fork struck upon a star? That’s utterly unique.

But remember that the majority of this kissing scene is the anticipation before the kiss. This is what writers most often forget. They go straight to the physical action and forget that the literary foreplay is the majority of the pleasure.

His figurative language in the second sentence makes the process of leaning in for this kiss almost metaphysical, as the speaker explains how this kiss will act as an act of therapy to cure all of the anxieties that plagued his mind.

In Fitzgerald, a kiss is never just a kiss.

It can be a cure, an epiphany, a disaster, a transformation.

Kiss & Tell: 7 Takeaways From These Kisses

So what have we learned by analyzing these two scenes side by side?

Spend some time describing in straightforward language what is happening, but don’t shy away from using strange and unusual metaphors for a kissing scene.
Don’t rush. Only bad writers treat a kissing scene as just the physical action between two sets of lips. A true kissing scene is the tension between two people before the kiss, the psychology during the kiss, and the reactions afterwards.
A kissing scene isn’t just about the physical act of kissing. It’s really about the relationship between these two characters. What are they thinking? What do they really want (and it’s not always sex. It could be a connection, it could be avoiding the feeling of loneliness).
There is the early sexual tension, the physical act of lips meeting, and the climax can come either in the character’s thoughts about the kiss or in what they do after they’ve separated from each other (like the lightening in the Jane Eyre example below).
Both in Gatsby and in the Siddhartha example below, the act of kissing becomes something more: it becomes a kind of revelation, an epiphany. Don’t be afraid to have your kissing scene lead your character into a profound realization.
Is one enjoying it and the other hating it? Is one overthinking it and the other swept up in the passion?
In the Lolita example below, you will find an example of a kissing scene where you don’t trust the person describing the kissing. In Humbert Humbert’s version of the kiss, 12-year-old Lolita is the instigator of the kiss. But can we really trust his version of events?

Yes, your kissing scenes will be brilliant now, but what about the rest of your story?

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5 Bonus Kissing Scenes

Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell

Before she could withdraw her mind from its far places, his arms were around her, as sure and hard as on the dark road to Tara, so long ago. She felt again the rush of helplessness, the sinking yielding, the surging tide of warmth that left her limp. And the quiet face of Ashley Wilkes was blurred and drowned to nothingness. He bent back her head across his arm and kissed her, softly at first, and then with a swift gradation of intensity that made her cling to him as the only solid thing in a dizzy swaying world. His insistent mouth was parting her shaking lips, sending wild tremors along her nerves, evoking from her sensations she had never known she was capable of feeling. And before a swimming giddiness spun her round and round, she knew that she was kissing him back.

Siddhartha, by Hermann Hesse

She drew him toward her with her eyes, he inclined his face toward hers and lay his mouth on her mouth, which was like a freshly split-open fig. For a long time he kissed Kamala, and Siddhartha was filled with deep astonishment as she taught him how wise she was, how she ruled him, put him off, lured him back… each one different from the other, still awaiting him. Breathing deeply, he remained standing and at this moment he was like a child astonished by the abundance of knowledge and things worth learning opening up before his eyes.

Middlesex, by Jeffrey Eugenides

The rims of Clementine’s eyes were inflamed. She yawned. She rubbed her nose with the heel of her hand. And then she asked, “Do you want to practice kissing?”

I didn’t know what to answer. I already knew how to kiss, didn’t I? Was there something more to learn? But while these questions were going through my head, Clementine was going ahead with the lesson. She came around to face me. With a grave expression she put her arms around my neck.

The necessary special effects are not in my possession, but what I’d like for you to imagine is Clementine’s white face coming close to mine, her sleepy eyes closing, her medicine-sweet lips puckering up, and all the other sounds of the world going silent — the rustling of our dresses, her mother counting leg lifts downstairs, the airplane outside making an exclamation mark in the sky — all silent, as Clementine’s highly educated, eight-year-old lips met mine.

And then, somewhere below this, my heart reacting.

Not a thump exactly. Not even a leap. But a kind of swish, like a frog kicking off from a muddy bank. My heart, that amphibian, moving that moment between two elements: one, excitement; the other, fear. I tried to pay attention. I tried to hold up my end of things. But Clementine was way ahead of me. She swiveled her head back and forth the way actresses did in the movies. I started doing the same, but out of the corner of her mouth she scolded, “You’re the man.” So I stopped. I stood stiffly with arms at my sides. Finally Clementine broke off the kiss. She looked at me blankly a moment, and then responded, “Not bad for your first time.”

Lolita, by Vladimir Nabokov

Hardly had the car come to a standstill than Lolita positively flowed into my arms. Not daring, not daring let myself go — not even daring let myself realize that this (sweet wetness and trembling fire) was the beginning of the ineffable life which, ably assisted by fate, I had finally willed into being — not daring really kiss her, I touched her hot, opening lips with the utmost piety, tiny sips, nothing salacious; but she, with an impatient wriggle, pressed her mouth to mine so hard that I felt her big front teeth and shared in the peppermint taste of her saliva. I knew, of course, it was but an innocent game on her part, a bit of backfisch foolery in imitation of some simulacrum of fake romance, and since (as the psychotherapist, as well as the rapist, will tell you) the limits and rules of such girlish games are fluid, or at least too childishly subtle for the senior partner to grasp — I was dreadfully afraid I might go too far and cause her to start back in revulsion and terror.

Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Bronte

The rain rushed down. He hurried me up the walk, through the grounds, and into the house; but we were quite wet before we could pass the threshold. He was taking off my shawl in the hall, and shaking the water out of my loosened hair, when Mrs. Fairfax emerged from her room. I did not observe her at first, nor did Mr. Rochester. The lamp was lit. The clock was on the stroke of twelve.

“Hasten to take off your wet things,” said he; “and before you go, good- night — good-night, my darling!”

He kissed me repeatedly. When I looked up, on leaving his arms, there stood the widow, pale, grave, and amazed. I only smiled at her, and ran upstairs. “Explanation will do for another time,” thought I. Still, when I reached my chamber, I felt a pang at the idea she should even temporarily misconstrue what she had seen. But joy soon effaced every other feeling; and loud as the wind blew, near and deep as the thunder crashed, fierce and frequent as the lightning gleamed, cataract-like as the rain fell during a storm of two hours’ duration, I experienced no fear and little awe. Mr. Rochester came thrice to my door in the course of it, to ask if I was safe and tranquil: and that was comfort, that was strength for anything.

Before I left my bed in the morning, little Adele came running in to tell me that the great horse-chestnut at the bottom of the orchard had been struck by lightning in the night, and half of it split away.

139 comments

How does it feel to really kiss?

Its like opening up your soul, tasting feeling and seeing every colour of the rainbow in their own sensual way, almost like catching a smile in a bottle, its softness, its sweetness… Like breathing in the person like a cool inhalation of oxygen to warm the soul.. Like nothing in the world exist but u and the person… This feeling like ur levitating off the ground floating in the air… What ur feeling cannot be put into words, nor has there get been any part of speech or figure of speech invented to describe it.. Its like an aphrodisiac, mixed with a Pandoras box effect , fireworks glowing inside u from the touch of the persons lips on u.

Woah, dude. That’s deeper than any of the kissing scenes in the article.

That was beautiful.

Wow. That’s quite deep.

Kissing feels like pressing your lips against slightly slimy cardboard and waiting to get on with the reasoning behind the kiss

You should write a book

Wooaaaahhhhhh…. that is some deep stuff but I do find myself agreeing with you.

Love it, you have enlightened me, now back to work and this time I know i need to engage senses

Damn. I’m shook from how deep that was.

that was beautiful…

this was so beautifully written it made me tear up and crave to feel it firsthand

*ahem* could I use this for the book I’m writing because I have no other ideas??

i ask the same thing cause i havnt experienced

It feels as if your whole world has been waiting for this moment. As if all the love inside your soul, as well as your body (with the right person) combine into lust and passion. The feeling of a good kiss is when your person your kissing wraps their arms around you, you feel as if you were safe but are complete aware of how you look, and wanting to impress them. A TRUE GOOD KISS, is the feeling when you feel sick to the stomach but strong as well. That, Sadie, is what I consider to be a good kiss.

I think how it feels, is when they lean in and look you in the eyes, before their lips fall on yours. The feeling of love and passion fills your soul. As if that kiss was meant to be yours. As if the person and you were meant to kiss. When that person grabs you and holds you close and kisses you so passionately, it makes you feel safe and completely venerable to that person. You feel as if your body will explode with the feeling of happiness, the feeling of being rarely safe in the persons hold. As if this pacific person was meant for you. And when it’s over, you just know. No kiss will ever compare. That is a real kiss. To me at least, Sadie.

She leads me to a small clearing. I see the starlight, those beautiful pinpricks of light in the infinite dark expanse of the universe. “Wow…” I stutter. “Beautiful, isn’t it?” she asks, slipping behind me. She hugs me around the waist, and I cringe instinctively away from the unexpected contact. “It’s… stunning” I grasp desperately for the correct word. “Turn around, I have one more surprise” she commands. I turn around, and all I see is her, her vibrant, fiery hair glowing with the silver cascade of the moonlight, the glow of the stars in her amber eyes, her delicate smile and the deep blushing on her face. “You were right, babe, it’s beautiful” I say, and her cheeks redden further. “There’s more” she says, and leans in quickly. Her lips touch mine gently and affectionately. My mind immediately crowds with a million thoughts, but I push them away for the moment, desiring nothing more than to enjoy this moment. Almost immediately, she recoils shyly and blushes uncontrollably. I stand in shock, the swarm of thoughts flowing into my mind. She begins to retreat, fearing that she may have taken things too far, too quickly. I move quickly to her, brushing away her hair. I lean in and gently guide her head toward mine. Our kiss lasts mere moments, but it feels great. Thousands of thoughts are forced away to make room for one single idea. Hold on to this moment forever. I release and rest my forehead against hers. “I love you, babe.” I say, barely more than a whisper. She blushes more. “I love you too” she whispers. Our lips connect once more. Each moment, the feeling of her soft, perfect lips becomes more and more provocative. It is in this moment that I truly realize that I am hers and she is mine. I was meant for this, I was meant for her. This is the first time that I have ever felt that I truly belong. I swear to god, we actually transversed the infinite planes to one in which time does not exist, because I am sure that if we were in the world, my passion for her would be enough to stop time, to hold this moment, to hold her, for ever. I wish to stretch this moment out into a thousand, just to feel her body against mine. She is Ember, she is my Ember, and I belong entirely to her. The world is gone, and we float through an infinite expanse of nothing, just the two of us, Abby and Ember. We love each other and that’s all that we need. We can stay here through all time and eternity. Sadly, the world of the living was not done with us yet. We release our lip lock. “That was… that felt amazing…” I stumble for words again. “I love you, Abby” she says, and I lay down on the ground. She sets her head on my breasts. After hours of thinking, I finally accept the embrace of sleep.

@Sadie and some others asking what a kiss feels like:

You are, very understandably, asking the wrong question. A kiss is never just a kiss. It’s the circumstances that determine what kissing feels like (and the meaning of the kiss is where your story lies). The first time I kissed a boy, I did it because I wanted to know what it would be like. I’d just turned 13 and worldly deciding it was time, but then the kiss turned out to be a huge disappointment. Wet, gross, my nose awkwardly bumping into his; it wasn’t what I’d imagined at all. The way my classmate’s tongue swirled in my mouth reminded me of the spinning cycle of a laundry machine. Was this what the fuss was all about? I wasn’t in such a hurry to grow up after that.

Fast forward to my first real party as a freshman in college where I kissed a man to distract him from his efforts to rape me. He’d drugged me and I woke up as he was taking my clothes off. I asked him to stop, but he didn’t. The ice-cold fear shooting through my veins overruled the nauseating revulsion of his unwelcome mouth on mine as I frantically bought myself time to think up an escape.

Every kiss in my life was different. I clearly remember the first kiss by a man I was deeply in love with despite my resignation that he would probably never want me. I barely registered the shock of his warm lips on mine because my world imploded, a signal sounded and doors closed between us. When the train slowly left the station, I couldn’t even feel my legs and floated to my seat in the happiest of dazes.

I’ve trembled in fear when I could no longer deny a man who’d been patient through many dates with me. I was terrified a kiss might lead to real feelings for him because I was nowhere near ready for a relationship and the impulse to flee, to actually run out of my own apartment, was battering at me but I locked my knees and braved the kiss anyway.

Speaking of knees: they gave out when my secret lover kissed me behind a curtain at a very public party as he whispered promises in my ear about what would follow later that night.

I’ve hated the kisses that I felt obligated to give, the taste of them like overripe oranges. But I’ve also begged for kisses from the men I loved, both for sloppy ones in the shower and sunlit ones in the morning. I’ve danced like a stripper after midnight to gain the affections of complete strangers when I was drunkenly trying to get over an ex, the anonymous arms around me healing the crumpled pieces of me fearing I’d never be noticed again. Sometimes I missed a man so much, kissing him felt like I was taking my first full breath in days. I’ve tearfully kissed men goodbye. One kiss shattered me with the sudden realisation that the man I loved meant for it to be the last. I’ve steeled myself for kisses intending to leave all my walls firmly intact, deliberately concentrating on perfect technique instead. I’ve kissed men intending a quick peck only to be swept up in a wave of heat. Last year I said “I do” before kissing my husband, all the while gripping his hands- both to let him know I truly meant it and to hold on for dear life. You’d think that almost 2 decades’ worth of kisses would qualify me to tell you what it really feels like, but I couldn’t possibly. Because a kiss is never just a kiss. Trust me on this. A kiss can be a pledge of love or a declaration of war, and sometimes it’s both.

Some writers reduce kissing to a purely physical act, and the result is a bad scene because kissing simply isn’t. Walking or cycling or eating an apple tends to feel roughly the same every time. Why? Because basic stuff like eating or moving from point A to point B usually doesn’t MEAN very much (unless it’s the first time walking after losing your legs in a car accident or there’s suddenly a worm in your apple on a bad day). Kisses never really feel the same because they always mean something. Even if it’s just a hasty smack and a “drive safe” between a husband and a wife, a kiss means something.

