creative writing description of a bar

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How to Describe a Bar in a Story

By Isobel Coughlan

If you’re writing a scene where characters in your novel go out for drinks at a bar, this post is for you. Scroll down to learn how to describe a bar in a story through 10 adjectives.

Somewhere that’s full of positive energy, enthusiasm, and life.

“The vibrant bar stirred with optimism. All patrons were ready to drink up and have a fabulous evening.”

“She imagined her first drink in a vibrant bar full of eccentric characters. Turning 21 is going to be amazing!”

How it Adds Description

If you’re creating a positive image of a bar, the word “vibrant” shows your fictional bar is an exciting place to be. This adjective can also extend to the patrons in the bar, showing your reader they’re also fun people to be around. “Vibrant” is a useful word to show your bar is better than others, ideal if you’re creating a contrast between multiple bar locations.

Somewhere that’s dark, dismal, and negative .

“He decided to walk straight past the gloomy bar. He wasn’t desperate enough to drink there.”

“The gloomy bar beckoned patrons in and then sucked them into a depression for the rest of the evening with bad drinks and rude staff.”

Not all bars are happy places, and the word “gloomy” captures this misery well. “Gloomy” showcases what a miserable place your fictional bar is, and you can use this setting to show the dregs of your fictional society.

Somewhere very full of people .

“She tried to squeeze through the crowded bar, but it was no use. She couldn’t find a way out.”

“Being stuck in a crowded bar is my nightmare. I hate busy places and the smell of alcohol.”

Bars can get busy, especially if there’s an event or festive party on. “Crowded” can show how densely populated the fictional bar is, and you can use this adjective to show a character’s distaste for the busy atmosphere.

4. Deafening

Somewhere that’s extremely loud.

“The deafening bar was inescapable. No matter how many types of earplugs she tried, she couldn’t get away from its music or chatter.”

“That’s the last thing we need. Another deafening bar on the street.”

“Deafening” shows how extremely loud a place is, which is ideal if you want to paint an image of a bustling and busy bar. When used in characters’ speech, this shows how much they dislike the extra noise, giving the reader a clearer understanding of their personality. It can also emphasize how unpleasant the noise is, as people are complaining about the sound levels.

5. Daunting

Something that makes people feel worried or afraid .

“She crept past the daunting bar. The frequent drinkers in the dingy establishment scared her.”

“He didn’t want to visit the daunting bar, but he knew he had to make an appearance for the sake of his family.”

The word “daunting” is a powerful way to show a character’s secret feelings about the bar. This word shows they’re not fond of the place, thus letting the reader know about their inner fears and the negative atmosphere of the bar setting. This can also foreshadow future plot points that involve the bar.

6. Sensational

Something that’s remarkable, interesting , or extremely exciting.

“What a night! That bar was sensational, and we must visit again tomorrow!”

“Excuse me, it’s my birthday, and I need to visit a sensational bar. Can you point me to the closest one?”

The word “sensational” evokes feelings of excitement and drama, which is perfect if you want to show the atmosphere of your fictional bar or your character’s personal excitement. This word also can also hint that the bar is one of the best around or especially high-quality, as it’s a very positive adjective.

Something that’s very large .

“The immense bar towered over the other buildings. You couldn’t miss it.”

“She stood on the balcony of the immense bar and watched the world go by. It was peaceful being above the world.”

If you want to show the large size of your bar, “immense” gives your reader a unique image of the building’s stature. This word can also show a character’s feelings about the bar. For example, they might think it’s extremely impressive. “Immense” is generally used as a positive adjective, ideal for fictional bars that are awe-inspiring.

Something that’s too expensive .

“You’re going to the costly bar? Did you win the lottery or something?

“It was a costly bar, but the prices were worth it. Everything was glamorous, from the drinks down to the toilets.”

“Costly” shows a character’s thoughts about the prices of the bar, and this can imply that they don’t like exclusive establishments. The adjective can also hint at how your character doesn’t like spending money, and the bar triggers stressful feelings within them surrounding money.

9. Indecent

Something offensive or shocking.

“I’m a lady! You’d never find me in an offensive bar like that.”

“The offensive bar drove away customers every night. She wished she could give it a makeover, but it wasn’t worth her time.”

Bars are often associated with bad behavior and illegal activities. If you want to emphasize the unruly nature of your bar, the word “indecent” can show how the local society perceives it. This also shows your fictional society has a strong moral code and high ideals.

10. Vintage

Something old but admired and respected.

“She longed to visit the vintage bar. Something about old-timey cocktails and grand interior decor tickled her soul.”

“As he stepped into the vintage bar, he felt like he was transported back in time. It was an incredible feeling.”

“Vintage” shows your bar isn’t from the current period or is decorated to look older. This word can also portray a character’s fondness for the aesthetic, which can further hint at a fondness for times before the present moment. “Vintage” could also hint that the bar is grand and impressive, as the adjective is often associated with high-quality old things.

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CMastah Active Member

The inside of a tavern.

Discussion in ' Setting Development ' started by CMastah , Jan 9, 2015 .

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); Need help describing the inside of a tavern as seen by a teenager for the first time in her life (think fantasy, not modern day or anything). I'll try researching the sights and sounds from other novels, but just in case there's anything I ought to consider for a teenager's first experience in such a place, I would certainly be very grateful for the info. I was personally thinking loud with lots of chatter, perhaps some folks singing in a corner, the smell of....well I have no clue, possibly dimly lit.....old...oak....tables....? Drawing blanks here  

SwampDog Senior Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); Fantasy tavern? Can you clarify? And then you start describing a pub.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); Yep, fantasy tavern, think LotR (pub, tavern, inn, there's a difference? I've never been in one so....)  

Glasswindows Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); "Tavern" can be any of those, regardless which one it is, I think the answer would depend on what kind of tavern, where and at what time. So really, you can choose, what you want to highlight there.  

plothog Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); As others have mentioned, it depends on the tavern. If people are allowed to smoke anything in there, it'll smell of that. Other possible smells include stale ale (spillages that haven't been cleaned up promptly) or if it's hot and crowded it'll smell of body odour. If they serve food it might smell of that, especially at mealtimes. It's up to you if it's busy or quiet. The state of inebriation of the clientele probably depends on how late in the day it is and how prone your culture is to heavy drinking. Singing is more likely with more drunkness, but also depends on the culture. I get the impression the Irish are more inclined to sing in pubs than us English. If there are musicians in the pub, people are more likely to sing, or even dance. Things also depends on how rough an area the tavern is located in. Nastier areas might be prone to fights. Depending on the culture your teen may or may not be allowed in there, so his main concern could be worrying about that. Or he could be worried about rowdy drunks. Some taverns will have mostly regular clientele and take notice of strangers, others will be used to large numbers of people passing through. Decor is entirely up to you. Dimly lit with oak tables is fairly safe and normal, but they do vary quite a lot, and people aren't usually going to question unusual decor in fantasy.  

ChickenFreak Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); I feel the need to ask, with regard to the teenager and the first time seeing a tavern--are you assuming that there's a drinking age in this fantasy world, and effective law enforcement to ensure that underage kids don't enter taverns? Because I'd find that fairly unlikely. If the kid's never been to a town/village large enough to have a tavern, or is of a social class that would never enter one, that's quite different.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); ChickenFreak said: ↑ I feel the need to ask, with regard to the teenager and the first time seeing a tavern--are you assuming that there's a drinking age in this fantasy world, and effective law enforcement to ensure that underage kids don't enter taverns? Because I'd find that fairly unlikely. If the kid's never been to a town/village large enough to have a tavern, or is of a social class that would never enter one, that's quite different. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); The girl is about 14 but she's tall and built like a guy, she's from a more tribal culture but is being raised in a human city (and being segregated almost entirely). She saw some drunks one day and got curious about what made them act so 'funny'. On drinking age, it shouldn't come up as a concern because by appearance alone she looks big enough to be of age. Would one of these pubs have bouncers back in the day?  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); I don't think the typical pub would have a bouncer, but there's nothing to stop you writing an establishment which has one if you need too.  

theoriginalmonsterman Pickle Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); Dimly lit, a bar with a polished oak countertop, round tables with stools, the scent of cigarette smoke... yeah... I have no clue ._.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); CMastah said: ↑ Would one of these pubs have bouncers back in the day? Click to expand...

Duchess-Yukine-Suoh Girl #21 Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); CMastah said: ↑ Need help describing the inside of a tavern as seen by a teenager for the first time in her life (think fantasy, not modern day or anything). I'll try researching the sights and sounds from other novels, but just in case there's anything I ought to consider for a teenager's first experience in such a place, I would certainly be very grateful for the info. I was personally thinking loud with lots of chatter, perhaps some folks singing in a corner, the smell of....well I have no clue, possibly dimly lit.....old...oak....tables....? Drawing blanks here Click to expand...

Shadowfax Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); theoriginalmonsterman said: ↑ Dimly lit, a bar with a polished oak countertop, round tables with stools, the scent of cigarette smoke... yeah... I have no clue ._. Click to expand...

Gawler Senior Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); For fantasy purposes think of a dimly lit room with splinter laden wooden tables and benches. People drinking from tankards full of ale, gruit (ale made from herbs or plants other than hops), cider or mead. Drinks brought to the tables. Rustic food. The barman acting as the bouncer. A brewery out the back and a cellar for storage.  

tonguetied Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_ae8e2e88450fe056e2a15c28ffa4d562'); }); What she "sees" may depend on how she appears. If she was attractive she would see a lot of men eyeing her, the women may see her as a threat and show that to her. If the environment makes her uncomfortable the décor probably won't be memorable. Often taverns will have things on display that are common for the area or lifestyle, maybe even semi-historic artifacts such as weapons and shields, for example. And I think what anyone "sees" is largely influenced on what they are familiar with, you might not even notice something that you have not seen before, it might blend in with the general surroundings. If the bartender is unusual looking, scar on cheek, peg-leg, etc. that might be the primary thing she focuses on.  

Keitsumah The Dream-Walker Contributor

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What Is Creative Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 20 Examples)

Creative writing begins with a blank page and the courage to fill it with the stories only you can tell.

I face this intimidating blank page daily–and I have for the better part of 20+ years.

In this guide, you’ll learn all the ins and outs of creative writing with tons of examples.

What Is Creative Writing (Long Description)?

Creative Writing is the art of using words to express ideas and emotions in imaginative ways. It encompasses various forms including novels, poetry, and plays, focusing on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes.

Table of Contents

Let’s expand on that definition a bit.

Creative writing is an art form that transcends traditional literature boundaries.

It includes professional, journalistic, academic, and technical writing. This type of writing emphasizes narrative craft, character development, and literary tropes. It also explores poetry and poetics traditions.

In essence, creative writing lets you express ideas and emotions uniquely and imaginatively.

It’s about the freedom to invent worlds, characters, and stories. These creations evoke a spectrum of emotions in readers.

Creative writing covers fiction, poetry, and everything in between.

It allows writers to express inner thoughts and feelings. Often, it reflects human experiences through a fabricated lens.

Types of Creative Writing

There are many types of creative writing that we need to explain.

Some of the most common types:

• Short stories
• Screenplays
• Flash fiction
• Creative Nonfiction

Short Stories (The Brief Escape)

Short stories are like narrative treasures.

They are compact but impactful, telling a full story within a limited word count. These tales often focus on a single character or a crucial moment.

Short stories are known for their brevity.

They deliver emotion and insight in a concise yet powerful package. This format is ideal for exploring diverse genres, themes, and characters. It leaves a lasting impression on readers.

Example: Emma discovers an old photo of her smiling grandmother. It’s a rarity. Through flashbacks, Emma learns about her grandmother’s wartime love story. She comes to understand her grandmother’s resilience and the value of joy.

Novels (The Long Journey)

Novels are extensive explorations of character, plot, and setting.

They span thousands of words, giving writers the space to create entire worlds. Novels can weave complex stories across various themes and timelines.

The length of a novel allows for deep narrative and character development.

Readers get an immersive experience.

Example: Across the Divide tells of two siblings separated in childhood. They grow up in different cultures. Their reunion highlights the strength of family bonds, despite distance and differences.

Poetry (The Soul’s Language)

Poetry expresses ideas and emotions through rhythm, sound, and word beauty.

It distills emotions and thoughts into verses. Poetry often uses metaphors, similes, and figurative language to reach the reader’s heart and mind.

Poetry ranges from structured forms, like sonnets, to free verse.

The latter breaks away from traditional formats for more expressive thought.

Example: Whispers of Dawn is a poem collection capturing morning’s quiet moments. “First Light” personifies dawn as a painter. It brings colors of hope and renewal to the world.

Plays (The Dramatic Dialogue)

Plays are meant for performance. They bring characters and conflicts to life through dialogue and action.

This format uniquely explores human relationships and societal issues.

Playwrights face the challenge of conveying setting, emotion, and plot through dialogue and directions.

Example: Echoes of Tomorrow is set in a dystopian future. Memories can be bought and sold. It follows siblings on a quest to retrieve their stolen memories. They learn the cost of living in a world where the past has a price.

