I remember when I told my book publisher that my book cover should be plain, just text. He was amazed!
Why did I say this? Because…
Telling stories with only words is about making your reader see, hear, and feel everything without relying on images or visuals. Words become your paintbrush.
Focus on details that matter. Instead of describing everything, choose elements that bring the scene to life: a sound, a gesture, a smell, or a feeling.
Use sensory language. Readers should be able to imagine the world in their mind. “The wind chilled her fingers as she walked through the empty street” tells more than “It was cold.”
Show emotion through actions and dialogue. Don’t just say someone is sad. Describe how they bite their lip, fidget, or pause mid-sentence. Let the reader feel it.
Structure matters. A clear beginning, middle, and end keeps the story coherent. Even short stories need rhythm: a start that hooks, a middle that unfolds, and an ending that resonates.
Characters bring the words to life. Readers connect with them through thoughts, quirks, and choices. Make them feel real.
Pacing is important. Slow down for moments of reflection or tension. Speed up during action or excitement. Words can influence reader’s in a big way.
Even without pictures, a well-told story leaves the reader imagining, laughing, crying, or thinking long after they finish reading. Words are enough if used thoughtfully.