I think it’s helpful to see kissing as a way to communicate. Think about it: you never really have the same conversation twice either. If someone were to ask you; “what does talking really feel like?”, you’d probably pause. Because talking is never just… talking. Sure, you’re moving your lips, forming words, noises come out, language is chosen, but that’s not what it FEELS like to have a conversation, nor what a conversation is really about. What talking feels like depends rather heavily on the situation and the person you’re having the conversation with. Kissing is just like that; it’s interaction. It’s human connection. That’s why metaphors work so well when describing kisses. I never really know where my hands are during a kiss, but my brain always automatically processes what the kiss means. So when writing, I’d prioritise meaning over logistics and even sensory input every time. Without meaning, your readers won’t feel much either. Ask yourself: why does this kiss matter to these characters?

Also: never underestimate a hug or a brush of fingers or other non-verbal interactions. With the right meaning attached, they can be ridiculously powerful. I think it’s one of the great misconceptions of our time that we seem to think that only stuff in the bedroom counts. Also quite idiotic: all the times we label that same stuff as ‘casual’. It rarely ever is.

Just my 2 cents as I’m trying to figure out how to work the first kiss in the story I’m writing. I thought the article was really helpful. It reminded me of the basic fact that the meaning of the kiss always takes precedence.

Oh wWOOOOOOWWWW!! NOW THIS IS BEAUTIFUL. This is beautiful.

God, I needed to write a comment after reading such an enlightening comment. Thank you so much for your thorough examples and explanations, know that somewhere on this planet someone will keep this in mind when they write their kissing scene <3

It depends a lot on the person.

I personally do not feel much stimulated by kissing, for me my partner’s stimulation turns me on af.

It feels warm, soft & very intimate.

Kissing is like communicating with your partner. It makes you feel certain emotions you have never felt before. It is like connecting with your partner’s soul, and feeling the warmth of your partner’s breath. It helps build a stronger bond with your partner, and makes them feel welcomed.

I think it’s like a really awkward moment of sucking face.

Your breath is all entangled (you can’t breath well because you’re so close) and you’re choosing to trust your partners oral hygiene (like don’t they ask themselves??)

But my friends in relationships say it’s addictive.

In truth, a little awkward. A chaste kiss is just a mouth against a mouth – warm, but not really something one has to get very descriptive about. Open-mouthed kisses without tongue are probably my favorite (wow, I never thought of that until now, actually!) because they’re not as invasive as a kiss with tongue but not as chaste as a closed-mouth kiss. This kiss feels soft, unless there’s lip biting involved (which is hot until someone starts bleeding). Warm, of course. It’s almost like a caress. As for kisses with a lot of tongue, I can’t be trusted to describe such a kiss without letting my bias show significantly.

I’m very late to this party, but this is a great article! It definitely helped me while writing these type of scene’s in my story and the examples given from stories were also very helpful.

what’s your story?

So you think that YOU’RE late? I am like late late lol. but nevertheless, the article was helpful no matter how late people come to it.

Yo, you think YOU’RE late? If you’re late late – I’m late late late late late! Gotta agree though, this article has helped out my writing loads.

You think YOU’RE late? if you’re late late late late late, I’m late late late late late late late! Yeah, this helped though

You think YOU’RE late?

You think You’re late? If you’re….. oh, never mind.

I agree with all, this is a fantastic article and has literally just helped my kissing/love-making scene. Thank you.

lmfao what?

Oh, you poor, oblivious souls. These days, Late takes poor, unsuspecting humans and infects them with the plague you know as the opposite of “punctuality”. No cure has been found for Late, unfortunately.

So this is part of a musical that I wrote for fun but…. So Kate and Thomas are married and she has been abused in the past so she locks him in the bathroom once she sees the bed because she gets scared. He escapes through the door that leads outside and has made his way back into the room (Thomas tries to sneak away but Kate spots him)

Kate(spoken): T-Thomas….. I—– (turns away as if to leave) Thomas(running over to her and kissing her, silencing the apology. She pulls back and he lets her): Shhhh…..it’s okay. He did more than just shove you a couple times didn’t he? What did he do to you? I want to know everything. ( Kate stares at her hands) Kate (whispered): Knives can fly (Thomas takes her hands in his and rubs them tenderly in a circular motion): Look I can wait until you’re ready to talk but I’m also not leaving this room until you tell me everywhere he hurt you and how he did it. Kate(whispered): okay (Her shoulders are trembling and he grabs them gently but firmly to steady them) Thomas( soothing): now where do you want to start? …… So the musical continues and he gets her to tell him everything. She is also subconsciously buttoning her blue jean jacket up as she talks …… * so to make this easier I’m turning the rest into a story format on here* Thomas shakes his head in anger,” that man better be praising the Lord that he is in jail because if not HE’D BE DEAD. Kate begins to tremble and pulls away.”Thomas, please you’re scaring me,” Thomas relaxes and a look of worry crosses his face. “Sorry baby, I just got a little mad. Look I can sleep on the couch until you’re ready” he starts to leave but she stops him “Don’t” her voice is steady now, no longer afraid. “We don’t have to, baby” he again goes to leave but she stops him again. ” Please,” she kisses him and he immediately pulls back, worry written all over his face. ” Katy-cat” ” I want to ” (I can’t italicize but the want is emphasized) she kisses him again. Thomas pulls back and stares her in the eyes, ” are you sure?” She hesitates the fear visible in her eyes for a brief second before determination takes over. ” Yes….just….go slow” His voice grows gentle but firm as he says ” okay. If you start to panic, I’m gonna stop immediately and go sleep on the couch. Deal?” “Yes” Thomas scoots closer and starts to unbutton her jacket. [The stage darkens. The last thing visible is Kate’s jacket falling to the floor]

That’s really good. Great job!!

Thanks….really helped.. I’m 15 writing my first novel that is romance but fiction based….looking for someone to sponsor me to act it probably during the August holiday.

17 and working on my own stuff my dude. Keep writing, be as consistent as you can manage. You got this.

15 and writing a novel too. It’s nice to see all the positivity around

14 and trying but keep getting distracted. I am hoping all of you get it done and published.

17 and about to write a romantic and dangerously feisty scene. Helping a ton!

13 and trying as well. It’s a fantasy but there’s lots of romance :happy-face:

I write books in my free time, and they’re romance books, so yeah, this article was pretty useful for future references, thanks so much. does anyone know how to get a book published?

Honestly, anything that uses the phrase ‘gaping maw’ and ‘dolphin slippery’ should not be used as a template for a good kiss scene. Unless you’re into making out with Lovecraftian monsters those aren’t phrases you use to describe kissing. Vore, maybe. Kissing, no.

Thank you. I read that and my nose wrinkled like “whaaaa???” Is it surprising, yes. Is it a scene that would make a reader sigh in bliss. Absolutely no. Wow. That is a descriptor I would 100% stay away from.

Damn it was just mind blowing!!

Yessssss @TheBoi yesssss! Like yesssssssssssssss

“Are you going to be okay?” I whispered. “Yeah. Let’s just get it over with.” She took off her sweater. “Okay.” I breathed. She wrapped her arms around my neck and teased me with her big green eyes. “Okay,” I repeated. I awkwardly put my arms around her waist. We stared into each other’s eyes for an awkward second. I leaned down, and she brought her head up. Our lips connected. She deepened the kiss. With one hand, she took the hat off my head and dropped it on the ground. She ran her hands through my dark pink hair. I had dyed it because I constantly had trouble with being kind. I had little sympathy for people, so the color pink reminded me that some people do hurt like I do. It reminded me to have compassion for others. I got made fun of a lot for having such a “girly” hair color. I never listened, though. It was a decision that I made to better myself, even if I got beaten up for it. We both shifted so that Ash was on my lap. I tugged at the bottom of her crop top. My hand slid up her spine. I felt a tremor go through her body. My hand slid back down her spine, resting at her hip. I unconsciously tilted my head to deepen the kiss. We kissed more and more passionately by the second. After a moment, I unintentionally slid my hand down and lightly touched her on the back of her thigh. She stopped moving. “Stop.” “What?” I pulled away. “What’s wrong?” “Just stop.” She pulled away and got up. Without looking back, she ran away. I stared after her in disbelief. It took a moment for it to click. “Oh, no. I’m a terrible person.” I put my head in my hands. “What did you do?” Victoria’s expression hardened. I beckoned to her. I whispered in her ear, “I touched her where he did.” She stared at me, horrified. “You are a terrible person.”

This is an excerpt of a story that I’m working on. This part is when one of the main characters, Alexei, and his best friend, Ashlynn, are playing Truth or Dare with their class at a party. Before they were playing, Ashlynn got assaulted by a classmate. Alexei knocked the classmate out in an attempt to protect Ashlynn. But anyway, Alexei gets dared to make out with Ashlynn, whom he affectionately calls “Ash.” At first he blatantly refuses, but Ashlynn insists that it doesn’t bother her, and so they make out. Victoria is Ashlynn’s other best friend, by the way.

That’s amazing!! I’m an aspiring (fan) fiction writer and hope to actually be as good as that one day ahahaha….

Same haha, i write alot of fanfiction but i’m moving on to an actual novel soon.

wow!! me too this article helped me a lot. im 13 and i write lots of fanfictions on wattpad and kissing scenes are the hardest to write.

Damn. I want more

I’m having a hard time writing my first kissing scene. This helps lot!

ok…? once i had a dream where i was playing Spin The Bottle (not that I’d ever do that in real life) with some acquaintances of mine, and I had to kiss this one guy that i don’t like very much. it was a pretty weird dream.

Lev snickered slightly as he put his forehead to mine. Our lips were so close I could have easily kissed them. I felt his breath on my lips and closed my eyes, cherishing the moment. He leaned in closer and placed his lips upon mine. We were like that for a minute until he heated things up a little. He Kissed me harder as he gently tugged at my hair. “L-lev!” I exclaimed, pulling away a little and gasping for air. My eyes met his and I relaxed. His Green eyes gave me a lustful look.

What do you think?

That’s cool!!!

personally i don’t believe in the zodiac, but if you use the zodiac kissing/cuddling/flirting styles that match your character it can really help, or at least i think so here’s a part of my writing: Bill and Ford sit on the grass. Bill presses his forehead against the side of her face. Stanford just pokes him in the cheek. Bill smiles and closes his eyes pulling Ford closer. She pushes him back a bit.

“Aw, what’s wrong?” Bill asks with a fake pout.

“Nothing.” She says softly while laying her head on his shoulder and scratching the back of his head. Bill begins to pick the wild buttercups and and evening primroses to weave a crown which he put on her head. Ford gently pecks him on the cheek and chuckles softly. He pulls her in closer again and kisses her. Her eyes widen at the surprise but she soon became familiar with his fiery aggressiveness. As they fell into the grass Stanford broke from his iron grip and started giggling.

“I know you’re incapable of fun, but you should try laughing more, its so cute.” He smiles.

She just chuckles some more. “I don’t know how to respond to that.” He grabs her chin and kisses her again, this time she expected the bite. He presses his forehead against hers and looks at her. “Your eyes are like swirling galaxies.”

“I’ve heard it before.” She says pulling his tie and poking his nose.

“I should become an an astronomer because I can’t stop studying them.” She hits him on the back of the head before giving him another peck on the cheek.

“Do you know how hard it is when you have no one to talk to? When you are the only one that is different? Do you know what it feels like when nobody is there to love you? I don’t think I can do this anymore.” Vladimir put his hand underneath my chin and made me look at him. His bright green eyes lit up by the mini him. “No one and nobody?” I could feel his fire burn through the coldness that I was feeling. His hand that was on my chin moved to my cheek and his other moved up my arm. He trailed his fingertips on my forearm barely even touching me. It made me shiver, he didn’t look away from me when a car honked. I was scared lost in the pools of his eyes, I didn’t know if I wanted my first kiss to be with the person I’m not even supposed to be attracted to. Before I could even think of his brother finding out his lips parted mine. It was gentle at first he wasn’t sure if I wanted it, then it got firmer as I didn’t pull back. His hand went behind my neck and pulled my closer to his face, the other hand laying my on the ground. I don’t know if I was expecting fireworks, but this felt different than what I had imagined my first kiss would feel like. My hands wrapped around his neck before I could even think about anything. This is what I wanted. I didn’t want his brother, I wanted him. I felt the sand in my hair as he rolled my on top of him. This is apart of my fiction story where this girl is engaged to the prince, but found out that she is more attracted to his brother. This had happened before with the brothers where Henry’s (The one that the girl is engaged to) ex-wife thought she was in love with Vladimir and Henry had her killed after he had found out that she was sleeping with Vladimir.

I love it so much! Is it being published? I would love to read it.

“Can I kiss you?” I bit down on my bottom lip, nodding. “Close your eyes.” I shut my eyes, tilting my head slightly. Her hand moved to the small of my back, steadying me. She tilted her head, and I felt her hair brush my elbow as her lips met mine. I moved my hand down her face, resting it on the back of her neck. She wrapped her arm around my waist as she moved her mouth against mine, anxiety and worries making way to numbness. It was the kind of kiss that was so intoxicating your brain couldn’t handle thinking about anything else. We only broke when we needed to breathe, and I briefly basked in the image of her heavy-lidded eyes and slightly messy hair before our lips met again. She deepened the kiss, pulling me on top of her so that my legs were straddling hers. It was so much and not enough all at once. A high pitched scream broke us apart, ringing through the entirety of the school grounds.

The second the door closed, Henry was on Michael in a heartbeat, pinning him against the wall. Already it was far out of bounds of public modesty. Michael could feel Henry ever so slightly brushing his tongue over his bottom lip, requesting entrance. Michael denied. Rejected but not disheartened, Henry moved down to Michael’s neck. A small moan slipped out from between his lips as Henry nipped just below his ear lobe, before he made his devious way down to suck a lovebite on Michael’s sunkissed skin. His slender fingers were gently caressing the curve of Michael’s hip, while the other was softly grasping his jaw. Henry suddenly had the power to turn his husband’s legs to jelly, leaving him undone with just a few kisses and some very strategic touching. Michael felt helpless, his eyes shut and his head lolling backwards against the wall in a trance of tongue. At last, Michael gave in to Henry’s wordless requests, and as his sweet lips toyed with his, he was finally granted entrance. Michael struggled to keep his footing as Henry’s tongue softly mapped every inch of his mouth. As they broke apart for air, Michael took the opportunity to sensibly suggest that it probably wasn’t the best idea to get intimate in the hallway, as much as he wanted to. Henry agreed.

“Do you want to take this upstairs, or finish it later?” He smirked, before turning to inspect the delicious red mark he had left on Michael’s neck. He seemed proud of his work, and Michael couldn’t disagree. He was shaking, and felt like if the wall behind him wasn’t there, then he would have collapsed ages ago.