Screenplays (Cinema’s Blueprint)

Screenplays outline narratives for films and TV shows.

They require an understanding of visual storytelling, pacing, and dialogue. Screenplays must fit film production constraints.

Example: The Last Light is a screenplay for a sci-fi film. Humanity’s survivors on a dying Earth seek a new planet. The story focuses on spacecraft Argo’s crew as they face mission challenges and internal dynamics.

Memoirs (The Personal Journey)

Memoirs provide insight into an author’s life, focusing on personal experiences and emotional journeys.

They differ from autobiographies by concentrating on specific themes or events.

Memoirs invite readers into the author’s world.

They share lessons learned and hardships overcome.

Example: Under the Mango Tree is a memoir by Maria Gomez. It shares her childhood memories in rural Colombia. The mango tree in their yard symbolizes home, growth, and nostalgia. Maria reflects on her journey to a new life in America.

Flash Fiction (The Quick Twist)

Flash fiction tells stories in under 1,000 words.

It’s about crafting compelling narratives concisely. Each word in flash fiction must count, often leading to a twist.

This format captures life’s vivid moments, delivering quick, impactful insights.

Example: The Last Message features an astronaut’s final Earth message as her spacecraft drifts away. In 500 words, it explores isolation, hope, and the desire to connect against all odds.

Creative Nonfiction (The Factual Tale)

Creative nonfiction combines factual accuracy with creative storytelling.

This genre covers real events, people, and places with a twist. It uses descriptive language and narrative arcs to make true stories engaging.

Creative nonfiction includes biographies, essays, and travelogues.

Example: Echoes of Everest follows the author’s Mount Everest climb. It mixes factual details with personal reflections and the history of past climbers. The narrative captures the climb’s beauty and challenges, offering an immersive experience.

Fantasy (The World Beyond)

Fantasy transports readers to magical and mythical worlds.

It explores themes like good vs. evil and heroism in unreal settings. Fantasy requires careful world-building to create believable yet fantastic realms.

Example: The Crystal of Azmar tells of a young girl destined to save her world from darkness. She learns she’s the last sorceress in a forgotten lineage. Her journey involves mastering powers, forming alliances, and uncovering ancient kingdom myths.

Science Fiction (The Future Imagined)

Science fiction delves into futuristic and scientific themes.

It questions the impact of advancements on society and individuals.

Science fiction ranges from speculative to hard sci-fi, focusing on plausible futures.

Example: When the Stars Whisper is set in a future where humanity communicates with distant galaxies. It centers on a scientist who finds an alien message. This discovery prompts a deep look at humanity’s universe role and interstellar communication.

Watch this great video that explores the question, “What is creative writing?” and “How to get started?”:

What Are the 5 Cs of Creative Writing?

The 5 Cs of creative writing are fundamental pillars.

They guide writers to produce compelling and impactful work. These principles—Clarity, Coherence, Conciseness, Creativity, and Consistency—help craft stories that engage and entertain.

They also resonate deeply with readers. Let’s explore each of these critical components.

Clarity makes your writing understandable and accessible.

It involves choosing the right words and constructing clear sentences. Your narrative should be easy to follow.

In creative writing, clarity means conveying complex ideas in a digestible and enjoyable way.

Coherence ensures your writing flows logically.

It’s crucial for maintaining the reader’s interest. Characters should develop believably, and plots should progress logically. This makes the narrative feel cohesive.

Conciseness

Conciseness is about expressing ideas succinctly.

It’s being economical with words and avoiding redundancy. This principle helps maintain pace and tension, engaging readers throughout the story.

Creativity is the heart of creative writing.

It allows writers to invent new worlds and create memorable characters. Creativity involves originality and imagination. It’s seeing the world in unique ways and sharing that vision.

Consistency

Consistency maintains a uniform tone, style, and voice.

It means being faithful to the world you’ve created. Characters should act true to their development. This builds trust with readers, making your story immersive and believable.

Is Creative Writing Easy?

Creative writing is both rewarding and challenging.

Crafting stories from your imagination involves more than just words on a page. It requires discipline and a deep understanding of language and narrative structure.

Exploring complex characters and themes is also key.

Refining and revising your work is crucial for developing your voice.

The ease of creative writing varies. Some find the freedom of expression liberating.

Others struggle with writer’s block or plot development challenges. However, practice and feedback make creative writing more fulfilling.

What Does a Creative Writer Do?

A creative writer weaves narratives that entertain, enlighten, and inspire.

Writers explore both the world they create and the emotions they wish to evoke. Their tasks are diverse, involving more than just writing.

Creative writers develop ideas, research, and plan their stories.

They create characters and outline plots with attention to detail. Drafting and revising their work is a significant part of their process. They strive for the 5 Cs of compelling writing.

Writers engage with the literary community, seeking feedback and participating in workshops.

They may navigate the publishing world with agents and editors.

Creative writers are storytellers, craftsmen, and artists. They bring narratives to life, enriching our lives and expanding our imaginations.

How to Get Started With Creative Writing?

Embarking on a creative writing journey can feel like standing at the edge of a vast and mysterious forest.

The path is not always clear, but the adventure is calling.

Here’s how to take your first steps into the world of creative writing:

• Find a time of day when your mind is most alert and creative.
• Create a comfortable writing space free from distractions.
• Use prompts to spark your imagination. They can be as simple as a word, a phrase, or an image.
• Try writing for 15-20 minutes on a prompt without editing yourself. Let the ideas flow freely.
• Reading is fuel for your writing. Explore various genres and styles.
• Pay attention to how your favorite authors construct their sentences, develop characters, and build their worlds.
• Don’t pressure yourself to write a novel right away. Begin with short stories or poems.
• Small projects can help you hone your skills and boost your confidence.
• Look for writing groups in your area or online. These communities offer support, feedback, and motivation.
• Participating in workshops or classes can also provide valuable insights into your writing.
• Understand that your first draft is just the beginning. Revising your work is where the real magic happens.
• Be open to feedback and willing to rework your pieces.
• Carry a notebook or digital recorder to jot down ideas, observations, and snippets of conversations.
• These notes can be gold mines for future writing projects.

Final Thoughts: What Is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is an invitation to explore the unknown, to give voice to the silenced, and to celebrate the human spirit in all its forms.

Check out these creative writing tools (that I highly recommend):

Read This Next:

• What Is a Prompt in Writing? (Ultimate Guide + 200 Examples)
• What Is A Personal Account In Writing? (47 Examples)
• How To Write A Fantasy Short Story (Ultimate Guide + Examples)
• How To Write A Fantasy Romance Novel [21 Tips + Examples)

A Guide to Descriptive Writing

by Melissa Donovan | Jan 7, 2021 | Creative Writing | 8 comments

What is descriptive writing?

Writing description is a necessary skill for most writers. Whether we’re writing an essay, a story, or a poem, we usually reach a point where we need to describe something. In fiction, we describe settings and characters. In poetry, we describe scenes, experiences, and emotions. In creative nonfiction, we describe reality. Descriptive writing is especially important for speculative fiction writers and poets. If you’ve created a fantasy world, then you’ll need to deftly describe it to readers; Lewis Carroll not only described Wonderland  (aff link); he also described the fantastical creatures that inhabited it.

But many writers are challenged by description writing, and many readers find it boring to read — when it’s not crafted skillfully.

However, I think it’s safe to say that technology has spoiled us. Thanks to photos and videos, we’ve become increasingly visual, which means it’s getting harder to use words to describe something, especially if it only exists in our imaginations.

What is Descriptive Writing?

One might say that descriptive writing is the art of painting a picture with words. But descriptive writing goes beyond visuals. Descriptive writing hits all the senses; we describe how things look, sound, smell, taste, and feel (their tactile quality).

The term descriptive writing can mean a few different things:

• The act of writing description ( I’m doing some descriptive writing ).
• A descriptive essay is short-form prose that is meant to describe something in detail; it can describe a person, place, event, object, or anything else.
• Description as part of a larger work: This is the most common kind of descriptive writing. It is usually a sentence or paragraph (sometimes multiple paragraphs) that provide description, usually to help the reader visualize what’s happening, where it’s happening, or how it’s happening. It’s most commonly used to describe a setting or a character. An example would be a section of text within a novel that establishes the setting by describing a room or a passage that introduces a character with a physical description.
• Writing that is descriptive (or vivid) — an author’s style: Some authors weave description throughout their prose and verse, interspersing it through the dialogue and action. It’s a style of writing that imparts description without using large blocks of text that are explicitly focused on description.
• Description is integral in poetry writing. Poetry emphasizes imagery, and imagery is rendered in writing via description, so descriptive writing is a crucial skill for most poets.

Depending on what you write, you’ve probably experimented with one of more of these types of descriptive writing, maybe all of them.

Can you think of any other types of descriptive writing that aren’t listed here?

How Much Description is Too Much?

Classic literature was dense with description whereas modern literature usually keeps description to a minimum.

Compare the elaborate descriptions in J.R.R. Tolkien’s  Lord of the Rings  trilogy  with the descriptions in J.K. Rowling’s  Harry Potter series  (aff links). Both series relied on description to help readers visualize an imagined, fantastical world, but Rowling did not use her precious writing space to describe standard settings whereas Tolkien frequently paused all action and spent pages describing a single landscape.

This isn’t unique to Tolkien and Rowling; if you compare most literature from the beginning of of the 20th century and earlier to today’s written works, you’ll see that we just don’t dedicate much time and space to description anymore.

I think this radical change in how we approach description is directly tied to the wide availability of film, television, and photography. Let’s say you were living in the 19th century, writing a story about a tropical island for an audience of northern, urban readers. You would be fairly certain that most of your readers had never seen such an island and had no idea what it looked like. To give your audience a full sense of your story’s setting, you’d need pages of detail describing the lush jungle, sandy beaches, and warm waters.

Nowadays, we all know what a tropical island looks like, thanks to the wide availability of media. Even if you’ve never been to such an island, surely you’ve seen one on TV. This might explain why few books on the craft of writing address descriptive writing. The focus is usually on other elements, like language, character, plot, theme, and structure.

For contemporary writers, the trick is to make the description as precise and detailed as possible while keeping it to a minimum. Most readers want characters and action with just enough description so that they can imagine the story as it’s unfolding.

If you’ve ever encountered a story that paused to provide head-to-toe descriptions along with detailed backstories of every character upon their introduction into the narrative, you know just how grating description can be when executed poorly.

However, it’s worth noting that a skilled writer can roll out descriptions that are riveting to read. Sometimes they’re riveting because they’re integrated seamlessly with the action and dialogue; other times, the description is deftly crafted and engaging on its own. In fact, an expert descriptive writer can keep readers glued through multiple pages of description.

Descriptive Writing Tips

I’ve encountered descriptive writing so smooth and seamless that I easily visualized what was happening without even noticing that I was reading description. Some authors craft descriptions that are so lovely, I do notice — but in a good way. Some of them are so compelling that I pause to read them again.

On the other hand, poorly crafted descriptions can really impede a reader’s experience. Description doesn’t work if it’s unclear, verbose, or bland. Most readers prefer action and dialogue to lengthy descriptions, so while a paragraph here and there can certainly help readers better visualize what’s happening, pages and pages of description can increase the risk that they’ll set your work aside and never pick it up again. There are exceptions to every rule, so the real trick is to know when lengthy descriptions are warranted and when they’re just boring.

Here are some general tips for descriptive writing:

• Use distinct descriptions that stand out and are memorable. For example, don’t write that a character is five foot two with brown hair and blue eyes. Give the reader something to remember. Say the character is short with mousy hair and sky-blue eyes.
• Make description active: Consider the following description of a room: There was a bookshelf in the corner. A desk sat under the window. The walls were beige, and the floor was tiled. That’s boring. Try something like this: A massive oak desk sat below a large picture window and beside a shelf overflowing with books. Hardcovers, paperbacks, and binders were piled on the dingy tiled floor in messy stacks.  In the second example, words like  overflowing  and  piled are active.
• Weave description through the narrative: Sometimes a character enters a room and looks around, so the narrative needs to pause to describe what the character sees. Other times, description can be threaded through the narrative. For example, instead of pausing to describe a character, engage that character in dialogue with another character. Use the characters’ thoughts and the dialogue tags to reveal description: He stared at her flowing, auburn curls, which reminded him of his mother’s hair. “Where were you?” he asked, shifting his green eyes across the restaurant to where a customer was hassling one of the servers.

Simple descriptions are surprisingly easy to execute. All you have to do is look at something (or imagine it) and write what you see. But well-crafted descriptions require writers to pay diligence to word choice, to describe only those elements that are most important, and to use engaging language to paint a picture in the reader’s mind. Instead of spending several sentences describing a character’s height, weight, age, hair color, eye color, and clothing, a few, choice details will often render a more vivid image for the reader: Red hair framed her round, freckled face like a spray of flames. This only reveals three descriptive details: red hair, a round face, and freckles. Yet it paints more vivid picture than a statistical head-to-toe rundown:  She was five foot three and no more than a hundred and ten pounds with red hair, blue eyes, and a round, freckled face.

