Writing Tip–The Power of Small

December 14, 2009 by Chris
Filed under: Writer's Life

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Today’s writing tip is about not forgetting the little things. I think sometimes we need to step back and take a long look at the value and power of small things.

I was reminded of the power of small the other day when I was working at the day job. I had put my contacts in earlier in the morning. As luck would have it, either something in the air or a bit of eyeshadow flecked off and into my eye, probably under the contact judging by its feel.

Those of you that wear contacts, I’m sure can appreciate the discomfort. Until I could do something about it, the little speck of whatever grated against my cornea. With tears in my eyes, I headed to the restroom to remove my contacts.

The incident reminded me of another time when the power of small became so clear. Cayenne pepper is a fine-ground spice. When it gets into your eye, it can cause havoc.

All of this got me wondering, just how powerful is small. I thought of other small things that have a huge impact like that tiny sliver that gets caught under your fingernail or small slice of a paper cut. All of these are minor things, yet in a certain context, they become huge.

I thought of this in terms of my writing. Sure, the big events drive a story, but what about the little things? Things like a sideways glance or a harshly-spoke “No!” can say a lot about character and plot. Pepper your story with a few of these and you will understand the power of small.

Tags: Writing Tip

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