Michael considered his options for a few seconds. He could either go upstairs and be rendered subject to Henry’s magic, or walk away and start cooking dinner, and risk his kids seeing the red mark on his neck. He didn’t think he had enough mental strength for the latter.

“Let’s go up…”

Michael went up the stairs first, so that Henry would be there to catch him if his knees gave way. When he reached the landing without falling, he couldn’t say he wasn’t a bit proud of himself. He opened the door on the left to their bedroom, and Henry stepped in after him. He slowly shut the door behind himself, a kind of hunger in his eyes which Michael couldn’t quite place. It was almost predatorial, but he liked it.

“Come here. Gosh, your lips look…. delicious.”

Michael obliged without word.

“Gosh, your lips are delicious.” Henry murmured, sending sparks and shivers up Michael’s spine.

i can’t stop reading this, it’s really well written. i always reference it when writing because of how good and descriptive it is. great job!

That’s soooooo awesome!!! If that book is coming out, I will buy it. I have been looking trough the comments for so long and this is until now the best of all. I just wrote my first kissing scene and I think it ended up pretty good. This gave me so many ideas and I hope it’s okay, if I copy it? That was just really good job!

I’ve never had the chance to ever kiss anyone so making one up is even more difficult then I could even imagine I don’t know how to describe it but this sort of helped

Same, I’ve never had a kiss before so it’s harder then it should be

he grabbed my hand and pulled me back inside his grip was firm and the next thing I knew he slammed his lips to mine and nearly knocked all wind from my lungs. I hardly had time to react before he pressed his tongue to the seam of my lips I opened my mouth in shock he delved inside my mouth. It was a very sloppy kiss with the strong scent of mint being exchanged in the intermingling of our billowing breaths. He let go of my lips and we took in a deep breath before he dulged back in I could feel his saliva as it rolled off my tongue and seeped down my throat with every push of his tongue against mine.

I’m working on a romance novel and these totally helped!! There are two characters. It’s being told from the girl’s perspective. Neither has had their first kiss. The girl is uninterested, but the boy really likes her. Gradually, she begins to like him but they aren’t dating. There is some low-key flirting and a few romantic moments but nothing serious. I’m planning to have to boy go in for a kiss, but I have no idea how I want to describe it. He’s kind and considerate, but he’s also been having feelings for her for a long time and he wants to go all in. Anyone here have something I can tweak that I can use?

Here is one that I have been working on:

We stared at the sunset for a minute. I stared at the rosy clouds and commented, “It looks like I can just pluck the clouds out of the sky and eat them. Don’t they look like cotton candy?” He laughs. “I love the way you think.” I sigh, stretching my arms above my head and then placing them behind my back on the soft mossy ground. I lean on my elbows, and then, eventually, lie down completely. I fold my hands behind my head and watch the last of the sun’s rays disappear below the horizon. The first stars begin to peek out from the black curtain sweeping above out heads and the light of the full moon. There aren’t any crater or bruises — just a polished sphere of white looking down at me. I glanced at Ethan, surprised to realize that he was looking at me. Or, more specifically, my lips. “Is something wrong?” I ask. “Is my make-up smudged?” “Or something,” he agrees, staring at me with something in his eyes that I hadn’t seen before. I couldn’t help but feel a little nervous. “Is something wrong?” my voice caught. He didn’t reply, instead leaning in closer. He lay down next to me, propped up by his elbow. His face was only a hair’s breadth away from mine. I turned to look at him and he pressed forward. He kissed me. I had known in my heart all along. He loved me. And now it it me full force. His hand crept up my spine, pulling me in close. His hand rested on my hip and behind my neck. His lips started to open mine. Trembling, I obeyed. I almost couldn’t breathe as his roving hands swept up my hips. I knew that he wanted me to kiss him back. I wanted to as well, but I was so shocked that I was completely immobilized. He pulled away. “Kiss me,” he whispered. I pressed my lips to his. My hand ran through his dark hair. I felt a tremor go through his body before he wrapped his arm around me. He slid his body on top of mine, bracing himself with his elbows so I didn’t get the full brunt of his weight. He kissed me harder, almost aggressively. His mouth opened mine. I swiveled my head back and forth, mapping out his mouth. I was wrapped up in the kiss, and I didn’t want it to stop. His hands clutched my forearms, preventing me from moving. His arms stopped carrying so much of the weight and he pushed down on top of me. He ran his fingers through my hair. I couldn’t breathe, what with my shock and his weight. I pushed off of the ground and he slid his body off of mine. In the process, his lips parted with mine and we both panted heavily. Then I scooted closer. I hadn’t been this close to someone before, and it made me feel safe. I kissed him gently, nothing fancy. I stood up, knowing that we couldn’t stay here forever. He did the same. “Goodbye,” I murmured, my lips wet. And before he could say anything, I took off, sprinting towards my house.

I really like the writing, just the “swiveled my head back and forth” part is a little weirdly worded.

Okay, I have a fanfiction that I’m working on, and I’m trying with the kiss scene. Please tell me your thoughts. The setting is they are laying on Will’s bed on their sides looking at each other: He cut me off with a sloppy kiss, due to our awkward position on the bed. I kissed back, grabbing his arm to pull him on top of me. Will nibbled my bottom lip making me let out a soft moan, which Will took as an opportunity to slip his tongue into my mouth. We moved in sync, passionately kissing each other. I felt connected to Will at that moment, more than I ever had before. He pulled off my lips and swiftly moved to my neck. He sucked and licked his way down, leaving marks that I’d later have to cover up later. I tugged at the hem of his shirt, and he knew what I wanted. In one quick motion he whipped off his shirt, and I sat up for a second to take off mine. There was a gleam in Will’s azure eyes that made chills crawl down my spine. He shoved me back down on the bed and kissed me again. I ran my hands through WIll’s golden locks, tugging at the back, making Will groan in response. Will had been hovering over me this whole time, but he now layed down, the weight of him crushing me, but in a good way. I could feel his boner digging into my thigh, which just turned me on even more. He left my lips again, kissing down my stomach. I was about to tell him to keep going when there was loud banging on the door. “WILLLLL!!! NICCOOOOO!! DINNER!!” Kayla yelled.

Oh my gods. Solangelo?

Oh my gods!!! Solangelo!!!

OMFG!!!!! SOLANGELOOO! LESSGOOO

wow nice touch really felt real

I am a complete and absolute bookworm. I am writing a novel [trying to] to enter in the young authors award. That article was really helpful as were the comments. I have a brief idea on how to write a kissing scene as though i am actually there. Thanks guys!

I’m writing a story, and I tried to write a kissing scene, but since I’ve never kissed anyone, I don’t know how good or bad this is.

“Well, I don’t know, there’s just something that I really wanna do,” he says, resting his hand on the back of his neck. Before I can ask what, he presses his lips to mine. At first, the kiss is sweet, kind of like a looooong peck. But all the innocence is stripped away as he parts my lips with his. He slides his tongue along my bottom lip, and I moan softly. He slips his tongue inside my mouth, and we battle for dominance as he leads me towards the bed. He gently pushes me down onto the bed. He climbs on top of me, resting on his elbows, careful to not put his full weight on me. He connects his lips to mine once again, and as soon as our tongues meet again, the door opens and we jump apart, Will quickly climbing off of me. I look over to see who interrupted our heated make-out session, and I see Connor standing there, smirking.

so ive been working on this story for a while now in 14 and never been kissed this website gave me a good idea of what to write could I maybe get some feedback . thanks guys 🙂 stay safe .

now im stood here in the middle of the hall looking around frantically , i need to find him right now . i take a step forward because i think i saw him but i was wrong then i take a step back in frustration and i bump into someone as i turn to apologise i see him his perfectly sculpted face.

for whats eens like eternitys we just stare directly into eachothers eyes most people would look at his eyes and see beautiful green baut at this very moment i see mountains and maps and thousands of miles of beautiful senary surrounded by coulors no one even knows exist and only i will ever see. i see myself and i see a future full of love as he looks down at my slightly parted lips. i know whats about to happen we both lean into eachother in slow motion only breaking eye contact for a few seconds to look down at his lips . our mouths touch the slightest bit and i pull away with anxiety then we begin closing the gap even more and then gradually this small peck becomes this much more passionate kiss with its own lifeline surviving by the slight movements of our toungs dancing in our mouths were connected body and soul in this moment the rest of the world spins so fast it becomes nonexistent in my mind . i lean further in to hold him and keep myself from melting into the floor, our eyes are closed but i can see clearer than i ever have. Its asif i can feel fireworks blazing , glowing and igniting something within me . were completely and utterly in sync in this very moment, i can feel his hands running through my hair and im tugging at his this moment couldn’t be anymore perfect. We both slow down and cautiously pull back i noow remember that everyone is staring at us and i can hear them clapping but i don’t care i look up into his eyes as i hug him and i realize he doesn’t care either we were together and thats all that mattered .

This will be the first kissing scene I’m going to write for my book, hope someone can give me a feedback. I’m a bit scared it’s not good enough..

And for a brief moment, they both just stared fondly at each other eyes.

Then Yoongi gently held Aen’s face with his other hand, tilts his head and slowly started leaning towards her.

Aen felt her heartbeat accelerate and when Yoongi’s face was just an inch away from her face, she abruptly close her eyes.

Yoongi felt the same, although his heart has been beating rapidly ever since Aen said she loves him for who he is. And when he saw her close her eyes, he smiled.

And finally the feelings they had for each other was sealed as their lips meet.

They both felt happy and complete, and the 0 on their wrist glowed at the same time as well indicating their souls have bonded .

Aen feels Yoongi put her hand that was on his face behind his neck, then his hand was on her waist and pulled her a bit closer.

The kiss is sweet and is full of affection.

they shared made them feel like time had stop just for them and that this moment was already predestined to happen.

And as they both parted for a breather, they look at each other’s eyes and smiled.

The suprised studio date was really worth it.

I think it’s great, I myself don’t really like the very graphic kiss descriptions (that’s just me) but this is really good! make it a bit more consistent either past or present tense, as you’ve got “they both just stared fondly” and also “Aen feels Yoongi” so, just choose past or present tense and stick with one or the other is my advice.

I have never been kissed before im also working on something this is really good!!!!

Omg, guys! These are so good! I’m writing a novel, however, I have never been kissed before. Tell me what you think:

I stared at the sunset, the swirling twilight mixing with the dark purples and oranges and the red sun to make a spiraling masterpiece. I sighed with content, propping myself up with the heels of my hands. I turn my head to scratch an itch when I see Andrew staring at me. “What?” I ask, nervous. Then I clear my throat to try and remove the squeak in my voice. “Is something wrong?” It doesn’t work. Why am I nervous? I shouldn’t be nervous—nothing’s going on. After all, I’ve known him for a month now, and there haven’t been any sparks. Have there? My knees start trembling, and in an effort to retain our friendship—and my dignity— I smooth my skirt over them. In an effort to look casual, I say, “This looks like something you’d paint, Andrew.” He shakes his head and doesn’t elaborate. Eventually, he stands up and holds his hand out. I take it and gently pull myself up. “Audrey, there’s… something I should tell you.” He stares at me with that intense look in his eyes, that look where you can tell he’s thinking hard. His wide, blue eyes stare at me, and I reach for his hands. There’s something so irresistible about his stare. And before I can stop myself, I lean forward until my face brushes up against his. I wait a moment, in case he wants to pull away, but he doesn’t. And for a second, I doubt myself. My emotions are so tangled, no comb could straighten them. But there’s something that could. So I close that last bit of space and press my lips against his. I can tell he’s been waiting for this moment. And strangely, semi-consciously, so have I. He slides his hands down my hips and I shiver, and he senses it. He cradles me in his arms, tilting his head to deepen the kiss, and I part my lips. I wrap my arms around him, closing every last bit of space, and he picks me up; I’m much shorter than him. I run my hands through his thick, brown hair and smile. I never thought I’d be touching him like this before. He carries me to his house, setting me down on the porch. We part for a moment, breathing in, before indulging ourselves once more. I’ve always been so shy, but that part of me melts away. I tug at his shirt, urging him to take it off. With a sexy smile, he takes my hands, evading my efforts and leads me inside. We make it to his bedroom, not bothering to close the door before he scoops me up again. I feel so… brave in his arms. His hand slides up my back, warm and soothing. I melt into his touch and squeeze him to me. I want more but… I just can’t seem to get it. I pull away, and our eyes meet. He understands. He feels it too. And with that, he’s on top of me, tugging off my shirt and his. I run my hand down his chest, hard with muscle. I’m so indulged I vaguely sense him working at the button on my jeans. I lay back on the bed, stretching out my arms, inviting him to join me. He does, pressing his lips to mine, his minty breath is intoxicating, pulling me in, I scoot closer, my heart pounding. His lips part mine, and our tongues meet. I map out his mouth, feeling every inch. I slide my hands down his waist as his hands tangle in my hair. I haven’t been this close to anyone, ever. I don’t want anything else. I just need him. There’s no distractions, we dissolve into each other’s bodies. It all happened so fast, but I can’t feel anything else. There’s nothing else but Andrew.

Ok, are you a proffesional writer? Because it sure seems like you are . I mean seriously. How do you evn get that good?!

Ok, so this is a story that I finished a while ago, and I’m just gonna type up the kiss scene here, that is, if anyone can see it. My comments are kinda unapproved, so here goes. This story is about a girl named Amethyst who is secretly a hero named the Black Jaguar (not the Black Panther, that’s someone else.). She is friends (okay… more than that) with a guy named Easton. And as a superhero, Black Jaguar has a partner named Blue Tiger. This is the kissing scene between Amethyst and Easton, where they are in the woods, and (for some as yet unknown reason) they’re talking about their favorite types of kisses. This was my very first kissing scene I ever wrote, so please just read, and don’t judge. (the word are slightly changed from the original for this, btw.)