10 descriptive writing practices.

How to Practice Writing Description

Here are some descriptive writing activities that will inspire you while providing opportunities to practice writing description. If you don’t have much experience with descriptive writing, you may find that your first few attempts are flat and boring. If you can’t keep readers engaged, they’ll wander off. Work at crafting descriptions that are compelling and mesmerizing.

• Go to one of your favorite spots and write a description of the setting: it could be your bedroom, a favorite coffee shop, or a local park. Leave people, dialogue, and action out of it. Just focus on explaining what the space looks like.
• Who is your favorite character from the movies? Describe the character from head to toe. Show the reader not only what the character looks like, but also how the character acts. Do this without including action or dialogue. Remember: description only!
• Forty years ago we didn’t have cell phones or the internet. Now we have cell phones that can access the internet. Think of a device or gadget that we’ll have forty years from now and describe it.
• Since modern fiction is light on description, many young and new writers often fail to include details, even when the reader needs them. Go through one of your writing projects and make sure elements that readers may not be familiar with are adequately described.
• Sometimes in a narrative, a little description provides respite from all the action and dialogue. Make a list of things from a story you’re working on (gadgets, characters, settings, etc.), and for each one, write a short description of no more than a hundred words.
• As mentioned, Tolkien often spent pages describing a single landscape. Choose one of your favorite pieces of classic literature, find a long passage of description, and rewrite it. Try to cut the descriptive word count in half.
• When you read a book, use a highlighter to mark sentences and paragraphs that contain description. Don’t highlight every adjective and adverb. Look for longer passages that are dedicated to description.
• Write a description for a child. Choose something reasonably difficult, like the solar system. How do you describe it in such a way that a child understands how he or she fits into it?
• Most writers dream of someday writing a book. Describe your book cover.
• Write a one-page description of yourself.

If you have any descriptive writing practices to add to this list, feel free to share them in the comments.

Descriptive Writing

Does descriptive writing come easily to you, or do you struggle with it? Do you put much thought into how you write description? What types of descriptive writing have you tackled — descriptive essays, blocks of description within larger texts, or descriptions woven throughout a narrative? Share your tips for descriptive writing by leaving a comment, and keep writing!

Further Reading: Abolish the Adverbs , Making the Right Word Choices for Better Writing , and Writing Description in Fiction .

I find descriptions easier when first beginning a scene. Other ones I struggle with. Yes, intertwining them with dialogue does help a lot.

I have the opposite experience. I tend to dive right into action and dialogue when I first start a scene.

I came across this article at just the right time. I am just starting to write a short story. This will change the way I describe characters in my story.

Thank you for this. R.G. Ramsey

You’re welcome!

Great tips and how to practise and improve our descriptive writing skills. Thank you for sharing.

You’re welcome, Bella.

Hello Melissa

I have read many of your articles about different aspects of writing and have enjoyed all of them. What you said here, I agree with, with the exception of #7. That is one point that I dispute and don’t understand the reason why anyone would do this, though I’ve seen books that had things like that done to them.

To me, a book is something to be treasured, loved and taken care of. It deserves my respect because I’m sure the author poured their heart and soul into its creation. Marking it up that way is nothing short of defacing it. A book or story is a form of art, so should a person mark over a picture by Rembrandt or any other famous painter? You’re a very talented author, so why would you want someone to mark through the words you had spent considerable time and effort agonizing over, while searching for the best words to convey your thoughts?

If I want to remember some section or point the author is making, then I’ll take a pen and paper and record the page number and perhaps the first few words of that particular section. I’ve found that writing a note this way helps me remember it better. This is then placed inside the cover for future reference. If someone did what you’ve suggested to a book of mine, I’d be madder than a ‘wet hen’, and that person would certainly be told what I thought of them.

In any of the previous articles you’ve written, you’ve brought up some excellent points which I’ve tried to incorporate in my writing. Keep up the good work as I know your efforts have helped me, and I’m sure other authors as well.

Hi Stanley. Thanks so much for sharing your point of view. I appreciate and value it.

Marking up a book is a common practice, especially in academia. Putting notes in margins, underlining, highlighting, and tagging pages with bookmarks is standard. Personally, I mark up nonfiction paperbacks, but I never mark up fiction paperbacks or any hardcovers (not since college).

I completely respect your right to keep your books in pristine condition. And years ago, when I started college, I felt exactly the same way. I was horrified that people (instructors and professors!) would fill their books with ugly yellow highlighting and other markips. But I quickly realized that this was shortsighted.

Consider an old paperback that is worn and dog-eared. With one look, you know this book has been read many times and it’s probably loved. It’s like the Velveteen Rabbit of books. I see markups as the same — that someone was engaging with the book and trying to understand it on a deeper level, which is not disrespectful. It’s something to be celebrated.

Sometimes we place too much value on the book as a physical object rather than what’s inside. I appreciate a beautiful book as much as anyone but what really matters to me is the information or experience that it contains. I often read on a Kindle. Sometimes I listen to audio books. There is no physical book. The experience is not lessened.

I understand where you’re coming from. I used to feel the same way, but my mind was changed. I’m not trying to change yours, but I hope you’ll understand.

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Columns > Published on March 22nd, 2012

Writing Powerful Descriptions

Writing is an account of how people think. As a medium it's intrinsically empathic; it communicates patently human sensibilities. In order for a story to work, it needs to feel like real life, even when it’s actually something quite different. The more detailed and rich your descriptions, the better your writing will approximate the human experience, thereby establishing a connection with fellow minds.

The best descriptions are the ones that are completely original, easily understood and often reminisced. They're digestible yet impressionable, they say something profound but they’re palatable enough to be comprehended by anyone. It’s a difficult technique to master, an art form in itself, really.

Consider this a primer for writing good descriptions (here’s your first lesson: “good” isn’t a suitable or sufficient way to describe anything). To make things interesting  — and very embarrassing for me — I’ve dug up several of my own stories from years past to illustrate some truly awful blunders in description, each of which poisoned workshops at varying times during the earlier half of the last decade. Be warned: some major toadstools lie ahead.

Appeal to the senses

Words with strong sensory associations always increase your chances of yielding an empathic response. Why? When you appeal to our sensory faculties, you’re inviting us to imagine how something  feels . Literally.

In order to maximize that empathic response, try to appeal to all the senses as often as you can. Don’t just tell us what something looks like, tell us how it sounds, how it tastes. Recent studies show words containing sensory descriptions are so powerful they even stimulate areas of the brain that aren't used to process language. When we read a detailed account of how something smells, for example, our sensory cortex gets a signal. In other words, the brain often treats real experiences and reading about them as the same thing. If you really want to place your reader in the story, your writing should take advantage of our collective faulty wiring whenever you can.

The same applies to our relationships with the laws of physics. Words describing motion can stimulate the motor cortex, which is responsible for coordinating body movements. If you really want to simulate motion, try doing this while varying the rhythms in your sentences. Want to increase action? Put your subject directly before the verb. To slow down the motion (in other words, to add emphasis), shorten the sentence. If you want to bring things to a stop, try replacing a conjunction with a comma: The fields are barren now, deserted. Here’s another trick: if you want to temporarily “stop” time, try removing the verbs altogether.

Be specific

Avoid summary in your descriptions. Offer concrete information, engage us with moment-to-moment details, tell us about each detail, and how they affect the senses.

One of the most practical — and indeed, easiest — ways of laying out a descriptive foundation is to envision each scene before you write it. Literally close your eyes, see the scene and then write it down. For the time being, just let the image do its work; look closely at the objects in the scene, and describe them in a manner that’s as painfully specific as possible. Now — to establish storytelling authority — make sure the description is told from the proper subjective viewpoint: tell us how the character or narrator would see things from the POV you've established.

Here’s an especially bad slice of description from a story I wrote eight years ago:

Example (bad): It is hot.

“It is hot” would be fine if I were filling out a police report, or even writing a piece of journalism. But this was intended to be a work of fiction. Clearly, I hadn’t yet realized that by generalizing and not appealing to the readers' senses I missed an ideal opportunity to connect with empathizing human minds.

Example (better): The heat is oppressive, sweltering and exhausting, it sticks to the skin and makes ovens out of parking lots.

Some things to always consider when you’re writing a scene: do your word choices paint images, do they place us in the moment? Do they make us participants in the story instead of mere observers? Not only is this new sentence more specific, it brings in a few common experiences associated with heat (sticky skin, broiling parking lots), thereby placing readers into the action and increasing the chances of an empathic response.

Limit modifiers

It’s bad timing given my last example, but try to cut down on your adjectives and adverbs. Modifiers don’t specify words as much as you might think. More often than not, they actually abstract a thought, so sentences that rely on modifiers for descriptive strength are building on faulty foundations. You’ll be more successful if you instead find the verb that perfectly portrays the image you’re envisioning. When you edit your work, spend considerable time scrutinizing your sentences to make sure the action maximizes full descriptive potential.

Example (bad): They arrived at the house just behind the streaming line of fire trucks, their street alive in the opulent glow of lights and sirens, their house ablaze in a perennial bloom of orange and yellow.

Unfortunately, this story was published before I possessed the wherewithal to edit such obtuse overwriting. Looking at it five years later, the sentence would have been fine if I simply cut down on the modifiers and let the action breathe.

Example (better): They arrived at the house just behind the fire trucks, the street alive in a glow of lights and sirens, their house ablaze.

Notice how this version places an emphasis on the verbs. Moreover, there’s another advantage gained here. In the first version, the sentence ends with a description of the colors of the blaze, hardly essential information. Now emphasis is placed on the most important information in the sentence (and in this case, the entire story): the burning house. If you want to draw extra emphasis to anything, put it at the end of the sentence. Placing it at the beginning is a close second. Never bury important information in the middle.

Use figurative language

Ever wonder why metaphor and analogy are such powerful — not to mention, popular — tools? Figurative language is an unmatched ally in descriptive pursuits. It gives the writer a chance to deconstruct a specific, subjective event and recast it into something familiar.

The human mind is engineered to see patterns. Anytime you disguise a comparison as a statement (which is what happens with a metaphor) you’re bringing the subject into a new relationship. You’ve established one pattern as being analogous to another pre-existing pattern, and we begin to see a small part of the world in a different way. It takes some creative know-how to make figurative language fly however, and metaphors that are confused, off-base or cliché can ruin an otherwise stellar piece of writing. The analogous relationships you establish have to be earned.

Example (bad): The overcast September sky stared back under a blanket of ashen gray.

First of all, I could happily live the remainder of my days without ever hearing clouds being referred to as a “blanket” again (ditto for “cotton”). Description this familiar tells me I wasn’t particularly inspired when I wrote it, back in 2005. Then there’s the semantic clumsiness of it all. “Blanket of ashen gray?" Why not just write “ashen gray blanket,” or better yet, “gray blanket?” Finally, do skies really “stare back?" The figurative appeals here (clichéd metaphor, awkward personification) seem careless, even lazy. If I were to rewrite the phrase today I might say something like this:

Example (better): There was an orange burn where the sun had been, and the mutilated animal shapes of cloud lay scattered in the tear of dusk.

It’s overkill, but you get the idea. Say something that both reconstructs the subject and enables the reader to see the world in a new, yet recognizable, light.

Also, avoid well-worn words and everyday figures of speech. Describing a farmhouse as “quaint," or using phrases like “before he knew it,” are so familiar the reader treats them as boilerplate and usually skips over them entirely. Always try to describe something in a way that’s never been described before.

Get to the point

If there’s a single take-away I want readers to get from a column that focuses on description, it’s this: avoid obfuscating and pointless over-writing. It’s not the job of the writer to besiege the reader, either with a litany of unimportant details or some long-winded, faux intellectual attempt at armchair discourse. Unfortunately, it seems nearly every writer (myself included) goes through this cringe-inducing phase where we pillage the dictionary or treat our keyboards like calculators. Works resulting from this mindset offer very little descriptive assistance for the reader, and a lot of later embarrassment for writers guilty of these storytelling snafus. When it comes to description, focus on the most telling details rather than caving in to your writerly proclivities to lean on the pen. You’ll thank me later.

Example (bad): He wondered if there was some deeper meaning to it, if the heat spoke of the true workings of this city, the only place he’d known really, and if he tried hard enough he could find an answer that satisfied him, an explanation beyond what those fortunate to have everything and those cursed with nothing have always been forced to accept, if nature’s brutality revealed a final authority, and man’s need to find reason with it was little more than a grotesque delusion that he could make sense out of nothing.

What a mess! Sentences like this reveal a practice that’s very common today, where writers spin these syntactical Triple Lindies in the hopes they can somehow scare people into liking their work. There’s a sort of bullying insecurity afoot here, because the delivery seems to operate off the idea that if readers don’t like the work, clearly it means they “didn’t understand it.” In actuality, this hat trick works on very few people, and incidentally, what’s on the page here says very, very little. This section’s descriptive duties would’ve been much more effective if I had ditched the dime-store existentialism and described instead what the character was thinking, in terms more fitting of his POV. The fundamental disregard to work within the descriptive framework of the character I established — to choose authorial square jawed smugness instead of revealing things the way the character would have seen them, in other words — reveals a rudimentary mishandling of narrative. In the end, it’s the writer who suffers the most from this kind of cloying pedantry, because he/she has deliberately girded the sentences’ potential strengths with mindless clutter.

