Lia Sebastian
When I think about my favorite movie moments, I realize that many of them involve hands.
In Persuasion, Anne sees Captain Wentworth again for the first time in years. We see how this affects her by the way her hand grips the chair when she sees him.

In North & South, Margaret doesn’t say how much Thornton means to her, how sorry she is about everything. Instead, when he takes her hand, she rests her other hand softly, gently, on top of his.

Then there’s a scene in La Femme Nikita, where Michael takes Nikita’s hand and a muscle in her hand jerks.

It’s the ultimate in showing vs. telling. None of these characters say what they are feeling. They don’t need to—their hands say it for them.
Now, when I work on a story, I think about ways my characters can speak without saying a word. It requires focus on the craft, consideration of the options. What’s the best way for someone to express emotion? Each character is different, which results in unique answers. It’s always fun to explore.
And maybe someday, a reader will close one of my books and think, “I loved that scene with the hero’s hands . . .”
Posted in TV & movies, writing |







March 26th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
This is so true. I love the way you show vs. tell, even in this post. Your hard work at the craft is bringing real dividends. How pleased you must be at your progress.
March 30th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
Remember that scene in Pride and Prejudice where Mr. Darcy takes her hand to help her into the carriage? Then when he walks away, he’s flexing that hand. Yum city.
April 12th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Cool observations! And what a great idea to craft than element into your stories.