“I like the really slow kisses, the kind that go for a long time,” Easton said. “Shall I demonstrate?” Now Amethyst was completely shocked. Her heart began to hammer in her chest. “On me?!” she squeaked. Easton waggled his blonde eyebrows at her. “Of course on you, silly! Who else is there?” Easton said. Around them, the woods were mostly silent, except for the occasional bird song. “So do you want to?” Amethyst blushed fuchsia. In a very small voice, she said, “OK.” Easton then scooted over to her, his sea-green eyes filled with a smoldering passion as he came closer and closer, until he was less than an inch away from her. Amethyst’s heart was thumping hard, and her soft, freckled cheeks were a fiery shade of red. Easton placed his strong hands gently on her small shoulders, and lowered his face to hers. His forehead touching hers, he brought his lips to hers, and he kissed her gently, pressing his mouth to hers. The feeling of fire completely consumed Amethyst, and she was lost the kiss they shared. Their first kiss was a long one, full of mutual passion and a shared love. Easton buried his hands in her dark hair, running his fingers through it as he kissed her with an unearthly fire and passion. Amethyst felt herself falling backward, landing on the mossy ground with a slight thud. Amethyst ran her hands up his chest, it being surprisingly muscular for someone so slim, and Easton rolled to be on top of her, letting out a groan of delight. Easton’s hands moved out of Amethyst’s hair to keep himself up, and Easton gently opened Amethyst’s small mouth to let his tongue in. Amethyst’s violet eyes opened in surprise at the feel of his tongue in her mouth, but she eventually succumbed to Easton’s ministrations. Easton lifted his head up, long enough for him to whisper, “Amethyst, why don’t you kiss m–” but the rest of his sentence was cut off by Amethyst pressing her lips to his. Amethyst felt like her skin was on fire, as heat coursed through her veins, but she kept it up. She always wanted to be with this boy, she realized. Placing her hands on Easton’s strong shoulders, she sat up, and they stopped for a moment, the kissing having made them breathless but grinning. Amethyst swooped towards him, her mouth making contact in a moment, and she landed on top of him. With her on top of him, and Easton taking advantage of this moment to run his hands down her skirt-covered legs, and Amethyst placing her slender hands under his shirt and up his back. Finally, they broke apart, breathing heavily and lying on top of each other. “That was…great, for a first, second and third kiss,” Amethyst panted, getting off of Easton. Then they got up and ran hand in hand, into the distance, where destiny was calling their names.

In my book, it is pretty different than the rough draft, where someone sneaks up behind them and takes a picture of them kissing. And in the book, they have to cut the make-out session short to go change into their superhero costumes (but neither knows that the other is a superhero). Also, shouldn’t there be a stopping point in the kissing? I mean, I have standards for this stuff, so….. yeah. Anyway, hope you like it, and I hope I did it right!

(I’m a 15 year old girl and this is my first “spicy” scene as I like to call them XD.)

His breath is hot on my neck and I can feel a bulge pressed on my lower back. “What do you want me to do?” He whispers in my ear. Tingles shoot through my body from hearing those words. “I want you to show me you love me.” I say breathily. His hands snake around my lower back to my stomach slightly pulling me closer. Soft kisses trail up my neck as he turns me around planting a passionate kiss on my lips. Our lips move in unison changing from passionate to fiery lust. My hands touch his face bringing him closer to me deepening the kiss. He pulls away breathing heavily looking into my eyes. “Let’s go to the bedroom.” He says with a husky voice. In one smooth sweep, I am carried into the air. We share teasing kisses as he walks slowly to the room. Sitting on the bed I straddle him, he grins before flipping me over with him on top. With a look in his eyes for approval, I nod. He kisses from my neck to between my breasts to my stomach then stops to look at me. He kisses lower and lower teasing my hot skin before opening my legs… (So, how was the scene?)

It goes very quickly. I think its too short. I don’t know where the clothes come off or if she’s nervous or if he’s excited or…

i would suggest maybe describing how the kisses feel (tingling, shocks, sparks, etc.) if you’re going to make this type of scene i advise to put more details in how they look. if they are blushing if they are taking in each other’s eyes (what colour are they?). adding what type of clothes they wear.

wow 😳 it’s crazy

Hey everyone, I’m really late to this, but please tell me what you think! I would love any feedback – this is just the middle bit of a kiss description. I realise it’s not that good but the only way I will improve is from your feedback.

Her skin was soft but her lips were chapped and weathered. As Michael ran his hand across her cheek he felt an irregularity, a scar of some kind. In his opinion it made her more beautiful and unique, like a gorgeous butterfly. She was new, yet felt oddly familiar. She fit perfectly into his arms, her lips seemed moulded to the shape of his and his hands curled around hers so perfectly he felt they had been made for him. Close up, she smelt familiar, somehow: wine, roses, honey… she reminded him of his home. She tasted like anything amorous. She tasted like tenderness, warmth and intimacy – he imagined holding her by a bonfire, watching the reflection of the flames dancing across her skin. She tasted like pure, clear water, as though it came straight from a spring. She tasted like passion, like pure, unrestrained passion. Whatever she tasted like, it made Michael want more.

Dang! This is soooo good. It’s really deep and descripitive. You don’t even need feedback!

DANG! It’s brilliant! Really deep and descriptive. I tried to think of feedback but it doesn’t need any; it’s so perfect. Great job dude!

Wow that’s awesome! I’ve never written a kissing scene before nor have I been kissed but I’m doing my best to figure out the best way to do mine.

wow, that was really good!!! you put the right amount of decryption in every little action and you pinpoint every single detail beautifully

“Can you come here Ezlyn?” “Sure David.” We walked into the woods and David started speaking. “Over this year I have realised how I need you in my life. I realised that I woke up to see you smile and laugh. I can’t live without you, I need you by my side.” “David,” This was very odd for him. “No let me finish. I need to love you. You are so special to me, you can’t even know how much I love you. I love you so much.” He leaned forward and I took a step back to find my back against a tree. My nose breathed in his sandalwood cologne and I was immediately calmed. He wiped a strand of hair from my face and gently began to kiss my lips. He wrapped his hands around my neck and the kiss became more aggressive. My stomach flipped and knotted and my knees became weak. Time stopped and both of our personalities changed. David became bold, I became shy, and I loved it. David stopped to breathe and then came back to my face. His kisses were like black holes pulling you in until you are lost. It was a sweet but bruising kiss that left me wanting more, but it wasn’t enough. I grabbed his collar, pulled his blue shirt and himself closer. I slipped my hands through his hair, getting caught on knottes. He picked me up and leaned me against the tree. I wrapped my legs around his waist, supporting myself. His tongue pressed against my lips, asking for permission to enter my mouth. I granted it to him. His mouth tastes like a sweet mint, spicy but not overwhelming. His grip slipped and we fell to the ground, he chuckled. “Hey, that was n-not fun-ny.” I whispered in between kisses. “Then let me kiss the pain away.” “Deal.” He laid on top of me kissing me and making me forget. He made me forget the past year almost completely. David slowed down until he stopped, leaving a searing heat on my lips. “Well, that was, uhh, hot.” “Hot, that is the word you came up with David. What about ravishing, heated, sweet, thrilling or even exciting.” “Yeah those words are better.” “Consider yourself lucky.” “Why, Ezlyn?” “Well I don’t kiss a lot of people.” “You haven’t kissed anyone before me have you?” “No. That is very rude to say, but, it might be true.” I whispered. “I haven’t kissed anyone either.” I smiled knowing that David was mine and only mine. He wrapped his arm around my shoulder and I rested on his chest. We fell asleep like that and I slept better that night than I ever did in the past year. I am 12 and a horror writer. I have copyrights to the book.

It’s really good. David’s sweet and Ezlyn is super cool. Nice job!

These stories are awesome! You should all be very proud of yourselves! From Starlight,11

i am writing a book about a girl and a boy who have been friends forever and everyone ships them. she is asexual sadly. im going to be 13 in a few weeks, I’ve never been kissed before and don’t think i ever will cause im hideous, and writing kissing scenes are the hardest since ive never experienced it before i hope ya like it, (sry if it’s kinda cliche) so here it goes: it started to snow. i started to shiver to try to calm myself down so Luis wouldn’t notice, but he did. he grabbed his jacket and put it on my shoulders as we kept walking down the sidewalk. this was normal for us, to flirt a bit, we had been friends since we were 4 and i didn’t want that to change. “so i’ve been wanting to tell you something, for a while now, . .um” he said breaking the awkward silence “yeah?” “i really really… really like you, and i know what people say about us and that we’re only friends but i can’t hold it anymore” “don’t, no please, were just meant to be friends nothing else, i don want to ruin that” “Please, i have loved you ever since” his voice started to break “im sorry, i really am” “please, can we just try?” “im sorry im just, im really sorry i just can’t fake me feelings towards you, i can’t it would crush you. we would ruin it all! we wouldn’t be like the cute couples in movies where we just end up together” “can’t we just try” he was trying to hold back tears, challenging to fall down his cheeks “no we can’t, i would ruin it all, with my temper and and with everything that i am i would break you! even more than you are now!” “so now were just going to forget everything?” he said in a fierce tone “no! i love you i really do, but not in that way! i reall-” he cut me off by kissing me. iaccept the kiss. it started slow and passionate. i dipped my head getting a better angle of his mouth. we fought for lower lip but eventually calmed down. he took in my gray eyes when i pulled back. “what?” he asked “i thought we where-” “im sorry i can’t” i cut his off looking into his pale blue eyes “wait what?” he asked in confusion “im really sorry, i really am but you know what i am i can’t do this to you” “i can’t believe it. i can’t believe that i actually thought we where going to work out” “no, i don’t mean in that way!” “so we can try?” “no, im sorry i really am, but i cant” ~ this wasn’t really a true kissing scene i just want feedback on what i should do to make it more interesting, it’s terrible, i know but please leave critisism blow i would love to get more ideas…

I think one thing you could try is to make the dialogue less…just them talking, maybe describe how they’re feeling, what they’re doing, etc. It’s good!

Thanks! Your support helps me write.

I’m 12 and I’m attempting to write a romance/mystery novel. I haven’t ever been kissed before so do you guys have any tips for writing a kissing scene? If you do please comment them and I’ll try to use them in my scene. ONce I finish I’ll post it.

I just finished my kiss scene from the novel that I’m writing. So basically Niko and Cinder are from another universe but Cinder let and came to our universe. Niko is a shy soldier with a fierce side. She gets kidnapped and brought to our universe (more commonly known as Universe 27B to her) and is experimented on. She escapes and finds Cinder. There is a special bond between her and Cinder. So here it is.

Everything about her was perfect. The sheer softness of hair running through my hands like water running through a stream. The feel of her lips on mine is just like before. Just like the way she didn’t want to do this or the way that she passionately kisses. I push against her lips and I can sense this is what she wanted, no needed. I feel the pressure of her lips pushing me very slowly towards the edge of the couch. Her skin is cool like the air on an early morning walk. Ohh this is what I needed. I pull away knowing I’m about to fall off the couch. I grab her arm and pull her into the dark corner because that’s where it’s about to get even better. “Ohh Cinder” I hear her moan. All I’m focused on is her beautiful body. I slowly pull her arm towards the corner while still caressing her shoulders and neck and lightly press her against the wall. I pull away to tell her something but she just grabs me and presses her sweet lips against mine even harder to silence whatever I was trying to say. I don’t even know at this point. It’s so overwhelming I can’t remember what I was going to say. All I can think about is how much I’ve missed her. I open my eyes as she pulls away. “No baby, don’t leave.” “Never said I was.” She says with a smirk as she tugs at the hem of my shirt and slowly pulls it off. So this is what she wants.

This is just a first try so please let me know what you think. Thanks! I groan and try to get up. “Woah, Theo. You were just shot. Hold still and let me try to.” I start to chuckle, inducing another wave of pain. He nicknamed me Theo, short for Theodosia. Kinda always had a crush on him since that day 3 years ago. He knows that I’m more private, so he’s stuck playing nurse. “There are worse things than patching up a bullet wound you know,” he says as if reading my thoughts. “Like what? Having fun fighting?” I groan again as he pulls away the layers of clothes. He pauses for a second. “I’m going to roll your tank top, but it’s probably going to hurt. If the blood has started to dry yet, the wound will reopen. I nod and grit my teeth. He pulls up my tank top along with some dry blood. I gasp loudly and he grimaces. “Hey, at least it was just a graze.” “Shut up. You’re going to make me laugh and that hurts.” He smiles. “Okay I have some alcohol and that will work. Just don’t focus on it.” “Yeah, that made me pass out!” I say, closing my eyes. But he was already pouring it. I didn’t have time to think about something else before it started stinging. Until I felt lips on mine. I opened my eyes to him kissing me and my brain almost exploded. He pulled me closer to him, deepening the kiss. I loosely wrapped my arms around him. His rough hands slid up my back and helped support me upright. Cautiously moved my hands up to his face, and eventually his hair. My fingers tangled in until I couldn’t breathe anymore and broke the kiss. I could barely feel the gunshot now.

I’m writing a story, too. I’ve just posted the scene I’m writing and you guys have really helped me write it. I’m so grateful…thank you! your’e guys’s scenes are so great.

This is my story, and basically this girl is having her first kiss in the forest with her boyfriend.

My heart skips a beat and my knees get wobbly. I wasn’t standing up, so I couldn’t fall, but I’m sure I would if I was standing. I curl my hand around his neck, and the other one in his soft, curly hair. I open up and kiss him back, but I’m not quite sure if I’m doing it right. I close my eyes when it happens but secretly open one to see if he’s staring at me. His eyes are closed, too. I feel his cold hand touch my back and pull me a little closer. Shivers run down my spine. I feel my heart racing and my stomach jumps repeatedly. I’m pretty sure I just opened my mouth too wide. His warm breath on my face feels inviting. I can’t put in words how this kiss really feels. It’s like I’m floating, drifting away, and I feel happy…ready for this to end, but not just yet. I know it can’t work out with Caylen. I just want to cherish this one moment. We go on for a while…

What was that? Oh, he stopped. I make an uneasy face. When he smiles hopefully, I make a satisfied face. Caylen stands me up, walks me to my house, and gives me a kiss on the cheek before I excitedly run off to tell Emeline about the romantic adventure I had this afternoon.

Sorry, my story didin’t get posted. its unnaproved or something. but philo’s story is really good! amazing.

Wow. The talent you guys have is mind-blowing! I decided to write a bit of a kissing scene. So ya.

“What are you doing?”, hissed Noah, shutting the door behind them, his mind racing. “You weren’t there yesterday”, Kieran breathed, his eyes looking unearthly in the moonlight, “I wanted to see you”. Before he could reply, Kieran kissed him with such force that he was slammed against the wall. Noah didn’t resist, couldn’t resist, even as Kieran’s knee slipped in between his legs, parting them. The sweet smell of the boy he loved filled his nostrils, the scent calming his troubled mind, clearing it of all thoughts. Noah dragged him onto the bed, and they fell into each other, Kieran’s lips against his, tasting like peppermint and coffee and spices all rolled into one. Kieran paused to take his shirt off, and Noah shivered as he realised how broad his shoulders were. The shape of him, Kieran, took his breath away. And he wanted him all the more for it.