Example (better): He wondered if the heat revealed nature’s final authority, and that man’s need to find reason with it was little more than a grotesque delusion that he could make sense out of nothing.

The sentence’s newfound pith reestablishes some aphoristic value that was completely submerged in the verbiage. It’s still not a very good sentence, mind you, but it’s far less annoying than what was on the page before. Maybe someday I’ll go back and further try to clean up this mess-terpiece, but until then I’m more than happy to let my purple prose serve as a lesson in moderation and sensibility. Here’s hoping you can also learn from your mistakes — as well as mine.

Find out about Jon Gingerich's 'Fundamentals of Short Fiction' class , which begins todfay! (few seats still available!)

About the author

Jon Gingerich is editor of O'Dwyer's magazine in New York. His fiction has been published in literary journals such as The Oyez Review, Pleiades, Helix Magazine , as well as The New York Press , London’s Litro magazine, and many others. He currently writes about politics and media trends at www.odwyerpr.com . Jon holds an MFA in creative writing from The New School. Some of his published fiction can be found at www.jongingerich.com .

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Website Inspiration: 20 Great Restaurant Description Examples

January 6, 2022

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Now more than ever, it happens on your restaurant's website.

Restaurants know the importance of a strong first impression. It's why they invest in exterior design, decorate their entranceways and train hosts to welcome guests with a warm smile. 

Nowadays, however,  more than 70%  of diners visit a restaurant's website before deciding where to dine, which means the first impression happens long before they set foot on-premises. It happens online. And when it does, the restaurant description plays a pivotal role.

Despite this, many restaurants struggle to write an effective description for their website. Doing so requires a mix of skills not every restaurant has — writing, design and a keen understanding of digital user behavior — but there are tools in place to make the job easier. For example, if you  build your website  with BentoBox, full-service designers can help create your website on a template that is proven to be user-friendly. That takes care of the design and user behavior hurdles.

To help overcome the writing hurdle, we've created the resource below. In addition to defining best practices, we have curated 20 examples of effective restaurant descriptions and analyzed why they work. If you don't know where to start or feel stuck, scroll through these examples and see if they spark new ideas.

Rank High, Earn Big: Restaurant SEO 101

Learn the SEO basics, differences between search & map SEO, and how BentoBox helps restaurants rank higher in searches.

How Do You Write an Online Restaurant Description?

A good restaurant description needs to make a strong first impression on would-be diners. This means the writing should be grammatically sound and typo-free — but it also means the content should make strategic sense for your brand. There are several keys to doing this correctly:

Define your objective.  As you'll see in the examples below, descriptions that work for some restaurants would fall flat for others. A cocktail lounge might want its description to be a call to adventure, while a sandwich shop might simply want to say it has the lowest prices in town. Define the main thing you want your audience to know or feel, then use that as a north star to guide your writing.

Outline key points.  Now that you know your objective, write down all the key messages you want to communicate. Sort them into tiers of importance, and be honest about what is "nice to know" versus what is "need to know." Digital attention spans are short, so if you try to include every selling point — rather than just the essentials — readers will gloss over your description. The more information you ask them to retain, the less they actually will.

Consider the visuals.  As you determine the best way to communicate "need to know" messages, remember that text is not the only way to communicate. Many of the examples below use design and photography to reinforce their key selling points. This reduces how much text you need and helps solve the attention span issue mentioned above, but to do it correctly across devices, you'll need a well-designed website platform .

Edit & ask for feedback. There's a famous saying in the writing industry: "writing is rewriting." In other words, your first draft always needs work, and the real craft of writing comes in making that first draft better. When you have something down, read it over for typos but also play around with different word choices and sentence structures. Ask people you trust for feedback. If you do this well, you'll only have to do it once. It's worth investing a little extra time.

The examples below are designed to help with this process. It may be helpful to bookmark this page and refer to them while you write and edit. Or, you can view them all now and see if any stand out as starting points.

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Restaurant Description Examples: With Headlines

The first 10 examples use headlines, or bold text above the main description, in rhetorically interesting ways. Headlines are optional in restaurant descriptions, but when used right they capture attention and reinforce key messages.

1. Bubby's

Description Text

SERVED EVERY DAY SINCE 1990

Bubby’s opened on Thanksgiving Day 1990. Chef / Owner Ron Silver began baking pies and selling them to restaurants and his neighbors out of a small kitchen at the corner of Hudson and North Moore St. in Tribeca. Today, NYC’s beloved restaurant and pie shop celebrates 27 years of classic, made from scratch American cooking.

Why It's Effective

Rather than calling itself a “New York institution” or using the word "reliable," Bubby’s uses its headline to make a specific claim — ”Served every day since 1990” — that demonstrates those ideas. This captures more attention and paints a richer, more vivid picture of its history and role in the community. The rest of the description supports this by adding details to the story of its founding and explaining that even three decades later, its scratch approach to cooking remains the same.

2. Old Ebbitt Grill

Description Text (abridged)

THE OLDEST SALOON IN WASHINGTON

The Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington's oldest saloon, was founded in 1856 when, according to legend, innkeeper William E. Ebbitt bought a boarding house. Today, no one can pinpoint the house’s exact location, but it was most likely on the edge of present-day Chinatown.

As a boarding house, the Ebbitt guest list read like a Who's Who of American History. President McKinley is said to have lived there during his tenure in Congress, and Presidents Ulysses S. Grant, Andrew Johnson, Grover Cleveland, Theodore Roosevelt and Warren Harding supposedly refreshed themselves at its stand-around bar.

Like Bubby's, Old Ebbitt Grill uses its headline to make a specific claim that paints a vivid picture. This claim — "The oldest saloon in Washington" — is even bolder and more eye-catching, especially with the black-and-white photo beside it. The description delivers on the promise of the headline, listing the U.S. presidents who have frequented the famous saloon. Instead of explicitly stating, "Old Ebbitt Grill has a rich history," this approach paints a picture that helps people  feel  the history.

Description Text 

SAY NO TO MEATS ON DRUGS

The fabric of Cutlets was born out of love and respect for these humble deli creations, met with a desire to bring quality ingredients to the table. Simply put, we’re here to bring you a sandwich experience you can feel good about.

This headline — a parody of the 1980s-era  Just Say No campaign  — does three important things simultaneously: 

Captures user attention.

Establishes the brand as fun & playful.

Introduces a key selling point of the restaurant (natural ingredients).

It's rare for one line of copy to accomplish so much so quickly, but when it happens, it's extremely powerful. Cutlets combines this description with a carousel of high-resolution food photography, which rounds out the homepage and leaves a strong impression on future diners.

4. Los Tacos No. 1

lostacos1.com

BIENVENIDOS

Los Tacos No. 1 was created after three close friends from Tijuana, Mexico, and Brawley, California, decided to bring the authentic Mexican taco to the east coast.

The authentic taste comes from family recipes and from fresh, simple and tasteful ingredients straight from home. In every taco from LOS TACOS No. 1 there is a bit of true Mexican culture and flavor.

The headline welcomes guests in Spanish, and then the description switches seamlessly to English. This is a fitting introduction to Los Tacos No. 1, the brainchild of partners from both sides of the Mexican-American border, who brought their authentic recipes to New York City. The illustrations between the headline and description represent the four fillings on their menu — beef, chicken, pork and cactus — and channel the restaurant’s lighthearted character. Click the link above and you’ll see that the icons animate when users scroll past them, one of many cool design features available through the  BentoBox website platform .

5. Ci Siamo

cisiamonyc.com

colloquial phrase; [CHee see-aH-mo]

We’ve made it! We’ve arrived! We’re here! 

Ci Siamo bridges the traditional with the contemporary, bringing live-fire cooking, housemade pasta, and a robust Italian wine list to the heart of Manhattan West.

Ci Siamo begins its description by translating its name into English, mimicking the style of a dictionary. It could have written something straightforward like, "Ci Siamo is Italian for 'We've made it! We've arrived! We're here!,' but the dictionary tactic adds a playful twist on top of that. This is important because Ci Siamo is not a strictly traditional brand; it's a brand that seeks to "bridge the traditional with the contemporary." Thanks to its description, that comes across loud and clear.

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6. Baba's

babashotchicken.com

DELICIOUS, AUTHENTIC NASHVILLE HOT CHICKEN

A chicken sandwich is only as good as its ingredients. That's why we import our spices and use top-quality ingredients in each of our Nashville Hot Chicken tenders, as well as our other offerings.

We pride ourselves in following the traditional Hot Chicken seasonings and processes used in Nashville, the birthplace of Hot Chicken. From dry spice to the classic hot oil, our Hot Chicken is as Nashvillian as it gets!

Baba's is a Nashville hot chicken chain that operates across California. In nearly every sentence, the headline and description on its homepage stress that it is  authentic  Nashville hot chicken — not some cheap West Coast imitation. When your restaurant has a well-defined value prop like this, the description is no place for subtlety; you want to hammer it clearly, concisely and continuously. Baba's does this with text and then validates it with loud, in-your-face, food photography.

itsteranga.com

AFRICAN SUPER FOOD

Here, ancient customs and future trends coexist, and the intricacies of African culture blend seamlessly together over an Ethiopian-brewed coffee, or a bowl of Senegalese black-eyed pea stew and a side of spicy Ghanaian plantains.

Inspired by our Co-Founder and Executive Chef Pierre Thiam’s mission to share African culture through food, Teranga reflects the depth, richness, and vibrancy of Africa’s diverse culinary traditions in a modern, fast-casual setting. 

WELCOME HOME.

After capturing attention with the headline, the first sentence of the description gives three examples of menu items, each one using a different African country in the adjective:  Ethiopian-brewed  coffee,  Senegalese  black-eyed pea stew,  Ghanaian  plantains. This is a deft illustration of the menu concept, which blends the diverse tastes of African cuisine into one cohesive experience. The description also ends with an inviting piece of copy, "Welcome Home," that stands out due to colorful text design.

8. PLNT Burger

plntburger.com

CHEF-CRAFTED FAST FOOD FOR THE FUTURE. 

PLNT Burger is dedicated to serving the best burgers on the planet, and for the planet!

Earlier, we mentioned the importance of separating "need to have" messages from "nice to have" messages. No restaurant on this list does that better than PLNT Burger, which communicates its value prop and establishes a cheeky brand voice in two short lines of copy (three if you count its name). Rather than bogging down its homepage with details and specifics, the plant-based fast-food chain shares a simple, compelling message about what it offers and why, along with a clever play on words. If users want to learn more, the  About page  linked in the main navigation has them covered.

9. The Green Room

tgrburbank.com

AN IMMERSIVE AND SEDUCTIVE COCKTAIL LOUNGE HIDDEN IN CASTAWAY BURBANK

The Green Room is fashioned after the green rooms in theaters and studios where performers relax when they are not on stage or camera. Everyone is a star at The Green Room with our immersive cocktail experiences, VIP service and the best views of the city.

The headline leads with descriptive words like "immersive," "seductive" and "hidden," which draw the user in and make them want to learn more. The description then delivers on that intrigue, explaining that the lounge is fashioned after backstage green rooms in theaters and on movie sets. That's a bold claim, but the full-bleed photos of the restaurant's sprawling views, along with the gold trims and fonts throughout the website, help position The Green Room as a place where regular people feel like stars.

10. She Wolf Bakery

shewolfbakery.com

Description Text  WE STARTED BAKING BREAD IN 2009 IN THE WOOD OVEN AT ROMAN'S.

After dinner service, we would make a fire. Early in the morning, our baker Austin Hall would come in, rake out the coals and bake bread for the day. This bread became a part of Roman’s at every service and staff meal. Soon the chefs at Marlow & Sons and Diner wanted to bring the same quality and integrity to the bread they served.

We expanded bread production to our own space in Greenpoint, and now supply the bread served at all of our restaurants and others around the city. You can also purchase loaves to take home at Marlow & Daughters, Stranger Wines, Roman’s, and Achilles Heel, as well as at nine NYC Greenmarkets. Why It's Effective

This description reads like an origin story, and it's written in a way that perfectly suits the brand. The first-person perspective, natural word choice and short, active sentences make it feel like the restaurant's owners are speaking directly to the audience through the screen. This mirrors the underlying theme of the story: that She Wolf Bakery grew through connection and community, and that you can trust every loaf to have a personal, artisan touch.

Restaurant Description Examples: No Headlines

The next 10 examples either don't use headlines or use them in straightforward ways (e.g., "About Us"). This more minimalist approach can still be effective, though it may require visuals to play a larger role capturing user attention.

11. Gramercy Tavern

gramercytavern.com

One of America's most beloved restaurants, Gramercy Tavern has welcomed guests to enjoy its contemporary American cuisine, warm hospitality, and unparalleled service in New York City for over two decades. Chef Michael Anthony's ever-evolving seasonal menu showcases the restaurant's relationships with local farms and purveyors.