What do you think? It is only a snippet, but I think that it illustrates the characters’ relationship nicely. This is a great site. I HIGHLY recommend ‘Jane Eyre’. It rocks.

This is my character’s first kiss, it’s near the end of the book, so, some of the stuff they talk about might not make sense. This book is aimed at teens-preteens, so…let me know if you think this scene is ok for that age group. Well, here’s the kiss: “Hey!” Brook jumped, looking away from where she’d been watching Paleface and her foal Opal grooming each at the other side of the round pen. Dean was walking towards her. “Hey,” Brook replied, leaning slightly against the rails. “Um, it’s a lovely sunset, isn’t it?” Brook waved a hand around them, the farm and bushland around it was bathed in golden light. “Yes. Just beautiful.” Dean said. Brook was too busy gazing at the warm glow the setting sun left of the land and thinking about the wonderful sunset photos she’d gotten in her two week stay to notice Dean was looking at her. “How’s your arm?” Dean asked, pointing at her left arm, which was strapped in a sling. “Fine, it doesn’t hurt anymore unless I bump it or jar it, which I’m getting a little better at avoiding.” Brook said. She remembered the horrible pain when her arm had broken the evening before. “Jackson’s a real jerk doing that.” Dean said. ” But, you did really well, you were so brave.” He moved a little closer, laying his hand on Brook’s. “Thanks. In truth, I was terrified, but I knew I couldn’t just let him do that, I had to save Paleface and Opal.” “Does your arm hurt if I touch it?” Dean asked, reaching out and running his hand from her shoulder down to her wrist. “No,” Brook said. Dean stepped closer and put his arms around Brook, she buried her face in his shirt, there was something so comforting about Dean. He slipped a hand under her chin, raising her face. Brook gazed up at him, she noticed how gently he held her so he didn’t hurt her arm, and his smile, then he slightly titled his head, Brook did the same, in the other direction. Then she shut her eyes. Dean’s lips brushed softly against hers, she felt their lips lock, his breath soft on her cheek. She could stay like this forever. Then Dean pulled back gently and released her. “You…you kissed me?” Brook gasped. “Yes, I thought it would be okay…I’m sorry.” Dean looked flustered. “No, it’s fine, I was just surprised.” “I’ll really miss you when you leave tomorrow.” Dean whispered before turning and hurrying back to the house, leaving Brook gazing after him, unsure what to do next, or what would even happen next.

That’s it. What do you think? There is a lot of talking not much kissing, but, yeah…it is for younger readers. I’m not into all the “gaping maw” and stuff of one of the examples. I nearly puked when I read that. Anyway, Dean and Brook have known each for two weeks and been through a lot together (they’re teenagers, not adults, btw) and they have flirted a little but not anything serious. I’m thinking this will be a series and they may kiss again, but similar sort of kisses to the one I’m sending.

I think your kiss is great!

Okay, so I know I’m pretty late here, but here’s a scene from the novel I’m writing. I’ve never kissed anyone, so I was looking for some feedback. It’s a flashback of a time that the two main characters, Levi and Callisto, kissed. It’s told from Callisto’s perspective, and for a bit of background, they have been friends since they were seven. They had a falling out when they were thirteen, but the year before that is when the flashback takes place. In the current year (When L+C are 16) Callisto’s older sister, Emmeline, is getting married, so Callisto is kind of thinking about romance and the only time she’s kissed someone (which was Levi). So yeah, here it is:

I kissed Levi, once. It was about a year before the fight, back when Emmie had been dating Tristan for just a little while. We were sitting together on a set of concrete steps, near where we had first met. We weren’t really doing much, just sitting around, talking, enjoying one-another’s company. Or at least, I was enjoying his. I think he enjoyed my company, too, but I couldn’t quite tell. It was always hard to tell with Levi. “Has Henry ever kissed anyone?” I asked Levi. Henry was the same age as Emmie, so I figured he might have. Levi wrinkled his nose. “No.” He said it simply and matter-of-factually, like that was the end of the conversation. “Oh. Emmie has a boyfriend, now. His name is Tristan. He’s okay, but he and Emmie spend a lot of time kissing.” “That’s disgusting,” Levi said, shaking his head slightly, like he was disappointed that my sister would participate in such vulgar activity. For a moment, his face screwed up in thought, “No, Henry hasn’t kissed anyone.” He sounded as though he was trying to convince himself. “Have you ever kissed someone?” I asked. It seemed like the next question in what I thought was a rather logical train of thought. If it was possible, he looked even more disgusted. “No.” “Oh,” we were both quiet, for a minute, then I asked, “Do you want to try?” He looked confused. “Try what?” “Kissing.” He turned a little green. “No.” We were both quiet for another minute. I noticed he seemed unsure. Then, he seemed to be considering it. “Okay, maybe we should try it,” he resolved, speaking slowly and methodically, as though Congress had just reached the biggest decision of the century. “Great!” I exclaimed. I was excited to try it. Emmie sure seemed to like it. I leaned in towards him, but he pulled away. “Wait!” He yelped, “I don’t know how! I’ve never seen anyone kiss before.” That thought hadn’t occurred to me. “Never? Not even your parents?” He shook his head, his cheeks flushed pink. “Well, that’s okay, I’ll show you. I’ve seen Emmie do it, and Mama and Papa, too.” I leaned in again, and this time, he only shrunk back slightly. I put my hands on his shoulders. “There. And you put your hands on my waist.” He did what I said, looking immensely uncomfortable. “What now?” “Now, we close our eyes.” He squeezed his eyes shut, and I did the same. I leaned in slowly towards him. I opened my eyes slightly, to make sure he hadn’t leaned away. When our lips touched, he shrunk back a little, but we stayed like that for a minute, and he seemed to be more comfortable. Maybe it wasn’t a real kiss. Maybe we weren’t boyfriend and girlfriend like Tristan and Emmie, and maybe we never would be, but I felt a lot closer to him in that moment. I felt my heartbeat quicken and smelled the missing half of the butterscotch pudding I’d shared with him earlier. Then, the moment had passed, and we leaned away from each other. I was smiling, but he looked confused. “That was it?” he asked. “Did you like it?” He shrugged. “I don’t get what the big deal is.” That was when I realized that maybe he hadn’t felt it. Maybe he hadn’t felt the closeness, hadn’t felt his heartbeat quicken, or smelled the butterscotch on my breath. “Do you wanna do it again?” I asked. He shook his head. “No.” No, never again.

So yeah, it wasn’t much, just an innocent two-kids-kissing scene, but I’d still like feedback if anyone happens to read this. And I do have other stories where there will probably be more romance than this one, but I really don’t have much experience with writing kissing scenes (or kissing) so I thought this would be a good place to start. Anyway, let me know what you think of the scene!

Hey Katie, your story rocks. That’s all I have to say. You write like a pro. Have any tips for aspiring young writers?

Also, I like the way your character has a lot of personality. It really brings the story together and makes it more relatable. The comment about the butterscotch pudding is spot on, because it brings back the fact that they’re only twelve and still trying things out. This is my interpretation of the story; Levi is a mysterious and (possibly?) mildly autistic character. I say this because I’ve written and read about people like him, but it’s hard to know without context. Callisto is a slightly insecure, intelligent (but she doesn’t know it) and loving young girl in the story. My impression is that she is possibly now hardened by life and that she was hit with it in one big explosion of self-realisation. Possibly her fight with Levi? It she a soldier or someone who was exposed to a high level of experience all at once? Because that would make a lot of sense. If not, what is her story? It seems like it would be a really interesting one. Anyway, sorry about all this, but I couldn’t help myself. You’re writing like an experienced adult. Are you?

Okay, so basically, this is mine. So Jenny and Caylen travel to this magical world, and theres akwardness between them, but soon, Theres this war and stuff. (I’m not gonna get into the details.) But they both might die, so Caylen just goes for it. Although it’s told in Caylen’s perspective. Um…lemme know for comments and stuff. Hope u like it. today is my birthday anyway.

I stare deep into his hazel eyes. Did he feel the same way about me? As I did him? The truth is, I love him. He’s sweet, and kind…gentle, brave, handsome, funny, and he’s just…amazing. As he leaned closer, and closed his eyelids, I stared at him. Was he going to kiss me? He likes…me? Out of all the girls he could choose from. His lips get closer to mine, and I lean forward.

Our lips touched, and I somehow knew, from the moment, that he felt the same way. Time stopped and no one else existed but Caylen. My lips parted, and I kissed him. It was soft, at first. His lips brushed mine delicately, like butterfly wings. Then he pressed his lips on mine, a little harder, then he stopped, unsure. He kissed me again, and each time, I felt the excitement, and craving, of the kiss.

Lightning passed through me, and I felt lost, in a different universe, slowly flying away. I finally shut my eyes and really kiss him back. I curl my fingers into his brown, curly hair, the other around his neck. My heart beats fast, and my knees wobble. His cold hand creeps from my neck to my back, and he pulls me closer, deepening the kiss. A shiver runs down my spine as his other hand tangles in my hair. His delicate, innocent kiss, makes my heart flutter, and wiggle. Then my heart races, and my stomach jumps repeatedly, as his lips press against mine again. I breathe through my nose, so I don’t run out of breath. I let him kiss me as long as he wants. I let go, but then go back, and kiss him softly, determinedly, sweat dripping down my face.

No, you can’t. You have a war to fight.

I tell my conscience to let me cherish this moment. I curl both my arms on his neck, and put my hands together. I then get uncomfortable and put both on his shoulders. He stops kissing me, and I wonder if I moved too much.

“I…I can’t, I’m not sure if I..” I start, then trail off. I look away as I say it.

“I am sure,” Caylen says.

“Of…Of what?” I ask, worriedly.

“Of one thing..” He puts his arms on my shoulders, and he looks determined. “I…I love you, Jenny. You’re just…just awesome.”

I stare deep into his eyes again, until I kiss him again. This time it’s one peck, and we put our foreheads together and stare at the ground. I pant, until I look up at him and make an uneasy face. I ran out of breath. He picks me up, and I wrap my legs around his torso. I kiss his lips repeatedly, and then I stare down at him. He’s happy. That’s all I want right now. I kiss him another time, and then tell him,

“I have to go, I have to fight,” I say. I hold his hand and we walk to the battlefield.

Across the plain, I see Quests, Icicle people, Cavemen, dragons, bears, everyone fighting, with scratches, blood, and pain everywhere. There is a mixture of yells, screams, yelps for help. One person punches another, as somebody slices a sword through one. A bear with long claws slices a cavemens face. I worriedly look around for my mom, and Emeline, but I notice Rachel on top of a tree, hitting a caveman in the head, then kicking his balls, yelling in achievment. I start to run out to fight too, but I stop. I turn around.

“I love you too, Caylen.”

Thats it. You probably don’t understand, since it’s pert of the story, but you know. The kiss is the best part. Hppy late valentines day, now that I think about it. Thanks for your ideas, comment if u like it

This last one is told in Jenny’s perspective. I was thinking about the wrong thing. It’s a boy and a girl. And they’re not…you know, gay. So…yes

Ruby’s is really good. I never kissed anyone. before and it made me feel like i was actually there. and I like katie’s too, it feels like the kids are a little younger, and it wasn’t very….in the book, but it was a very good. scene. Very. I am an experienced writer, but I’m not THAT good.

I know this is super late, but This is from a fantasy story I am writing about crossover souls (fairies mixed with humans). Isaac and Nyx are on the way to the hospital under a white lie because Nyx doesn’t want to expose her position (who she is) and Isaac just been possessed in the pier bookshop.

As we wound round the different streets we had been to at some point or had no idea of, towards the hospital, the summer sun high in the late afternoon sky, I took his hand stroking it softly. Then as if were the opposite poles of a magnet we leaned in our faces touching. I could smell the sweat of the day’s memory on him, but I didn’t care. I could smell the off brand washing powder his mother used, but I didn’t care. All I cared about was his warmth against mine, to feel his wind chapped lips on mine. It was the sweetest few seconds, before he pulled back.

‘I’m sorry, I…’ he continued to contemplate a stray cat for a few minutes before moving on to the seemingly mundane green bushes of number 12. He was doing his best to avoid the awkwardness of looking in to my eyes. There was an awkward silence between us where the seconds, felt like hours. In that silence I contemplated the moss grown crack in the pavement and the smell of dogs breath that clung to the sea air. Then I spoke, I said what I knew he felt.

‘It was long overdue’, I pulled his face to look at mine, our lips meeting once again. We kissed in quicks succession under the dabbled light of the plane tree. It was as we were drowning in the elixir of love, stopping only to inhale the cold sharp air of the sea.

‘I love you’ he spoke with such sincerity it almost took me by surprise.

‘I love you too’ I said our hands interlocking

‘Well maybe that’s enough medicine…’ I cut across him

‘You’re still going to the hospital and don’t you dare try to wriggle out of it’ I said in a mock stern voice.

he chuckled ‘That’s why I love you’

I have never kissed (romanticly ) anyone before, so it would be good to get feedback on the start of this scene. sorry if there are any spelling or gramHe chuckledmar mistakes. I guess because I am 15, it is sort of like teen fiction. But I haven’t really put it in any age box because they are not always correct or need.

OK, so I know I’m a little (a lot ) late but I just want to say, Katie, your kissing scene was phenomenal. You write like a pro. I was here earlier, so here is my scene revised.

“What are you doing?”, breathed Noah, shutting the door behind them, his mind racing. “You weren’t there yesterday”, Kieran whispered, his eyes unearthly, the sharp edges of his jawline highlighted by the moonlight from the window. “Why didn’t you meet me?”, he whispered, as he forced his knee between Noah’s legs, parting them. “What were you doing that was so much more important?” Noah thought of the day before, of Livia, of Alex. The whirlwind of events. The memories. He had forgotten all about Kieran. Before he could reply, Kieran kissed him with such force that he was slammed against the wall. Noah didn’t resist, couldn’t resist. The sweet smell of the boy he loved filled his nostrils, the scent calming his troubled mind, clearing it of all thoughts. He didn’t have time to think. Noah dragged him onto the bed, and they fell into each other, Kieran’s lips against his, tasting like peppermint and coffee and spices all rolled into one. All too soon, Kieran tore himself away and Noah could see how hard it was for him, like he was starving and he was putting aside the only piece of food he had. Noah shivered, breathless, as he realised how broad Kieran’s shoulders were. It was late and the exhaustion in Noah’s eyes must have begun to show because the other boy lay down beside him and whispered in his ear, “Shh, go to sleep”. Noah closed his eyes. And he had no nightmares.