Opened in 1994 by restaurateur Danny Meyer in a historic landmark building just north of Union Square, the restaurant has earned nine James Beard Awards, including "Outstanding Restaurant" and "Outstanding Chef in America.”

Upscale restaurants sometimes overwrite their descriptions, using flowery language that sounds posh and sophisticated but doesn't convey a clear point. Gramercy Tavern uses simple adjectives like  contemporary  American cuisine,  warm  hospitality and  unparalleled  service, which paint a clear picture while still projecting confidence and authority. The use of plain language in the first sentence primes readers for the second sentence, where the restaurant mentions its nine James Beard Awards in a way that feels matter-of-fact and informative, rather than arrogant and showy.

12. Big Gay Ice Cream

biggayicecream.com

Beginning as a seasonal food truck in 2009, Big Gay Ice Cream has been named best ice cream parlor—as well as best food truck—in the country, along with numerous other accolades. Now the company has multiple locations in New York City & Philadelphia.

Over the last 10 years, founders Douglas Quint & Bryan Petroff have published a critically acclaimed cookbook; appeared on numerous tv programs; put on Big Gay Ice Cream pop-ups at festivals around the world; collaborated with a variety of international brands; spoken at a variety of conferences & seminars, including giving a TED talk; & taken the ice cream truck on tours across the country.

Although the style — and the business — is very different, Big Gay Ice Cream employs a similar approach to Gramercy Tavern. The first paragraph of its description explains the brand's humble origins as a seasonal food truck, which primes readers for the second paragraph, where it mentions various milestones and accolades. This description approach and the web page design, which resembles a scrapbook with polaroids, positions Big Gay Ice Cream as it wants to be positioned: a global sensation that remembers where it came from.

13. the girl & the fig

thegirlandthefig.com

the girl & the fig is located in the beautiful Sonoma Plaza and features a wonderful antique bar with French aperitifs, unique and traditional cocktails, an award-winning Rhône-Alone wine list, a seasonal menu, cheese & charcuterie platters, outdoor garden patio seating & outdoor parklet seating.

This description is only one sentence, but it's packed with information. The writing is taut and straightforward, and the long list of restaurant features it lists — seven in total — projects a sense of understated confidence. Had the list of features been shorter, a one-sentence description like this might feel sparse. Instead, it feels quite inviting, like the restaurant believes so strongly in its offerings that it doesn't need to dress them in glittery language.

14. Death & Company

deathandcompany.com

It was thought that to drink alcohol was to live a life shadowed by death; that those who drank were keeping company with death. It's taken us nearly a century to restore flavor to the drink and class to the specialty cocktail. In our time, a night to celebrate life's simple pleasures with fine wine, exquisitely crafted cocktails, beautifully prepared food, and impeccable sipping spirits is a rare gift.

To those who shun the night, we tip our hat. To those who shine after dusk, we offer a warm embrace.

Welcome to the new golden age. Welcome to Death & Co.

Death & Company's description reads like a call to adventure. In fact, it also reads like one of the most famous ads of all-time, Apple's " Here's to the Crazy Ones ," which didn't so much sell computers as it sold the brand's DNA. In similar fashion, this description is a brooding ode to alcohol and nightlife; to people who order cabs out instead of in at 1:00 AM. This is an effective approach for a cocktail lounge, which relies more on emotional than logical motivators to get people through the door.

15. The Wilder

intothewilder.com

I am a feeling. Like swimming under a waterfall, biting into a juicy peach, dancing till the sun comes up, holding hands with someone you love, having that third mezcal, eating berries fresh from the vine, watching your favorite film, a blue sky without a cloud in sight. I am everything that makes you remember you are alive and life is beautiful.

Even more than Death & Co., this description uses literary prose to read like a call to adventure. It is extremely avant-garde, framed like a letter from The Wilder to the reader, comparing the upscale lounge to a list of free-spirited actions like "dancing till the sun comes up" and "eating berries fresh from the vine." This approach would fall flat for many restaurants, but for a South Florida nightlife spot that appeals to guests through emotion more than reason, it's spot on. A plain description of the lounge space is the approach that would fall flat.

suerteatx.com

Located in the heart of East Austin, Suerte is an award-winning restaurant driven by a passion for masa, an ingredient at the heart of Mexican cooking. Chef Fermin and his team curate a seasonally driven menu with an emphasis on bringing together traditional Mexican cooking techniques with local Texas ingredients to create a unique and exciting dining experience. 

Our bar offers some of Mexico's most unique agave and succulent spirits state-side, as well as highlighting a rotating selection of natural wines and craft cocktails.

The first sentence of the description clearly outlines something unique about the restaurant: its passion for masa. This establishes the "traditional" component of Suerte's menu, which blends traditional Mexican cooking with local Texas ingredients. The photo beside the description further amplifies this idea, showcasing traditional Mexican art while establishing a bright, exuberant visual style for the brand. When image and text work in harmony like this, it can be extremely powerful.

17. Craigie on Main

craigieonmain.com

“It all starts with ingredients. We’ve been working closely with farmers and fishermen since 2002. They are the first people I talk to each morning!

Many of my culinary values are the same ones you’ll find in 90% of the world’s grandmothers.

That said, you’ll find me on the leading edge of most culinary techniques and ingredients.

I work to match just the right food and wine combinations (sometimes they are unexpected)

I serve nothing that is not in season.

I look forward to hosting you soon."

Craigie on Main's entire description is a quote from chef/owner Tony Maws. Speaking directly to the reader, Maws describes his homestyle cooking approach, explaining that farmers and fishermen are the first people he talks to each morning and comparing his culinary values to "90% of the world's grandmothers." The use of first-person perspective helps the quote come across as sincere and authentic, positioning the brand as a restaurant run by artisans.

18. Rosalie Italian Soul

rosalieitaliansoul.com

“At Rosalie, the world feels like a bubbling Italian Restaurant, with an infinite strand of pasta connecting everything and everyone.”

– Chris Cosentino –

Rather than a long, manifesto-style pull quote, Rosalie's homepage features a short, abstract thought from chef/owner Chris Cosentino. The quote does provide some important information — establishing Rosalie as a "bubbling Italian restaurant" — but more than that, it adds a dash of whimsy to Rosalie's brand. It's a captivating description that makes users want to learn more, which they can do by clicking "About Us" for a longer description or coming in to experience the space firsthand.

19. Crown Shy

crownshy.nyc

Crown Shy is the first solo project of Chef James Kent and Restaurateur Jeff Katz. Inspired by James’ upbringing in downtown New York and his experience leading the city’s most celebrated kitchens, Crown Shy is a neighborhood seasonal restaurant elevated by fine dining training and technique.

Located on the ground floor of Art Deco masterpiece 70 Pine Street, the dining room and bar occupy a series of rooms with floor to 16-foot-ceiling windows leading to an open kitchen.

The food at Crown Shy is rooted in European technique but draws inspiration from around the world, primarily the flavors from our childhoods, traveling, and the diverse cuisine in New York City.

Before users even start reading, the Art Deco-inspired logo and background image establish a refined mood. The description text delivers on that mood with upscale words such as "celebrated," "elevated" and "masterpiece." Supplementing all of this, the page lists more than 20 staff members, including management, kitchen and dining room. This decision — and the decision to use the same text design as the rest of the description — shows that the restaurant's people are central to its identity, which positions the brand as personal and human.

An austere experience, where richness is lived through the purity of ingredients, the combination of extraordinary flavors, and the story of their origin.

From the Imaginarium of Carlos Gaytán, the first Latin American who earned a Michelin Star.

This example is best viewed at the link above, where you can see how it uses scrolling to break up the text. Although readers only see one piece of the description at a time, it reads like one cohesive thought. This unique approach to telling the restaurant's story primes users for what Tzuco promises: an imaginative meal where the story of the food is central to the experience. Describing Chef Gaytán's mind as an "Imaginarium" adds even more whimsy and intrigue. 

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• Feb 5, 2021

Description Practice: Coffee Shop

With it being February and still too cold to do any exploring outside, for this bit of description practice, I decided to visit a new, interesting indoor place. One where I could still find a lot to describe without having to freeze my butt off in the process.

I discovered a coffee shop that isn’t like your run of the mill Starbucks. No, this one is much more unique and memorable. I won’t go into too much detail here, since that is what the rest of this post is for, so let’s get into my observations of the place on a chilly January afternoon.

My Process for These

If you are new here, how these description practices work is that I go someplace and just sit and write about what I see, hear, and smell. I pick different aspects of the environment and try to write a paragraph on them. I don’t look up words in a thesaurus and I don’t do any editing. I then share what I wrote in the next section.

Once I’ve let the descriptions sit for a day or two, I rewrite them to try and improve them while making the paragraphs more coherent. In the second version, the idea is to make something that could feasibly be used in a story, while the first version is all about collecting as many details as I can.

Lastly, even though this is actually the first thing you see in the article, I share a picture of the place I described. There are two reasons for this. One, it lets you see what I saw, and two, it allows you to attempt the description yourself.

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

My Observations

The smell of coffee permeates the air, making the room feel warm and cozy in the way that coffee shops always seem to. Even those that don’t have their own cups can enjoy the atmosphere of the shop. The outside world ceases to exist and time slows inside the shop. It feels as though one has entered another world.

The groupings of tables and chairs are all unique. None of the multitudes of chairs match the few tables. Most of the chairs don’t even match each other. The mismatched chaos adds to the room.

Random bits of furniture, knick-knacks, and oddities filled the room, all for sale. An old cello, a little rough around the edges, but still clean, leans in the corner. In another, a nook has been assembled around a coffee table missing paint in several spots. A sofa from another era now sits next to a well-worn loveseat from no more than ten years ago. A few pillows, each in different colors, shapes, and sizes adorn the seats. Stood against another wall is a dressmaker’s mannequin wearing a frilly pink nightgown from a decade best forgotten. Next to it is a wooden display case showing off a collection of jewelry. The accessories are mostly silver with polished bits of turquoise and plenty of beads.

A brickwork archway leads away from the coffee shop portion of the shop and grants people access to rooms overflowing with antiques and homemade décor. The aged red bricks have faded over the years. The red has lost some of its intensity and creeps closer and closer to the white splotches on the clay.

Over the counter, a collection of dollar bills hang from strings from the corrugated ceiling. The bills dance in the breeze caused by a nearby fan. The ceiling itself is the color of rust and adds to the earth tones of the room.

Country music plays softly in the background. At least, as softly as country music can play. The music matches the small town, country feel of the shop.

Guests either sit in groups and enjoy good conversations with one another, or they sit by themselves and enjoy the momentary escape from the outside world.

My Thoughts So Far

This is just a small sample of some of the things I could have described in this shop. As I mentioned, the place is full of all kinds of antiques and what not for visitors to purchase.

And that’s just the front/main room!

I could have kept the descriptions going for pages and pages. I could do one for each room! As it was, my chicken-scratch handwriting had already filled three pages in my notebook so I figured it was time to wrap things up.

On a side note, don’t you just hate when you think you’ve gotten a lot of writing done and then you type it up and it turns out it wasn’t much at all?

Some of the paragraphs are decently sized. The one about the various items around the room is too large for my liking. I think I’d be better off breaking it up into paragraphs each focused on the different aspects in the room. This does mean I’ll have to add a little more to some of the descriptions.

I wish I could have done more with the brick archway. I do enjoy the look of aged bricks, but my description there just feels lackluster to me. I’m not sure what more I could say though to add to it.

Anyway, that’s step one. Now let’s see what I can turn this into.

Attempt Number 2

Country music played in the background as the scent of coffee wafted through the air. The music was quiet, well as quiet as the genre allowed, yet didn’t detract from the atmosphere of the room. In fact, it added to it. The whole establishment gave off a rustic, small-town feel.

Above the front counter, dollar bills hung from thin, white twine taped to the rusty corrugated metal of the ceiling. The bills fluttered in the breeze of a nearby fan and caught the eye of all who entered. A few of the bills had been written on in markers, but the writing was impossible to make out from the distance.

The groupings of tables and chairs were all unique. None of the many chairs matched their tables or even each other. This extra bit of mismatched chaos added even more to the feel of the room. The guests either sat in small groups to enjoy one another’s company, or they sat by themselves and simply enjoy the momentary escape from the outside world. It’s one of the best parts of coffee shops, that escape. A person doesn’t even have to have a coffee to enjoy the small little world where time slows and troubles can be forgotten.

The ultimate addition to the coffee shop is the array of assorted furniture, knick-knacks, and oddities that fill the room. Not only does the store sell warm drinks and pastries, it sells these collectibles.

Everything is for sale here.

Along one wall, leaning against a post, stands an old black cello, a little rough around the edges, but still presentable. It doesn’t look like an item that most people would jump for, but it could still surprise its musician.