Sorry, I forgot to explain. Before this scene, Noah is friends with Alex (a girl) who likes him and he is wondering how he can tell her that he doesn’t back. But what he doesn’t know is that she has already seen Kieran and him together. Noah usually has nightmares because he was in a war with Alex(that was when they met). Noah and Kieran break up later on but it seems sad to talk about that now when their relationship is gong so well. As far as you know….. obviously that isn’t the whole plot of the story, but the rest of it is demons and death and betrayal and blood and I’m sure you don’t want to hear any of that 0.o

Sorry if there are any spelling or grammar mistakes, and I know it’s late but I wanted to test out and see if this would work as a kiss that never happened or should have.

Maybe If they had been older and not seemed like brother and sister, this is when they would have kissed. I would be telling you about the warmth of his lips, about the pimple on the left side of his nose, the smell of conditioner and the way the seconds felt like hours . I would try to imagine, what it felt like to be lost in someone’s breath, but then I wonder if maybe all they would find would be an awkward silence. So in some ways I’m happy it never happened , at least not now. I’m happy he only whispered ‘I love you’ before he disappeared in to the silent street lit only by the orange sodium lamps, until they merged into the bright white LED light, that the council have started putting up. All along his words felt right because kissing might have ruined the bubble they had created. But they had never asked each other if they wanted the bubble to burst. He had never asked her if she wanted to find his heart beating on her Brest and his lips making lasting memories . Maybe all along she had needed to find the courage to ask him herself because it seemed they each in turn had felt there was no path to ponder on.

They had all-ways just excepted it wasn’t to be.

That is really cool, Iris! I love the way you describe the kiss how it would have been and how all the little details come together. Love. Just, love it.

Out of a sudden impulse of mine I moved my head right next to his while we were laying down and I kissed him. It was like a simple peck, in which he flinched and moved back. I got up swiftly and said in a panicky voice “Oh no I shouldn’t have done that, I-I’m sorry.” He got up and stared into my eyes intensely before grabbing my waist, pulling me in and pressing his firm lips against mine. In that moment it was like the world was still. It was just us against the world. The kiss became more intense as he started using his tongue as if claiming me he started moving his hand down to my lower back and continuing down. I felt as if this was right. He was the one, no doubt about it. I needed him; It didn’t matter if I chose him or Urca in that moment because it was just us. Us in this moment. We were the moment. I felt as though I would never need to come back up for air. I would drown in the deep unable to breathe for this kiss.

“We were the moment”. Love it.

woah this is truly amazin , every one of you have written so well, have put in you’re whole heart to it .I’m so happy as well as proud of y’all , kudos !! so I my writing is published on the platform Wattpad under the username : cursedsunshine. All my three books were well published last year , got so much hype but unfortunately someone hacked my account and I lost everything , but I didn’t stop there , writing gives me the freedom like no other .Hence I decided to go from the dust , it would mean a lot to me , if you are able to check out my story on Wattpad, thank you !

Just a side note, I have never kissed anyone or anything and this is my attempt at a kiss scene.

His breath is hot on my neck and I can feel a bulge pressed on my lower back. “What do you want me to do?” He whispers in my ear. Tingles shoot through my body from hearing those words.

“I want you to show me you love me,” I say breathily.

His hands snake around my lower back to my stomach slightly pulling me closer. Soft kisses trail up my neck as he turns me around planting a passionate kiss on my lips.

Our lips move in unison changing from passionate to fiery lust. My hands touch his face bringing him closer to me deepening the kiss. He pulls away breathing heavily looking into my eyes.

“Let’s go to the bedroom.” He says with a husky voice.

In one smooth sweep, I am carried into the air. We share teasing kisses as he walks slowly to the room. Sitting on the bed I straddle him, he grins before flipping me over with him on top. With a look in his eyes for approval, I nod. He kisses from my neck to between my breasts to my stomach then stops to look at me. He kisses lower and lower teasing my hot skin before opening my legs…

*BEEP* *BEEP* *BEEP*

My hand shoots up to turn off the alarm on my phone while a loud groan escapes my mouth. God, my alarm couldn’t have waited a few more minutes. Nick hasn’t been on my mind for a while, that was a nice dream that I wish continued. I open one eye at a time adjusting to my bright room, curtains are next on the list of things to buy. With a stretch, I push my covers off and sit to get out of bed. If you are interested in reading the rest of the story, here is the link to it: https://booknet.com/en/book/outstanding-b144301 The story is free to read. 😛

I just recently turned 15 and I’m curious as to what different skill paths I should take to better my schooling and personal life. I’m not very confident in my writing skill, personally I think I’m not that good and what I write is a bit choppy, if I could get some feedback I’d be really appreciative (AKA I crave validation so feed me peasants). Also I changed the names of people so I don’t get killed. Tyler and Brandon it is.

“Never Tyler. Never ever. You’re amazing, and so strong. You hold all this pain in and still get up each day and push forward. I’m so inspired by you and how you are able to hold your head up from the water and get through each and every minute. You’re incredible, truely. I wish I had been there earlier, maybe then I could have helped you through everything thing you’ve been through, and I’m sorry that I wasn’t. But I’m here now and i’m not letting you go, even if you scream and push me away, I need you to know that I’ll always be here. I want to see you happy. I want to make you as happy as you make me and Ty… you make me really, really happy.” Brandon smiled, grip tightening around Tyler’s neck as he stared into the taller boy’s eyes.

Tyler’s brain short-circuited as he started into the pale blue of Brandon’s eyes, watching as the boy’s eyes shifted towards his own, pupils growing and flush rising up his cheeks. He slowly lifted his hand so it was resting on the side of Brandon’s jaw, rubbing his cheek delicately as the world around them slowed, freezing until it was just the two of them. Nothing else mattered in that moment as they stared into each other’s souls, their hearts. No words were spoken and yet, everything had been said. If any moment in his life had anchored his soul, Tyler was sure it would be this very second, gazing into the innocent and yet so devious eyes of the boy before him. He could all but feel his heart crumbling and falling into the hands of the other, every thought, every emotion that ran through his mind like a plague was now in the hands of the only person he would ever expect them to fall into. Because of course, who else to let himself be vulnerable with then this boy? How could he not trust him with his whole being? Tyler glanced down, watching as the boy licked his lips subconsciously. Raising his gaze once again he looked to Brandon for permission, letting out a harsh breath, he questioned.

“Angel, if it’s okay with you, I’d really like to kiss you right now. May I?” The brunette spoke, tongue darting out over his own lips in anticipation as he sat, one hand on Brandon’s cheek and the other resting softly against his hip. “Please Ty.” The boy all but whispered in return, gripping slightly higher at Tyler’s hair from under the taller boy’s beanie. Tyler smiled slightly at the feeling of it, leaning in to let his lips just barely graze the other boy’s.

It was Brandon that closed the gap between them, fingers locking into place in Tyler’s hair as he pushed his lips against the older boy’s. Tyler felt like an addict, Brandon slowly becoming his drug. The smaller’s lips just felt so soft and plush against his own cracked and dry ones, creating a contrast that Tyler never expected to feel, but now that he had gotten a taste, he couldn’t get enough of it. In one swift movement the two of them became one, they clung to each other as if they were the only other thing in this world, and in a way, Tyler supposed they were. Brandon gripped him tighter, pulled him closer like he was the only solid being in a spinning world and Tyler in turn, let both his hands fall over the younger’s curves and onto the dancer’s waist, fearing that one wrong move would leave everything around them shattering to pieces. Both the boy’s took their time, holding onto one another and allowing themselves to fall into a rhythm. Breathing the other in like they had been deprived of air their whole lives, it was sweet, it was soft, and it was their’s. Their moment to forever hold and cherish. Their’s to dream of and smile at. Tyler felt as though nothing could ruin this. This was special, a moment that he would forever hold close to his heart. Just him and Brandon.

Late as all hell, and while I’ve been kissed, I haven’t done it enough to capture it well. I’m also writing this from a man’s perspective, instead of a woman’s, so I worry I’m doing it wrong…if there’s feedback, that would be lovely! Otherwise, feel free to make fun of my shoddy work, haha! (Please note, this is a fantasy/sci-fi narrative, with a mention of a fictional language in it!)

Could he tell her? Yes, he could. Should he was perhaps the question he was asking. His mind floundered for a single, logical thought. Find the pros and cons, weigh the outcomes, that was what he was supposed to be doing, but his brain had faded into a sluggish mush. He could recognize nothing but her hair, dotted with tiny jeweled snowflakes; her eyes, that held far too much softness for someone who was so unpredictable; her hands, trembling against his face.

Thantil took them, folding them within his. Her skin remained soft, even in the cold. He had seen how other’s hands had cracked, the flesh scuffed like rocks. Hers did not feel that way. It made him wonder, not for the first time, if she held some sort of magic within her. Surely she did. She had enchanted him in a way he had never thought possible.

He held her gaze, waiting for her to say no. It never came. Not when he pulled her closer to him. Not when he lifted her hands. Not even when his lips brushed over her knuckles. He watched her eyes close, her lips part –

“Nor ver ch’ah, vah bta rect’tin’ecot,” she mumbled.

Just kiss me.

He let go of her hands, yanked her forward, and did just that. Damn feeling, damn passion, it damned him to the thousandth depth of hell as yet another piece of the man he was meant to be crumbled into the vast ocean that was her.

Wow! All of your scenes are amazing! You are all really talented! Here’s one that’s a part of the novel I’m writing. But before that, I guess I should give some background. Basically, the story’s about the best track & field team in the state. Two of the best runners – Asa and Whitney – are pretty good at annoying the hell out of each other, but they’ve always kinda liked eachother. During an away meet against their team’s rival school, Whitney hides in the bathrooms for a couple minutes to get away from Asa, but he’s sent to look for her. They end up talking a couple things out and eventually kissing – and Whitney misses her event. Then Joseph, their coach, walks in on them Despite the trouble they’re already in…well, I mean, I’m not gonna spoil anything, so here’s the scene:

*CVHS = cade valley high school, that’s the team*

Surprisingly, we weren’t banned from sitting together on the bus. Joseph was at the very front, and instead of my usual seat with Laurel and Ashlyn, I sat in the very back with Asa. Luckily, I had the window seat. His arms were wrapped around me and I was holding both of his hands, a position I never expected to feel so comfortable. I looked up at him and we both smiled – just a little. I put my head on his shoulder and glanced out the window from the corner of my eye. I watched as we passed cars and trucks and houses, nothing I’d never seen. As soon as we pulled into CVHS, Asa and I got off the bus along with everyone else. But instead of walking me to my own car, he pulled me to his. Still wrapped up in each other, we slid into the backseat, and before we could bother to close the door, his mouth was on mine. It was dark outside, so it was likely that people could see us due to the lights that turned on in Asa’s car. But it didn’t matter, nothing mattered. Soon, he was on top of me and I was sinking into the leather car seats. I didn’t know where Joseph was or if he’d yell at us, but neither of us seemed to care. For a moment, Asa pulled away and muttered; “God, why did I wait so long to do this?” I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him back down to me. We pressed our foreheads together and I whispered “I don’t know” softly. I pressed my lips against his and ran my fingers through his thick hair. He lightly brushed his finger across my cheek, sending a tremor through my body. I didn’t care what the first or next person to see us thought, so what if I was kind of, sort of, definitely kissing my sarcastic and admittedly hot ex-enemy? Our lips separated and Asa got off of me, giving me room to sit up. I glanced at him, only to find that he was staring at me, smiling. “What?” I asked. “All this time spent annoying the shit out of you and I never took the time to notice that you’re really pretty,” he answered. I laughed weakly. I wanted to say I never thought you were capable of making me feel this way, but instead, I managed a quiet “thanks.” “I- th-this is crazy, I-I-I never thought-” he shook his head. “Never mind.” I’d never heard Asa stutter before. I laughed softly and kissed his lips. When I pulled away, he slid out of the open car and I followed. Then, in one swift motion, he pushed me against the side of the car and kissed me harder than the last time. Much harder. From there, everything went from affectionate to aggressive. Passionate to something more than lustful. Sweet and harmless to addicting and intoxicating. We were under some sort of trance, and I couldn’t breathe. Then, right there in the school parking lot, he pulled off his sweatshirt and then his jersey, tossing them both into the open car. It probably wasn’t the best idea to get this intimate considering our current location, but I was too caught up in the pleasurable pain Asa was inflicting on me. I felt like I could barely keep my footing, and if it weren’t for his grip on me, I’d be on the ground by now. He made his way down to my neck, placing rough kisses as he went. Breathing heavily, I felt his boner that I somehow hadn’t noticed digging into my leg, which only aroused me further. I lightly ran my thumb over his rough lips, and that made him grab my wrists and kiss me again. Suddenly, he let go of me and tugged at my jersey. Again, my mind went straight to the fact that we were in the school parking lot and anyone could be watching, but I removed it anyway. Asa closed every inch of space between us by wrapping his muscular arms around me and kissing me with an open mouth. We were skin-to-skin, and it felt good. Asa slid his hand into my bra, and for some reason I let him. We both slipped our tongues into each other’s mouths, and when they touched, it made me tingle all over. He tasted like spearmint gum and the red Gatorade I’d seen him drinking during the 4×4 relay. It wasn’t the best combination, but I still wanted more. I hoped I tasted alright. After all, I’d pounded popcorn and Kit-Kats after Joseph told me I wouldn’t be running my next event. Speak of the devil, Joseph’s car rolled right past us. I wouldn’t have noticed if it weren’t for him shouting, “What the hell? Asa, put a shirt on! Who’s that – Whitney? Wait, come on. Seriously, you two?” Both of us turned and stared in shock like a deer in headlights. “Honestly. Again? I JUST talked to you about this. Not okay.” Joseph shouted. “If you can’t keep your hands off each other, I’m going to have to separate you and kick one of you off the team. Or both of you. I don’t care.” “I- Joseph, Asa is one of our fastest runners.” I managed. “You can’t kick him off the team.” “You can’t kick Whitney off either. If we’re going to win fucking state again this year, then you’ll need both of us.” Asa added. Joseph shrugged. “We have others. And watch your language, Byers. AND I believe I told you to put a shirt on. You too, Whitney.” I picked my jersey up off the ground and slipped it over my head while Asa pulled his sweatshirt out of the car. “Are you happy now?” Asa snapped. “Watch your tone,” I warned him in a whisper. “We’re already at risk of being kicked off.” Asa shook his head. “See you at practice, Joseph,” he groaned, and started to walk away. “Nice try,” Joseph stopped him, “I’m suspending you from the team. Either you or Whitney.”