Close by, along a protruding wall, a nook has been assembled with a pair of loveseats, a couch, and a coffee table. The knee-high table is missing paint in several places. The couch is from another era entirely. The loveseats are newer, no older than ten years, and look far more worn than the sofa. A collection of pillows in various sizes, shapes, and colors adorn the seats.

Stood against another wall, looking out the front window is a dressmaker's mannequin. A frilly pink nightgown from a decade best left forgotten covers its body. Next to the mannequin is a wood and glass display case that contains all sorts of locally made jewelry. The items are mostly silver with polished turquoise and lots of colorful beads.

If that weren’t enough for shoppers, an aged brick archway leads to more rooms filled with even more items. Like the storefront, these back rooms are overflowing with antiques and even have some homemade items for sale. This way, when the coffee has been finished, customers can rummage through the back rooms and find something unique to take home with them.

My Final Thoughts

This time around I broke up the descriptions of the different items in the store into their own paragraphs, which meant I had to expand on the details a little more. I also condensed the description of the brick archway, because it really isn’t as important as I think it is.

As is usually the case with the second draft, I like how the paragraphs flow together better. I tried to create the flow of entering the shop, ordering a drink, and then sitting at a table and examining the chaotic room.

As with all of the other description practices, it was nice to get out of the house for a little while and just take in the sights. I do wish I could have gone someplace outside, but it is just too cold for that right now. Boy, do I miss summer and all of its warmth and sense of adventure.

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• First Draft

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Last updated on Feb 14, 2023

10 Types of Creative Writing (with Examples You’ll Love)

A lot falls under the term ‘creative writing’: poetry, short fiction, plays, novels, personal essays, and songs, to name just a few. By virtue of the creativity that characterizes it, creative writing is an extremely versatile art. So instead of defining what creative writing is , it may be easier to understand what it does by looking at examples that demonstrate the sheer range of styles and genres under its vast umbrella.

To that end, we’ve collected a non-exhaustive list of works across multiple formats that have inspired the writers here at Reedsy. With 20 different works to explore, we hope they will inspire you, too. 

People have been writing creatively for almost as long as we have been able to hold pens. Just think of long-form epic poems like The Odyssey or, later, the Cantar de Mio Cid — some of the earliest recorded writings of their kind. 

Poetry is also a great place to start if you want to dip your own pen into the inkwell of creative writing. It can be as short or long as you want (you don’t have to write an epic of Homeric proportions), encourages you to build your observation skills, and often speaks from a single point of view . 

Here are a few examples:

“Ozymandias” by Percy Bysshe Shelley

Nothing beside remains. Round the decay Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare The lone and level sands stretch far away.

This classic poem by Romantic poet Percy Shelley (also known as Mary Shelley’s husband) is all about legacy. What do we leave behind? How will we be remembered? The great king Ozymandias built himself a massive statue, proclaiming his might, but the irony is that his statue doesn’t survive the ravages of time. By framing this poem as told to him by a “traveller from an antique land,” Shelley effectively turns this into a story. Along with the careful use of juxtaposition to create irony, this poem accomplishes a lot in just a few lines. 

“Trying to Raise the Dead” by Dorianne Laux

 A direction. An object. My love, it needs a place to rest. Say anything. I’m listening. I’m ready to believe. Even lies, I don’t care.

Poetry is cherished for its ability to evoke strong emotions from the reader using very few words which is exactly what Dorianne Laux does in “ Trying to Raise the Dead .” With vivid imagery that underscores the painful yearning of the narrator, she transports us to a private nighttime scene as the narrator sneaks away from a party to pray to someone they’ve lost. We ache for their loss and how badly they want their lost loved one to acknowledge them in some way. It’s truly a masterclass on how writing can be used to portray emotions. 

If you find yourself inspired to try out some poetry — and maybe even get it published — check out these poetry layouts that can elevate your verse!

Song Lyrics

Poetry’s closely related cousin, song lyrics are another great way to flex your creative writing muscles. You not only have to find the perfect rhyme scheme but also match it to the rhythm of the music. This can be a great challenge for an experienced poet or the musically inclined. 

To see how music can add something extra to your poetry, check out these two examples:

“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen

 You say I took the name in vain I don't even know the name But if I did, well, really, what's it to ya? There's a blaze of light in every word It doesn't matter which you heard The holy or the broken Hallelujah 

Metaphors are commonplace in almost every kind of creative writing, but will often take center stage in shorter works like poetry and songs. At the slightest mention, they invite the listener to bring their emotional or cultural experience to the piece, allowing the writer to express more with fewer words while also giving it a deeper meaning. If a whole song is couched in metaphor, you might even be able to find multiple meanings to it, like in Leonard Cohen’s “ Hallelujah .” While Cohen’s Biblical references create a song that, on the surface, seems like it’s about a struggle with religion, the ambiguity of the lyrics has allowed it to be seen as a song about a complicated romantic relationship. 

“I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie

 ​​If Heaven and Hell decide that they both are satisfied Illuminate the no's on their vacancy signs If there's no one beside you when your soul embarks Then I'll follow you into the dark

You can think of song lyrics as poetry set to music. They manage to do many of the same things their literary counterparts do — including tugging on your heartstrings. Death Cab for Cutie’s incredibly popular indie rock ballad is about the singer’s deep devotion to his lover. While some might find the song a bit too dark and macabre, its melancholy tune and poignant lyrics remind us that love can endure beyond death.

Plays and Screenplays

From the short form of poetry, we move into the world of drama — also known as the play. This form is as old as the poem, stretching back to the works of ancient Greek playwrights like Sophocles, who adapted the myths of their day into dramatic form. The stage play (and the more modern screenplay) gives the words on the page a literal human voice, bringing life to a story and its characters entirely through dialogue. 

Interested to see what that looks like? Take a look at these examples:

All My Sons by Arthur Miller

“I know you're no worse than most men but I thought you were better. I never saw you as a man. I saw you as my father.” 

Arthur Miller acts as a bridge between the classic and the new, creating 20th century tragedies that take place in living rooms and backyard instead of royal courts, so we had to include his breakout hit on this list. Set in the backyard of an all-American family in the summer of 1946, this tragedy manages to communicate family tensions in an unimaginable scale, building up to an intense climax reminiscent of classical drama. 

💡 Read more about Arthur Miller and classical influences in our breakdown of Freytag’s pyramid . 

“Everything is Fine” by Michael Schur ( The Good Place )

“Well, then this system sucks. What...one in a million gets to live in paradise and everyone else is tortured for eternity? Come on! I mean, I wasn't freaking Gandhi, but I was okay. I was a medium person. I should get to spend eternity in a medium place! Like Cincinnati. Everyone who wasn't perfect but wasn't terrible should get to spend eternity in Cincinnati.” 

A screenplay, especially a TV pilot, is like a mini-play, but with the extra job of convincing an audience that they want to watch a hundred more episodes of the show. Blending moral philosophy with comedy, The Good Place is a fun hang-out show set in the afterlife that asks some big questions about what it means to be good. 

It follows Eleanor Shellstrop, an incredibly imperfect woman from Arizona who wakes up in ‘The Good Place’ and realizes that there’s been a cosmic mixup. Determined not to lose her place in paradise, she recruits her “soulmate,” a former ethics professor, to teach her philosophy with the hope that she can learn to be a good person and keep up her charade of being an upstanding citizen. The pilot does a superb job of setting up the stakes, the story, and the characters, while smuggling in deep philosophical ideas.

Personal essays

Our first foray into nonfiction on this list is the personal essay. As its name suggests, these stories are in some way autobiographical — concerned with the author’s life and experiences. But don’t be fooled by the realistic component. These essays can take any shape or form, from comics to diary entries to recipes and anything else you can imagine. Typically zeroing in on a single issue, they allow you to explore your life and prove that the personal can be universal.

Here are a couple of fantastic examples:

“On Selling Your First Novel After 11 Years” by Min Jin Lee (Literary Hub)

There was so much to learn and practice, but I began to see the prose in verse and the verse in prose. Patterns surfaced in poems, stories, and plays. There was music in sentences and paragraphs. I could hear the silences in a sentence. All this schooling was like getting x-ray vision and animal-like hearing. 

This deeply honest personal essay by Pachinko author Min Jin Lee is an account of her eleven-year struggle to publish her first novel . Like all good writing, it is intensely focused on personal emotional details. While grounded in the specifics of the author's personal journey, it embodies an experience that is absolutely universal: that of difficulty and adversity met by eventual success. 

“A Cyclist on the English Landscape” by Roff Smith (New York Times)

These images, though, aren’t meant to be about me. They’re meant to represent a cyclist on the landscape, anybody — you, perhaps. 

Roff Smith’s gorgeous photo essay for the NYT is a testament to the power of creatively combining visuals with text. Here, photographs of Smith atop a bike are far from simply ornamental. They’re integral to the ruminative mood of the essay, as essential as the writing. Though Smith places his work at the crosscurrents of various aesthetic influences (such as the painter Edward Hopper), what stands out the most in this taciturn, thoughtful piece of writing is his use of the second person to address the reader directly. Suddenly, the writer steps out of the body of the essay and makes eye contact with the reader. The reader is now part of the story as a second character, finally entering the picture.

Short Fiction

The short story is the happy medium of fiction writing. These bite-sized narratives can be devoured in a single sitting and still leave you reeling. Sometimes viewed as a stepping stone to novel writing, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Short story writing is an art all its own. The limited length means every word counts and there’s no better way to see that than with these two examples:

“An MFA Story” by Paul Dalla Rosa (Electric Literature)

At Starbucks, I remembered a reading Zhen had given, a reading organized by the program’s faculty. I had not wanted to go but did. In the bar, he read, "I wrote this in a Starbucks in Shanghai. On the bank of the Huangpu." It wasn’t an aside or introduction. It was two lines of the poem. I was in a Starbucks and I wasn’t writing any poems. I wasn’t writing anything. 

This short story is a delightfully metafictional tale about the struggles of being a writer in New York. From paying the bills to facing criticism in a writing workshop and envying more productive writers, Paul Dalla Rosa’s story is a clever satire of the tribulations involved in the writing profession, and all the contradictions embodied by systemic creativity (as famously laid out in Mark McGurl’s The Program Era ). What’s more, this story is an excellent example of something that often happens in creative writing: a writer casting light on the private thoughts or moments of doubt we don’t admit to or openly talk about. 

“Flowering Walrus” by Scott Skinner (Reedsy)

I tell him they’d been there a month at least, and he looks concerned. He has my tongue on a tissue paper and is gripping its sides with his pointer and thumb. My tongue has never spent much time outside of my mouth, and I imagine it as a walrus basking in the rays of the dental light. My walrus is not well. 

A winner of Reedsy’s weekly Prompts writing contest, ‘ Flowering Walrus ’ is a story that balances the trivial and the serious well. In the pauses between its excellent, natural dialogue , the story manages to scatter the fear and sadness of bad medical news, as the protagonist hides his worries from his wife and daughter. Rich in subtext, these silences grow and resonate with the readers.

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Perhaps the thing that first comes to mind when talking about creative writing, novels are a form of fiction that many people know and love but writers sometimes find intimidating. The good news is that novels are nothing but one word put after another, like any other piece of writing, but expanded and put into a flowing narrative. Piece of cake, right?

To get an idea of the format’s breadth of scope, take a look at these two (very different) satirical novels: 

Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata

I wished I was back in the convenience store where I was valued as a working member of staff and things weren’t as complicated as this. Once we donned our uniforms, we were all equals regardless of gender, age, or nationality — all simply store workers. 

Keiko, a thirty-six-year-old convenience store employee, finds comfort and happiness in the strict, uneventful routine of the shop’s daily operations. A funny, satirical, but simultaneously unnerving examination of the social structures we take for granted, Sayaka Murata’s Convenience Store Woman is deeply original and lingers with the reader long after they’ve put it down.

Erasure by Percival Everett

The hard, gritty truth of the matter is that I hardly ever think about race. Those times when I did think about it a lot I did so because of my guilt for not thinking about it.  

Erasure is a truly accomplished satire of the publishing industry’s tendency to essentialize African American authors and their writing. Everett’s protagonist is a writer whose work doesn’t fit with what publishers expect from him — work that describes the “African American experience” — so he writes a parody novel about life in the ghetto. The publishers go crazy for it and, to the protagonist’s horror, it becomes the next big thing. This sophisticated novel is both ironic and tender, leaving its readers with much food for thought.

Creative Nonfiction

Creative nonfiction is pretty broad: it applies to anything that does not claim to be fictional (although the rise of autofiction has definitely blurred the boundaries between fiction and nonfiction). It encompasses everything from personal essays and memoirs to humor writing, and they range in length from blog posts to full-length books. The defining characteristic of this massive genre is that it takes the world or the author’s experience and turns it into a narrative that a reader can follow along with.

Here, we want to focus on novel-length works that dig deep into their respective topics. While very different, these two examples truly show the breadth and depth of possibility of creative nonfiction:

Men We Reaped by Jesmyn Ward

Men’s bodies litter my family history. The pain of the women they left behind pulls them from the beyond, makes them appear as ghosts. In death, they transcend the circumstances of this place that I love and hate all at once and become supernatural. 