So there we go. It was obviously a little more than they both expected, but it turned out badly again. What do you guys think?

Okay, so it’s not exactly the ✨big kiss✨ but it’s the first kiss that doesn’t count, if you will. But it triggers a lot of contemplation later in the story.

I stood, hands on the rails of the fence, waiting for him. He’d told me over text he had a note to deliver to me. Why he couldn’t just text me the contents of the note, I wasn’t sure. Eventually, I felt a tap on my shoulder. “It’s me.” I easily recognized Aiden’s voice. My eyes traveled to his hand, balled up into a fist. The note. I expected him to hand it to me, but he didn’t. He grabbed my shoulder, pulled me up to him, and pressed his lips against mine. I knew it was just a coverup. Something to hide the exchange. I could tell by his hand slipping into my back pocket, shoving the crumpled note in there. It was only a coverup. But out of all the coverups, he kissed me. But then, he pulled away and slowly removed his hand from my pocket, careful not to make the note visible to the public. Aiden gave me a small nod as he walked away and I did the same, but walked in the opposite direction. The whole way down the trail, the note burned a hole in my pocket and the thought of our kiss burned a hole in my head. I told myself it didn’t count as a kiss, not a meaningful one. The kiss didn’t count. And that was the way it would be.

SoOoOoOo…whatcha think?

I have been writing Christian stories since I learned the alphabet. This is an excerpt from an old story I dug up when going through my computer. I was young, so not sure if this is any good, but let me know! Back story: The girl, (Corsorvia Blanche, AKA Page) and her crush who hasn’t spoken to her in months (Job Morgan) have been magically transported to the world of Obathia to help the creatures of the 7 Realms be freed from the eternal winter. Page thinks it’s just for them, but in reality, it’s drawing her closer to Elohim…and to Job. In this scene, they just escaped near death from Cloakers (tractor-sized wolves) and are continuing on their way through the barren, frigid wasteland of Obathia. The title of the book is ‘Edge of Obathia’ so this is the very last page and a half of the book. Everything inside of the *stars* is Elohim speaking to Page’s heart and mind, calming her fears. Anything in caps is what her fear is telling her. Let me know your thoughts, thanks! God bless!

“Do you remember snow days in England?” I laughed. “We would be so excited each morning it would snow, and the night before we would be fervently praying for snow. Now…oh well, now all that excitement is bloody gone.” “Ah, yes.” Job sighed. “This trip has certainly changed many things for us.” I smiled as I thought of the serene calm flowing through me. Yes, I knew there’d be danger ahead. Yes, I knew there’d be peril. But I was not afraid. I had the love of Elohim in me. *The Lord is your light and salvation—so why should you be afraid? The Lord is your fortress, protecting you from danger, so why should you tremble? I have loved you and protected you all the way, Corsorvia. I will love you and protect you the rest of the way, too.* I heard the small voice in my mind, never anything but a peaceful whisper. Meanwhile, the voice of fear always shouted in my mind. I CAN’T DO THIS. CLOAKERS WILL ATTACK ME, OR I’LL FALL IN ANOTHER LAKE AND SURELY DROWN THIS TIME! I CAN’T DO THIS! I CAN’T DO THIS!!! Still the whispering voice came like a soothing blanket. *Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. Do not fear them, for the Lord your God is the one fighting for you. The Lord will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you. They shall come out against you one way and flee before you seven ways. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but mine. Lay your burdens down with me! and I will take care of you. I will not permit the godly to slip and fall.* Tears came to my eyes as I answered Job quietly, “Yes. Yes they have.” He slipped his hand into mine and squeezed it. He knew what I was hearing. He had heard it many times, too. “What has changed for you?” I asked him, swiping at my eyes. He let out a heavy breath. “I’ve only just begun to see the way Elohim sees; even though I took this journey years upon years ago.” He seemed to pause before adding, “I’ve also realized that those I love are always closest to me, no matter where I am.” This stopped all the voices I was hearing and almost stopped me. I tried not to hope for what that meant, but what could I do to help it? I kept walking, and tripped over nothing. “Woah!” He said, leaning over and offering me his hand. “Are you alright?” My face went red. “Yes.” I helped myself up, brushing snow off my parka. “Not sure what caused that.” Job grinned, raising an eyebrow. “I might.” I set my hands on my hips and glared at him. “You wish.” “I won’t deny it.” His answer caught me off guard and I tried not to show it. “Let’s not get cheeky.” “You say cheeky, I say honest.” The look on his face was sincere. I could only hope my own expression portrayed calm. My heart was beating wildly fast. “Ellie May interrupted me, and I intend to finish what I started.” He took a step closer. My mouth fell slightly open as I whispered his name. I didn’t get to finish my sentence before his strong hands were gently holding my neck, his lips pressed against mine. We were kissing. I was kissing Job. JOB was kissing ME. I had wanted to for years. It felt perfect, as if we were made for this moment. The moment his lips touched mine, my brain very nearly exploded and the air was smashed out of my lungs. My knees were weak and my hands trembled. All my senses seemed elevated, but I could barely think. To stop my hands from trembling, I slid them up his head and tangled my fingers in his long hair. He slid his foot forward just half a step, tilting his head. I took in a shaky breath through my nose and leaned into him. He assaulted my senses; the taste and smell of him closer to me than ever before left me wanting more and more. His caress on my neck was gentle but his kisses were rough and unapologetic, showing he had wanted this for a while. And so had I. My knees were about to give and I clung to him for dear life. Sheer delight shot through me as his hands glided down my body to the small of my back, then to my hips, sending shivers down my spine. The world (if there was one, because it seemed like only he and I existed as we stood there kissing for what felt like an eternity) was spinning around me like the tumbling cycle on a dryer. But his strong arms wrapped around my waist and held me tightly. I knew he wouldn’t let me fall. I nodded my head, deepening the kiss, showing him how much I needed him. He responded with a soft groan at the back of his throat. He drew me closer. Minutes later, he slowly pulled away as the sound of rushing water suddenly became known to us. I had been so caught up in the kiss I hadn’t heard the roar of the waterfall we both turned to look at. I held him a little tighter, staring at the monstrous outpour of icy water. “J-job…” I whispered. For some reason, it felt dangerous to speak at normal volume. “Where are we?” He looked at the waterfall like it was much more than it was. He replied in the same soft tone I had used. “We made it to our first benchmark, Page.” He swallowed. “We’ve reached the edge of Obathia.”

I’m a young writer and I’ve never been kissed. This is my first attempt at writing a kissing scene and I wanted to know what some other people think that aren’t my friends lol

I slowly walked to the doors and placed my sweaty palm on the doorknob, turned it, and pulled it open aggressively. When it swung open I saw Flynn standing there with his hand up like he was about to knock. We stared at each other for what seemed like hours. Neither one of us was sure what to say. He came in and closed the door behind him, slowly. I noticed him taking turns between looking me in the eyes and looking at my lips. “Hi-” I started to say something but when I blinked something made contact with my lips. I opened my eyes wide and saw Flynn, his eyes closed and relaxed like we were a married couple that has been doing this for years. All at once, it was like I was feeling, tasting, and seeing every color of the rainbow at the same time. My heart skipped a beat, and my hands got hot and sweaty. My emotions were so tangled, no comb could straighten them. He wrapped his strong arms around my waist and rested them on my hips. The kiss had enough power to force Flynn’s back up against the closed door. We stood with our bodies forced together against it as our lips were pressed into one. He pulled away from me and I stood with my hands relaxing on his chest. I stared into his deep brown eyes and he stared back, lovingly. He leaned his head down and kissed me again. This time, his lips didn’t separate from mine for a long time. They were warm and soft. I tangled my hands into his silky smooth ginger hair. When I pulled back for air, he smiled. No one said anything, but nothing needed to be said. I just hoped it wasn’t just a dream. Without moving off of him, he searched for the doorknob with his free hand. I untangled one of my hands from his hair and placed it on his. “I’ll let you know,” I whispered. He picked me up and carried me to my bed. When he gently threw me down, we sat next to each other. Just like I had hoped, he kissed me once again, stopping repeatedly for gasps of air. I felt him grab my knee like he needed help not falling over. He pressed his lips against mine with a fiery passion. I felt like I was in a Disney movie. I felt alive again. Like my parents still had their apartment, and my grandpa was still alive. This was my home, next to Flynn. The last thing I remember was combing my hand through his soft hair and him whispering to me: “I love you,”

Quote: This helps allow the reader to experience the shock of an unexpected peck.

A peck? A measly PECK? You read something of this caliber and that’s how you describe it?

A little further along, quote: Who would of expected that…

“would HAVE” — and this, on a website purporting to dispense advice?

Please don’t judge!

Jayla grabs my hand. I turn to her, eyebrows raised.

“What?” I ask. She flinches.

“I… Kagen… I… really like you.” She holds her breath, eyes not daring to meet mine. I straighten, and she takes my silence as a bad thing. Jayla shrinks away, shaking her head. I put out my hand to stop her from leaving.

“You like me?” It’s the only thing I can think to say. My mind is buzzing with thoughts. Then a small smile curls the corners of my lips up. I lift her chin with my finger, and pull her face towards mine. Our lips connect, hers warm and soft. I move my hand behind her neck and pull her closer, deepening the kiss. She places her hand in my hair, curling her fingers into it so she sends shivers racing down my spine. We brake away too soon. Her cheeks are rosy and her eyes are shining. I want to say something, but my mind is blank. Then, with a small smile, she scurries of.

I’m trying to write a romantic book where a couple struggle to survive because of an abhorrent war. How does this paragraph sound?

As Peter approached Layla, Layla began to shy away. “It’s ok.” Peter reassured. Layla stepped out of the shadows, and held Peter’s hand tightly. “Are you sure they’re gone?” Layla asked, searching the dark alley. “Yes,” Peter replied. “I’m sure.” Layla sighed. She laid her hand on Peter’s face, and then hugged him. “Thank you,” she said, motioning for a kiss. She placed her hand gently on Peter’s face, and then brought his face close to her’s. Then, she reached in for a kiss. Her pale, swollen lips gently brushed against Peter’s lips. Then, Layla nudged her lips closer to Peter until they finally kissed. People gathered around and cheered. The sky cleared away the thick layer of smoke. The war was finally over.

I’m trying to become a writer but have never been kissed before, so bear with me!

The world awakened as I wondered, staring as she flew, bounding through the forest like a doe. Her hands were flown out beside her as she danced through the rain, smiling at me through her sorrow. “Parch! Come here,” she beckoned, twirling around as she laughed. I slowly approached her, smiling unsurely as I stumbled about. “How can you be still while the world is so alive?” she cried, taking my hand and spinning me about. I hesitated, why, still today I do not know. She frowned, releasing me. “How can it be that you still are embarrassed with me?” I shook my head. “I’m not embarrassed, I’m just-“ “Then dance!” she laughed, shaking her head full of shiny wet hair. I sighed. What was I truly afraid of? Hurting my pride? She was right, I was a cowardly thing. But I wanted to please her, I guess that’s why I did it. I began to dance, twirling and spinning with her, my arms stretched wide as I began to sing. I was there, with her, and I would remember that moment for the rest of my days. In my mindlessness I stumbled, falling to the wet leaves of autumn. “Parch!” she shrieked, appearing at my side. “I’m ok-“ I started, before she lay down next to me. “Look at the sky,” she sighed, stretching her hands out as though if she tried hard enough she could grab the clouds and weave them into some beautiful dress. She then grabbed my hand. “Parch, you are unlike any boy I have ever met.“ Her eyes met mine. “ What do you mean?” I slipped my hand out of her’s, propping myself up under my elbow. “You, my friend, are afraid of me.” She laughed once more, sitting up herself. “A-afraid?” I sputtered, bilking out the rain. “Yes! You are. Or at least, if falling in love. Or perhaps to lose someone again.” “Again?” I looked at her. “Yes. Yes, I believe that is why you haven’t let down your guard. You are scared of accepting me, only to lose me. And suddenly I knew she was right. “But I won’t let you go, Parch Grant. I will keep you if you keep me.” And I knew she would. I nodded. She leaned into me, her breath sweet as the falling autumn rain. I squeezed my eyes shut, holding my breath. I didn’t know what this would bring, what this would mean- and then she kissed me. Her lips brought forth a marvelous firework of protection, of care. Her hand held my face as I relaxed, kissing her back. And the we broke apart, held by that moment until the end of all time.

This is my first attempt at a kissing scene. I’d love to know someone else’s feedback on it!

An arm strong and gentle stole about Katelyn’s waist, pulling her towards him. Liam’s hands gently grabbed her slender waist. She fit perfectly in his arms. The warmth of his touch drew her closer. So close she could feel his soft breath against her cheek. His eyes were a magnet the desire in his eyes drawing her towards him. Liam’s fingers brushed her cheek. She flinched at his touch. For an instant, he hesitated, afraid that she might pull away. Then, leaning towards him, she surrendered herself to him. His eyes searched her face in a questioning gaze. Her expression held no reserve or hesitancy, only perfect trust, and tender love. As Liam pulled her close, her hands slid up his chest around his neck. A shy, gentle touch. His gaze traveled to her lips. He glanced into her eyes, silently asking permission. She nodded. Tender and affectionate, his hand caressed her cheek. Willing herself to stop trembling, she leaned into him. Slipping his hand under her chin, Liam drew her lips towards his. She yielded to his touch as if the whole world melted away in the embrace of his arms. His lips brushed hers. The touch was hesitant. A tremor ran through her body. The rush of warmth surged through her, drawing every sense towards him in that impassioned moment. She pressed her mouth to his, the sensation of his lips against hers assaulting her senses. His left hand glided up from her waist to the small of her back, pressing her body to him. Liam held her in his arms, willing the moment to go on forever. He felt her longing, reserve, and passion, melt away in the safety of his arms. He drew back, their lips parting, but he didn’t let go of the delicate frame. Her heart beat against his chest. She was his. So small, so weak. And in that moment he swore to protect her from every pain and heartbreak he could keep her from. He would love this girl for eternity. Brushing back her hair, he kissed her forehead and whispered to the angel he held in his arms, “I love you.” He spoke in low, tender tones, his eyes saying far more than his words. Katelyn’s voice was soft but unhesitating. “I love you too, Liam,” she murmured shyly.

Listen, I love your insight. And it’s right. Yes! It really is. The stages are okay. It’s just that the examples used have to be the most boring kissing scenes.

They focus more on before and after the kiss instead of emotions during the kiss. Which I find a bit boring.

Maybe it’s not the vibe I’m looking for.

The first kissing scene is like, yes a surprise but, it’s as if a fish out of water (literally). those tongues flip and they flop and they wiggle. GHAADD!

The next kiss is like the character couldn’t wait to get it over with then buttered it up with a bunch of nice words. Like how you’d describe a nice soup that you’re not really in the mood to have.

But personally, I did like the stages you put out. It makes writing more of a science but it does give some more insight. So thank you.

I am a young author and I am writing hate-to-love romance for the first time. I would love a few tips on this scene. The setting is that they are lying side by side on a bed while Ethan reads a book to Skye.

Please, i’d like your comments on this.

Suddenly he became very aware of their position, there on the bed, under the sheets. Ethan’s gaze slid to Skye, who looked back. ‘Only … Only if you want it,’ he said uncertainly. ‘Kissing a prince is not on my to-do list, mind you,’ she replied flatly. Ethan blushed violently and turned away from her, holding the book in front of his face as best he could. ‘Did I embarrass you now?’ said Skye. ‘You’re mean,’ he said. He swatted at her with the book before hiding behind it again. She laughed softly. ‘Well, kissing a prince may not be on my to-do list, but…’ Ethan’s heart skipped a few beats as she pushed his book down. The lump in his throat widened as Skye’s face came closer. He stiffened completely and didn’t dare move a fin, afraid of doing something wrong and thus breaking the magic of the moment. He knew nothing more and then just waited, completely overwhelmed. ‘Only if you want,’ she whispered, her lips even more a few millimeters from his. He felt her warm breath brush past him and get lost in the storms of her eyes. Of course he wanted it, with all his body and all his heart. But his yes came out in the form of a choked squeak, since his throat was completely constricted. She smiled and leaned in even further. Ethan’s heart thudded against his ribs and his head exploded. Skye’s mouth was surprisingly soft. She smelled of the crisp night air and the stars, if that made any sense. Electric shocks slid down his spine, obscuring his thoughts. The one, scattered particle of his brain that still made an attempt to work told him to do something. Ethan flung the book away, wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her to him, answering the kiss passionately. Skye put her hands flat against his chest and pushed him down on the bed. He gasped against her lips, displacing all thoughts, and let his hand slide into her raven-black hair. He tilted his head and deepened the kiss. Their surroundings became a blur until only Skye was there, the girl he loved. She tugged at the hem of his shirt, whereupon he sat up straight for a moment to pull it off, catching his breath in the process. As soon as he had it off Skye kissed him again. He let himself fall back into the sheets. It all happened naturally, as if it was meant to be. It wasn’t hard to believe that, either. His hands slid to her vest and unbuttoned it. He couldn’t care less about the consequences. It made them feel good to be able to be bad. He had jumped off the cliff. All he could do now was hope there was a safety net.

Terrific article, and very interesting comments. A very important thing is missing, though. Consent. It’s so important (and sexy!) to ask for permission to touch another person. I’m not sure why it’s left out here – maybe because the examples are from older novels – but there are so many reasons why touching another person without their permission can harm them. If we want to see more compassion, respect, and healthy sexual relationships in the world, we as authors, need to model them. It doesn’t “kill the mood” to ask to touch or kiss or anything else – harming someone with your touch kills the mood far worse.

Thank you for the tip! I will see what i can do

Sorry if this is even worse. I am a bit nervous when writing stuff like this and most of the time i just hope its not stupid or childish. But anyway, here is the fixed version of it. I hope it is better.

Suddenly he became very aware of their position, there on the bed, under the sheets. Ethan’s gaze slid to Skye, who looked back. ‘Only … Only if you want it,’ he said uncertainly. ‘Kissing a prince is not on my to-do list, mind you,’ she replied flatly. Ethan blushed violently and turned away from her, holding the book in front of his face as best he could. ‘Have I embarrassed you now?’ said Skye. ‘You’re mean,’ he said. He swatted at her with the book before hiding behind it again. She laughed softly. ‘Well, kissing a prince may not be on my to-do list, but…’ Ethan’s heart skipped a few beats as she pushed his book down. The lump in his throat widened as Skye’s face came closer. He stiffened completely and didn’t dare move a fin, afraid of doing something wrong and thus breaking the magic of the moment. He knew nothing more and then just waited, completely overwhelmed. ‘Only if you want,’ she whispered, her lips even more a few millimeters from his. He felt her warm breath brush past him and get lost in the storms of her eyes. Of course he wanted it, with all his body and all his heart. But his yes came out in the form of a choked squeak, since his throat was completely constricted. She smiled and leaned in even further. Ethan’s heart thudded against his ribs and his head exploded. Skye’s mouth was surprisingly soft. She smelled of the crisp night air and the stars, if that made any sense. Electric shocks slid down his spine, obscuring his thoughts. The one, scattered particle of his brain that still made an attempt to work told him to do something. Ethan flung the book away, wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her to him, answering the kiss passionately. Skye put her hands flat against his chest and pushed him down on the bed. He gasped against her lips, displacing all thoughts, and let his hand slide into her raven-black hair. He tilted his head and deepened the kiss. Their surroundings became a blur until only Skye was there. Suddenly she pulled back. She looked at him breathlessly, and for a moment he had no idea of time or place. ‘Is … Sorry, I’m too quick.’ She wanted to scribble straight already. ‘No, it’s okay,’ he said, before he knew it. She stiffened. ‘Seriously? ‘I wouldn’t say it otherwise,’ he smiled. He had never seen her so shy. ‘I-I’ve just never really done this before-you know…’ “Do you trust me? She hesitated for a moment, but then nodded. He realized how hard this had to be, after Leo and all the things that had happened. He let his hand slide down her neck and kissed her again, but more quietly, more calmly. He felt her relax. He leaned back a little. “Sure? I understand if you’re…’ ‘Yes, yes I’m sure.’ ‘Okay.’ She tugged at the hem of his shirt, whereupon he sat up straight for a moment to take it off, catching his breath in the meantime. As soon as he had it off Skye kissed him again. He let himself fall back into the sheets. It all happened naturally, as if it was meant to be. It wasn’t hard to believe that, either. His hands slid to her vest and unbuttoned it. He couldn’t care less about the consequences. It made them feel good to be able to be bad. He had jumped off the cliff. All he could do now was hope there was a safety net.

Your examples suck, two were about underage characters, one involved way too much tongue propaganda, and the others were just boring to read. Maybe next time try reading a book by a woman and not an incel from the 1920s.

Every writer NEEDS this book.

It’s a guide to writing the pivotal moments of your novel.

Whether writing your book or revising it, this will be the most helpful book you’ll ever buy.

Learn how to:

Nail chapter endings
Surprise your reader with plot twists
Describe a character for the first time
Write a killer ending

BRYN DONOVAN

tell your stories, love your life

Writing Inspiration
Semi-Charmed Life
Reading & Research
Works In Progress.

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

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COMMENTS

Master List of Facial Expressions
However, it's easy for us to rely on the same descriptions over and over again. And sometimes in the middle of writing, when we're trying to find the words to describe an angry expression or a sad expression, we draw a blank. The expressions are broken down by the part of the face.
How to Describe a Smile in Writing (700 Ways & Examples)
A passionate smile can reveal strong emotions, a burning desire, or a deep love. It can be used to show the intensity of your character's feelings and create an emotionally charged moment. Words: Fiery, Intense, Aflame, Burning, Feverish, Ardent, Zealous, Fervent, Eager, Enthusiastic. Examples:
600+ Words to Describe Smiles: A Word List for Writers
smirk: a smug, conceited, or silly smile. sneer: a contemptuous, mocking, or unpleasant smile. More nouns that can replace smile include: A to S amused expression, amused look, arched lips, curl of the lip, dimpling of the face, leer, snigger. Props. See 600+ Ways to Describe Lips and Mouths for dozens of props that would be suitable for smiles.
Describing Smiles
A slow smile playing on her lips. A triumphant smile. Her smile falter slightly. I give him a thin smile. A smirk plays around the edges of his mouth. The faintest smile flits across his mouth. She gives him a sickly smile - ill, in poor health. Demure smile. She saw the shadow of a smile play across her lips.
Alternative Ways to Describe Character Reactions
Just having her tense would feel weak. 4. Take the character into consideration. People react differently to things, and you can use that to maintain variety in your descriptions. Maybe someone is very physical and notices how their body reacts, while another is more cerebral and thinks through their emotions.
Describing a Smile in Writing: A Guide with Creative Examples
Whether it's a subtle smirk or a wide grin, the right words can paint a vivid picture in the reader's mind. In this section, we'll explore two techniques that can be used to describe a smile in writing: similes and metaphors, and creating context with descriptions. Using Similes and Metaphors
Smirk
By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, March 21, 2021 . Your smirk ticks every box. It's gorgeous. You're gorgeous. By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, March 21, 2021 . If there was a world leader board of smirkers, you'd be champion. By Angela Abraham, @daisydescriptionari, March 21, 2021 . Ian was always all about business; deadlines ...
Using Body Language in Your Novel, Part One—Facial Expressions
Described as extending your chin in front of you. Use it to indicate your character is being arrogant, inflexible, or stubborn. This can also be used to describe someone who feels superior to the other characters. * Neck. The way you describe your character holding his neck can indicate anxiety or confidence.
Writing Emotion: Does Your Hero Shrug, Smile & Frown Too Much?
Crutch gestures can sometimes get in the way of good writing. They come in all shapes and sizes-maybe an eye roll, a clenched stomach, curled fists or shrugs-cues we writers tend to overuse while trying to convey what our character is feeling. Coming up with fresh emotional description is tough. Some writers rely heavily on the face to show ...
Emotion: SMUGNESS
Deliberately raised eyebrows. Cocking or tilting the head. A smirk or sneer. Direct, probing eye contact. Squinting and a hard smile. A dismissive nod or glance. Rolling the eyes. Aggressive teasing intended to put another in their place. A sigh conveying annoyance (a huff)
Physical Attributes Entry: Lips
Things Lips Do(and other words/phrases to describe those actions) Smile: grin, smirk, simper, sneer, twist, upturn, lift. Frown: grimace, moue, scowl, pout. Kiss: smooch, smack, peck, graze, caress, skim, tickle, flick, brush. Key Emotions and Related Lip Gestures: People mess with their lips quite a bit. When nervous or uncertain, it's ...
400+ Ways to Exploit Facial Expressions in Writing
Each category heading is followed by several ways a character could show the mentioned emotion (s). Agony, pain, suffering. - prominent lines between the eyebrows. - gaze directed downward. - raised lips. - raised cheeks. - eyes squeezed shut. - wrinkled nose. - bared teeth.
Top 30 Adjectives for Smirk (Negative & Positive Words)
A smirk, a simple facial expression, can convey myriad emotions. Whether endearing or exasperating, the words we use to describe a smirk matter. Dive into our comprehensive list! Description of Smirk A smirk is a half-smile indicating smugness, self-satisfaction, or a concealed amusement, often perceived as irritating or insincere by others. Words to Describe Smirk ... <a title="Top 30 ...
600+ Ways to Describe Lips, Mouths: A Word List for Writers
600+ Ways to Describe Lips, Mouths: A Word List for Writers. (Discover even more words in The Writer's Body Lexicon .) First Impressions. Your first mental image when thinking about lips or mouths might be a passionate kiss. Percy Bysshe Shelley said, "Soul meets soul on lovers' lips.". However, lips and mouths are more than kissing (or ...
Your Character's Smirking...or Is He? Synonym Pitfalls
Melinda, I agree with Karen. Your image portraying a smirk is ideal. However, just before I sent off my Google+ promo, I noticed it said emphatically. "This is a smirk!" and it showed your photo. LOL! It gave me a chance to add to your post - "This author's smile is NOT a smirk. If you want to see a true one, follow the link."
Describing Smells in Writing: Mastering the Art of ...
The art of describing smells in writing can elevate your work to an immersive experience for readers. The human sense of smell is closely linked to memory, making it a powerful tool for writers to evoke emotions and transport readers into the world they've created. Capturing the essence of a scent in words can be challenging, but with a ...
Describing Sadness in Creative Writing: 33 Ways to ...
Instead, try using more descriptive words that evoke a sense of sadness in the reader. For example, you could use words like "heartbroken," "bereft," "devastated," "despondent," or "forlorn.". These words help to create a more vivid and emotional description of sadness that readers can connect with.
How to Describe a Smile in Different Ways
How to describe a smile might have you stumped, but not for long. Discover different ways you can describe a smile with our list to elevate your writing. ... Whether you're describing a fictional character or writing a piece of creative nonfiction, these descriptions can help. affectionate - a smile that shows the love a person feels for ...
Steamy yet Sophisticated: How to Write the Perfect Kissing Scene
Dolphin-Slippery Kissing in Sophie's Choice. Considered by many to be William Styron's magnum opus, this story chronicles the friendship between a young Southern writer and a polish Auschwitz survivor. In this scene the young writer, affectionally named Stingo, is observing a painting beside a young jewish girl named Leslie.
Master List of Ways to Describe Fear
A quill still wet with thick black ink rested next to a sheet of parchment filled with writing in a language he couldn't read. Crude drawings made with heavy strokes were set within the words. Some of them were disturbing — a bleeding hand cut open with a knife and a person floating lifeless below a ghoul with black eyes poised to attack.
Mirk vs Smirk: When To Use Each One In Writing?
Mirk. In formal writing, "mirk" is the more appropriate choice, as it is a more neutral term that simply describes a facial expression without any negative connotations. Informal Conversation. Smirk. In informal conversation, "smirk" is often used to describe a facial expression that is perceived as smug or arrogant.
Facial expressions: Smug/Coy/Cocky/Passive Aggressive : r/writing
Hey there! I'm working on a chapter in my book and I need help with words to describe facial expressions and/or different kinds of smiles/laughs. The character this is for is a very cocky, smug, teenage boy who is also dealing with family issues and hurting inside. He puts up these walls so he always has a coy/smug type of look on his face.
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Religions
In this article, the authors will describe a creative writing therapeutic group program they developed based on narrative therapy and narrative medicine principles. This was a Social Science and Humanities Research Council—Partnership Engagement Grant funded project, the aim of which was to develop a facilitator's manual for people interested in offering this group, titled "Journey ...