Writer Jesmyn Ward recounts the deaths of five men from her rural Mississippi community in as many years. In her award-winning memoir , she delves into the lives of the friends and family she lost and tries to find some sense among the tragedy. Working backwards across five years, she questions why this had to happen over and over again, and slowly unveils the long history of racism and poverty that rules rural Black communities. Moving and emotionally raw, Men We Reaped is an indictment of a cruel system and the story of a woman's grief and rage as she tries to navigate it.

Cork Dork by Bianca Bosker

He believed that wine could reshape someone’s life. That’s why he preferred buying bottles to splurging on sweaters. Sweaters were things. Bottles of wine, said Morgan, “are ways that my humanity will be changed.” 

In this work of immersive journalism , Bianca Bosker leaves behind her life as a tech journalist to explore the world of wine. Becoming a “cork dork” takes her everywhere from New York’s most refined restaurants to science labs while she learns what it takes to be a sommelier and a true wine obsessive. This funny and entertaining trip through the past and present of wine-making and tasting is sure to leave you better informed and wishing you, too, could leave your life behind for one devoted to wine. 

Illustrated Narratives (Comics, graphic novels)

Once relegated to the “funny pages”, the past forty years of comics history have proven it to be a serious medium. Comics have transformed from the early days of Jack Kirby’s superheroes into a medium where almost every genre is represented. Humorous one-shots in the Sunday papers stand alongside illustrated memoirs, horror, fantasy, and just about anything else you can imagine. This type of visual storytelling lets the writer and artist get creative with perspective, tone, and so much more. For two very different, though equally entertaining, examples, check these out:

Calvin & Hobbes by Bill Watterson

"Life is like topography, Hobbes. There are summits of happiness and success, flat stretches of boring routine and valleys of frustration and failure." 

This beloved comic strip follows Calvin, a rambunctious six-year-old boy, and his stuffed tiger/imaginary friend, Hobbes. They get into all kinds of hijinks at school and at home, and muse on the world in the way only a six-year-old and an anthropomorphic tiger can. As laugh-out-loud funny as it is, Calvin & Hobbes ’ popularity persists as much for its whimsy as its use of humor to comment on life, childhood, adulthood, and everything in between. 

From Hell by Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell 

"I shall tell you where we are. We're in the most extreme and utter region of the human mind. A dim, subconscious underworld. A radiant abyss where men meet themselves. Hell, Netley. We're in Hell." 

Comics aren't just the realm of superheroes and one-joke strips, as Alan Moore proves in this serialized graphic novel released between 1989 and 1998. A meticulously researched alternative history of Victorian London’s Ripper killings, this macabre story pulls no punches. Fact and fiction blend into a world where the Royal Family is involved in a dark conspiracy and Freemasons lurk on the sidelines. It’s a surreal mad-cap adventure that’s unsettling in the best way possible. 

Video Games and RPGs

Probably the least expected entry on this list, we thought that video games and RPGs also deserved a mention — and some well-earned recognition for the intricate storytelling that goes into creating them. 

Essentially gamified adventure stories, without attention to plot, characters, and a narrative arc, these games would lose a lot of their charm, so let’s look at two examples where the creative writing really shines through: 

80 Days by inkle studios

"It was a triumph of invention over nature, and will almost certainly disappear into the dust once more in the next fifty years." 

Named Time Magazine ’s game of the year in 2014, this narrative adventure is based on Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne. The player is cast as the novel’s narrator, Passpartout, and tasked with circumnavigating the globe in service of their employer, Phileas Fogg. Set in an alternate steampunk Victorian era, the game uses its globe-trotting to comment on the colonialist fantasies inherent in the original novel and its time period. On a storytelling level, the choose-your-own-adventure style means no two players’ journeys will be the same. This innovative approach to a classic novel shows the potential of video games as a storytelling medium, truly making the player part of the story. 

What Remains of Edith Finch by Giant Sparrow

"If we lived forever, maybe we'd have time to understand things. But as it is, I think the best we can do is try to open our eyes, and appreciate how strange and brief all of this is." 

This video game casts the player as 17-year-old Edith Finch. Returning to her family’s home on an island in the Pacific northwest, Edith explores the vast house and tries to figure out why she’s the only one of her family left alive. The story of each family member is revealed as you make your way through the house, slowly unpacking the tragic fate of the Finches. Eerie and immersive, this first-person exploration game uses the medium to tell a series of truly unique tales. 

Fun and breezy on the surface, humor is often recognized as one of the trickiest forms of creative writing. After all, while you can see the artistic value in a piece of prose that you don’t necessarily enjoy, if a joke isn’t funny, you could say that it’s objectively failed.

With that said, it’s far from an impossible task, and many have succeeded in bringing smiles to their readers’ faces through their writing. Here are two examples:

‘How You Hope Your Extended Family Will React When You Explain Your Job to Them’ by Mike Lacher (McSweeney’s Internet Tendency)

“Is it true you don’t have desks?” your grandmother will ask. You will nod again and crack open a can of Country Time Lemonade. “My stars,” she will say, “it must be so wonderful to not have a traditional office and instead share a bistro-esque coworking space.” 

Satire and parody make up a whole subgenre of creative writing, and websites like McSweeney’s Internet Tendency and The Onion consistently hit the mark with their parodies of magazine publishing and news media. This particular example finds humor in the divide between traditional family expectations and contemporary, ‘trendy’ work cultures. Playing on the inherent silliness of today’s tech-forward middle-class jobs, this witty piece imagines a scenario where the writer’s family fully understands what they do — and are enthralled to hear more. “‘Now is it true,’ your uncle will whisper, ‘that you’ve got a potential investment from one of the founders of I Can Haz Cheezburger?’”

‘Not a Foodie’ by Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell (Electric Literature)

I’m not a foodie, I never have been, and I know, in my heart, I never will be. 

Highlighting what she sees as an unbearable social obsession with food , in this comic Hilary Fitzgerald Campbell takes a hilarious stand against the importance of food. From the writer’s courageous thesis (“I think there are more exciting things to talk about, and focus on in life, than what’s for dinner”) to the amusing appearance of family members and the narrator’s partner, ‘Not a Foodie’ demonstrates that even a seemingly mundane pet peeve can be approached creatively — and even reveal something profound about life.

We hope this list inspires you with your own writing. If there’s one thing you take away from this post, let it be that there is no limit to what you can write about or how you can write about it. 

In the next part of this guide, we'll drill down into the fascinating world of creative nonfiction.

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What is Creative Writing? A Key Piece of the Writer’s Toolbox

Not all writing is the same and there’s a type of writing that has the ability to transport, teach, and inspire others like no other.

Creative writing stands out due to its unique approach and focus on imagination. Here’s how to get started and grow as you explore the broad and beautiful world of creative writing!

What is Creative Writing?

Creative writing is a form of writing that extends beyond the bounds of regular professional, journalistic, academic, or technical forms of literature. It is characterized by its emphasis on narrative craft, character development, and the use of literary tropes or poetic techniques to express ideas in an original and imaginative way.

Creative writing can take on various forms such as:

• short stories
• screenplays

It’s a way for writers to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas in a creative, often symbolic, way . It’s about using the power of words to transport readers into a world created by the writer.

5 Key Characteristics of Creative Writing

Creative writing is marked by several defining characteristics, each working to create a distinct form of expression:

1. Imagination and Creativity: Creative writing is all about harnessing your creativity and imagination to create an engaging and compelling piece of work. It allows writers to explore different scenarios, characters, and worlds that may not exist in reality.

2. Emotional Engagement: Creative writing often evokes strong emotions in the reader. It aims to make the reader feel something — whether it’s happiness, sorrow, excitement, or fear.

3. Originality: Creative writing values originality. It’s about presenting familiar things in new ways or exploring ideas that are less conventional.

4. Use of Literary Devices: Creative writing frequently employs literary devices such as metaphors, similes, personification, and others to enrich the text and convey meanings in a more subtle, layered manner.

5. Focus on Aesthetics: The beauty of language and the way words flow together is important in creative writing. The aim is to create a piece that’s not just interesting to read, but also beautiful to hear when read aloud.

Remember, creative writing is not just about producing a work of art. It’s also a means of self-expression and a way to share your perspective with the world. Whether you’re considering it as a hobby or contemplating a career in it, understanding the nature and characteristics of creative writing can help you hone your skills and create more engaging pieces .

For more insights into creative writing, check out our articles on creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree and is a degree in creative writing worth it .

Styles of Creative Writing

To fully understand creative writing , you must be aware of the various styles involved. Creative writing explores a multitude of genres, each with its own unique characteristics and techniques.

Poetry is a form of creative writing that uses expressive language to evoke emotions and ideas. Poets often employ rhythm, rhyme, and other poetic devices to create pieces that are deeply personal and impactful. Poems can vary greatly in length, style, and subject matter, making this a versatile and dynamic form of creative writing.

Short Stories

Short stories are another common style of creative writing. These are brief narratives that typically revolve around a single event or idea. Despite their length, short stories can provide a powerful punch, using precise language and tight narrative structures to convey a complete story in a limited space.

Novels represent a longer form of narrative creative writing. They usually involve complex plots, multiple characters, and various themes. Writing a novel requires a significant investment of time and effort; however, the result can be a rich and immersive reading experience.

Screenplays

Screenplays are written works intended for the screen, be it television, film, or online platforms. They require a specific format, incorporating dialogue and visual descriptions to guide the production process. Screenwriters must also consider the practical aspects of filmmaking, making this an intricate and specialized form of creative writing.

If you’re interested in this style, understanding creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree can provide useful insights.

Writing for the theater is another specialized form of creative writing. Plays, like screenplays, combine dialogue and action, but they also require an understanding of the unique dynamics of the theatrical stage. Playwrights must think about the live audience and the physical space of the theater when crafting their works.

Each of these styles offers unique opportunities for creativity and expression. Whether you’re drawn to the concise power of poetry, the detailed storytelling of novels, or the visual language of screenplays and plays, there’s a form of creative writing that will suit your artistic voice. The key is to explore, experiment, and find the style that resonates with you.

For those looking to spark their creativity, our article on creative writing prompts offers a wealth of ideas to get you started.

Importance of Creative Writing

Understanding what is creative writing involves recognizing its value and significance. Engaging in creative writing can provide numerous benefits – let’s take a closer look.

Developing Creativity and Imagination

Creative writing serves as a fertile ground for nurturing creativity and imagination. It encourages you to think outside the box, explore different perspectives, and create unique and original content. This leads to improved problem-solving skills and a broader worldview , both of which can be beneficial in various aspects of life.

Through creative writing, one can build entire worlds, create characters, and weave complex narratives, all of which are products of a creative mind and vivid imagination. This can be especially beneficial for those seeking creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Enhancing Communication Skills

Creative writing can also play a crucial role in honing communication skills. It demands clarity, precision, and a strong command of language. This helps to improve your vocabulary, grammar, and syntax, making it easier to express thoughts and ideas effectively .

Moreover, creative writing encourages empathy as you often need to portray a variety of characters from different backgrounds and perspectives. This leads to a better understanding of people and improved interpersonal communication skills.

Exploring Emotions and Ideas

One of the most profound aspects of creative writing is its ability to provide a safe space for exploring emotions and ideas. It serves as an outlet for thoughts and feelings , allowing you to express yourself in ways that might not be possible in everyday conversation.

Writing can be therapeutic, helping you process complex emotions, navigate difficult life events, and gain insight into your own experiences and perceptions. It can also be a means of self-discovery , helping you to understand yourself and the world around you better.

So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, the benefits of creative writing are vast and varied. For those interested in developing their creative writing skills, check out our articles on creative writing prompts and how to teach creative writing . If you’re considering a career in this field, you might find our article on is a degree in creative writing worth it helpful.

4 Steps to Start Creative Writing

Creative writing can seem daunting to beginners, but with the right approach, anyone can start their journey into this creative field. Here are some steps to help you start creative writing .

1. Finding Inspiration

The first step in creative writing is finding inspiration . Inspiration can come from anywhere and anything. Observe the world around you, listen to conversations, explore different cultures, and delve into various topics of interest.

Reading widely can also be a significant source of inspiration. Read different types of books, articles, and blogs. Discover what resonates with you and sparks your imagination.

For structured creative prompts, visit our list of creative writing prompts to get your creative juices flowing.

Editor’s Note : When something excites or interests you, stop and take note – it could be the inspiration for your next creative writing piece.

2. Planning Your Piece

Once you have an idea, the next step is to plan your piece . Start by outlining:

• the main points

Remember, this can serve as a roadmap to guide your writing process. A plan doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s a flexible guideline that can be adjusted as you delve deeper into your writing. The primary purpose is to provide direction and prevent writer’s block.

3. Writing Your First Draft

After planning your piece, you can start writing your first draft . This is where you give life to your ideas and breathe life into your characters.

Don’t worry about making it perfect in the first go. The first draft is about getting your ideas down on paper . You can always refine and polish your work later. And if you don’t have a great place to write that first draft, consider a journal for writing .

4. Editing and Revising Your Work

The final step in the creative writing process is editing and revising your work . This is where you fine-tune your piece, correct grammatical errors, and improve sentence structure and flow.

Editing is also an opportunity to enhance your storytelling . You can add more descriptive details, develop your characters further, and make sure your plot is engaging and coherent.

Remember, writing is a craft that improves with practice . Don’t be discouraged if your first few pieces don’t meet your expectations. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the creative process.

For more insights on creative writing, check out our articles on how to teach creative writing or creative writing activities for kids.

Tips to Improve Creative Writing Skills

Understanding what is creative writing is the first step. But how can one improve their creative writing skills? Here are some tips that can help.

Read Widely

Reading is a vital part of becoming a better writer. By immersing oneself in a variety of genres, styles, and authors, one can gain a richer understanding of language and storytelling techniques . Different authors have unique voices and methods of telling stories, which can serve as inspiration for your own work. So, read widely and frequently!

Practice Regularly

Like any skill, creative writing improves with practice. Consistently writing — whether it be daily, weekly, or monthly — helps develop your writing style and voice . Using creative writing prompts can be a fun way to stimulate your imagination and get the words flowing.

Attend Writing Workshops and Courses

Formal education such as workshops and courses can offer structured learning and expert guidance. These can provide invaluable insights into the world of creative writing, from understanding plot development to character creation. If you’re wondering is a degree in creative writing worth it, these classes can also give you a taste of what studying creative writing at a higher level might look like .

Joining Writing Groups and Communities

Being part of a writing community can provide motivation, constructive feedback, and a sense of camaraderie. These groups often hold regular meetings where members share their work and give each other feedback. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with others who share your passion for writing.

Seeking Feedback on Your Work

Feedback is a crucial part of improving as a writer. It offers a fresh perspective on your work, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Whether it’s from a writing group, a mentor, or even friends and family, constructive criticism can help refine your writing .

Start Creative Writing Today!

Remember, becoming a proficient writer takes time and patience. So, don’t be discouraged by initial challenges. Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process. Who knows, your passion for creative writing might even lead to creative writing jobs and what you can do with a creative writing degree .

Happy writing!

Brooks Manley

Creative Primer  is a resource on all things journaling, creativity, and productivity. We’ll help you produce better ideas, get more done, and live a more effective life.

My name is Brooks. I do a ton of journaling, like to think I’m a creative (jury’s out), and spend a lot of time thinking about productivity. I hope these resources and product recommendations serve you well. Reach out if you ever want to chat or let me know about a journal I need to check out!

Here’s my favorite journal for 2024: 

Gratitude Journal Prompts Mindfulness Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Anxiety Reflective Journal Prompts Healing Journal Prompts Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Journal Prompts Mental Health Journal Prompts ASMR Journal Prompts Manifestation Journal Prompts Self-Care Journal Prompts Morning Journal Prompts Evening Journal Prompts Self-Improvement Journal Prompts Creative Writing Journal Prompts Dream Journal Prompts Relationship Journal Prompts "What If" Journal Prompts New Year Journal Prompts Shadow Work Journal Prompts Journal Prompts for Overcoming Fear Journal Prompts for Dealing with Loss Journal Prompts for Discerning and Decision Making Travel Journal Prompts Fun Journal Prompts

Inspiring Ink: Expert Tips on How to Teach Creative Writing

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The Emotion Amplifier Thesaurus , a companion to The Emotion Thesaurus , releases May 13th.

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WRITERS HELPING WRITERS®

Helping writers become bestselling authors

Setting Thesaurus Entry: Pub

April 25, 2009 by BECCA PUGLISI

Booths, high tables and stools, long bar, hanging glass racks, mirror behind the bar, hundreds of different alcohol bottles, stools, kick plate along bar, straws, sprayers, TVs, beer/wine/highball/martini glasses, beer on tap, shot glasses, bowls of peanuts/pretzels…

music, talking, laughing, cheering, swearing, yelling, whistling, TVs, calling out orders, glasses clinking, cutlery scraping, thump of glass mugs onto tabletop, pool balls hitting one another, dings from the VLTs, the pressurized rush of a beer tap, coffee pot gurgling…

Beer, food cooking, grease, spices, char, sweat, perfume, aftershave, cigarette smell clinging to people’s clothing, bad breath, beer breath, vomit, dirty money

Beer, pop, alcohols (rum, vodka, liqueurs, whisky, gin, etc), coffee, pub food (nachos, salsa, hot wings, teriyaki wings, dry ribs, poppers, tempura, calamari, pizza, fish and chips, burgers, etc), water, orange juice, wine, gum, mints

Drunk people (bumping, groping, brushing, stumbling), taking hold of the back of a chair or stool and dragging it to a table, fingers around a glass of beer covered in condensation, wiping finders/mouth with a dry napkin, sticky hot sauce on fingers, spilling beer on self…

Helpful hints:

–The words you choose can convey atmosphere and mood.

Example 1:  After a slight hesitation, I squeezed myself onto the only vacant seat at the bar–a stool with a torn leather seat. Smoke permeated the room, forcing me to adopt a squint as I kept the entrance in view. TVs blared overhead and truckers slouched to either side of me, the collection of empty shot glasses and beer mugs in front them suggesting career drinkers. I set my purse on the worn bar and tried to flag down a bartender, accidentially dragging my sleeve through a spill of beer. Damn it! I glared at the door, ready to leave as soon as Marcie showed up. Only my sister would pick a place like this…

–Similes and metaphors create strong imagery when used sparingly.

Example 1: (Simile)  The woman with the platinum blonde hair and tight mini skirt sauntered up to the bar, eyeing the regulars like an aging lioness hungry for a meal…

Think beyond what a character sees, and provide a sensory feast for readers

Becca Puglisi is an international speaker, writing coach, and bestselling author of The Emotion Thesaurus and its sequels. Her books are available in five languages, are sourced by US universities, and are used by novelists, screenwriters, editors, and psychologists around the world. She is passionate about learning and sharing her knowledge with others through her Writers Helping Writers blog and via One Stop For Writers —a powerhouse online library created to help writers elevate their storytelling.

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Reader Interactions

April 30, 2009 at 4:10 am

It must have been hard work researching this one! 😉 Thanks again for some great ideas.

April 29, 2009 at 7:31 pm

LOL! Aging lioness hungry for a meal. I LOVE it.

April 28, 2009 at 7:07 pm

Glad it helps. I know this one is more for the adult writers, but it’s a great setting and you never know… 😉

Have a great week, everyone!

April 28, 2009 at 6:50 pm

This is a fun one!

April 28, 2009 at 6:26 am

More good stuff like usual. Love your blog!

April 27, 2009 at 1:33 pm

I can almost smell that stale beer and hear the tinkle of glass.

Love that aging lioness…

April 26, 2009 at 10:22 am

Great entry! If it was the afternoon, I might have a cold one after reading it!

April 26, 2009 at 10:08 am

Wow, you really worked on this list. It’s absolutely the BEST one I’ve seen on this. I really like the touch, which I need to use more! I love exp. #1 using the simile. Thanks so much! *SMILES*

April 25, 2009 at 7:56 pm

Thanks for the excellent tips!

April 25, 2009 at 7:47 pm

Pubs are so much fun! Working them into kids books is a nice challenge 🙂

April 25, 2009 at 2:26 pm

April 25, 2009 at 11:18 am

Nice list. Thank you for all your hard work!

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How to Describe Coffee in Creative Writing: Tips and Examples

Describing coffee in creative writing can be a challenging task, but it is an essential skill for any writer who wants to create vivid and engaging scenes. Whether you are writing a novel, a short story, or a blog post, the ability to describe the aroma, taste, and texture of a cup of coffee can help you bring your scenes to life and captivate your readers.

One of the best ways to describe coffee is to focus on its aroma. The scent of freshly brewed coffee can be rich and complex, with notes of chocolate, caramel, nuts, and fruit. By using sensory language and vivid imagery, you can transport your readers to a cozy coffee shop or a bustling café and immerse them in the sights, sounds, and smells of your scene.

Another important aspect of describing coffee is its taste and texture. A cup of coffee can be smooth and creamy, with hints of sweetness and bitterness, or bold and robust, with a strong and intense flavor. By paying attention to the nuances of the coffee's taste and texture, you can create a sensory experience that will engage your readers and leave them craving a cup of joe.

Understanding Coffee

History and origin.

Coffee has a rich history dating back to the 15th century, when it was first discovered in Ethiopia. The legend goes that a goat herder noticed his goats becoming more energetic after consuming berries from a certain tree. He tried the berries himself and experienced a similar boost in energy. From there, the consumption of coffee spread throughout the Middle East and eventually to Europe and the Americas.

Types of Coffee

There are many different types of coffee, each with its own unique flavor and brewing method. Some popular types include:

• Espresso: A strong, concentrated coffee made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans.
• Latte: A coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk.
• Cappuccino: A coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and foam.
• Americano: A coffee drink made by adding hot water to espresso.
• French press: A brewing method that involves steeping coarse coffee grounds in hot water and then pressing them through a mesh filter.

Coffee Economics

Coffee is an important crop for many developing countries, providing employment and income for millions of people. However, the coffee industry is also plagued by issues such as low prices for farmers and environmental concerns. Consumers can make a difference by choosing to buy fair trade coffee and supporting sustainable farming practices. In addition, coffee consumption has a significant impact on the global economy, with the coffee industry estimated to be worth billions of dollars annually.

Overall, coffee is a complex and fascinating subject with a rich history, diverse range of types, and important economic implications.

Describing Coffee

Coffee is a complex drink with a wide range of flavors, aromas, textures, and aftertastes. In creative writing, describing coffee can help create a vivid and sensory experience for the reader. Here are some tips on how to describe coffee in a creative and engaging way.

Taste and Aroma

The taste and aroma of coffee are perhaps the most important aspects of its flavor profile. Coffee can be described using a variety of adjectives and descriptive words, such as:

• Sour: a sharp, acidic taste
• Sweet: a sugary, caramel-like taste
• Bitter: a strong, pungent taste
• Fruity: a taste reminiscent of berries, citrus, or other fruit
• Nutty: a taste reminiscent of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts
• Caramelly: a sweet, caramel-like taste
• Chocolaty: a taste reminiscent of chocolate
• Citrus: a taste reminiscent of lemon, orange, or grapefruit

The aroma of coffee is also an important aspect of its flavor profile. Some common aroma descriptors for coffee include:

• Fragrant: a pleasant, sweet smell
• Floral: a smell reminiscent of flowers
• Resinous: a smell reminiscent of resin or pine
• Spicy: a smell reminiscent of spices, such as cinnamon or cloves
• Enzymatic: a smell resulting from the enzymatic breakdown of coffee compounds

Texture and Body

The texture and body of coffee refer to its physical properties in the mouth. Coffee can be described using a variety of adjectives and descriptive words, such as:

• Creamy: a smooth, velvety texture
• Thin: a watery, insubstantial texture
• Full-bodied: a rich, substantial texture
• Light-bodied: a thin, delicate texture

The aftertaste of coffee refers to the taste that lingers in the mouth after the coffee has been swallowed. Coffee can be described using a variety of adjectives and descriptive words, such as:

• Bitter: a strong, pungent aftertaste
• Sweet: a lingering, sugary aftertaste
• Salty: a taste reminiscent of salt
• Nutty: a lingering taste reminiscent of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts
• Fruity: a lingering taste reminiscent of berries, citrus, or other fruit

Roast Profile

The roast profile of coffee refers to the degree to which the coffee beans have been roasted. Coffee can be described using a variety of adjectives and descriptive words, such as:

• Light roast: a light brown color, with a mild flavor and acidity
• Medium roast: a medium brown color, with a balanced flavor and acidity
• Dark roast: a dark brown color, with a strong, bold flavor and low acidity

In conclusion, describing coffee in creative writing can help create a sensory experience for the reader. By using descriptive words and adjectives to describe the taste, aroma, texture, aftertaste, and roast profile of coffee, writers can create a vivid and engaging experience for their readers.

Coffee Experience

The perfect cup.

Describing the perfect cup of coffee is not an easy task. It can be different for every person, but there are some common characteristics that most people look for. A good cup of coffee should be warm, strong, and smooth. It should have a rich flavor that is not too bitter or too acidic. Some people prefer their coffee black, while others like to add milk and sugar. Caramel, chocolate, and hazelnut are also popular flavorings that can enhance the taste of coffee.

Coffee Shop Ambiance

The ambiance of a coffee shop can greatly affect the coffee experience. A welcoming and cozy atmosphere can make the coffee taste even better. The intoxicating scent of freshly brewed coffee can be enough to get someone in the door. Good coffee shops should have comfortable seating and a relaxing environment that encourages customers to stay and enjoy their coffee. A well-designed interior with natural lighting and plants can create a pleasant and calming environment.

Morning Ritual

For many people, coffee is an essential part of their morning ritual. The first sip of coffee in the morning can be a moment of pure bliss. It can provide the energy needed to start the day and can be a comforting routine that helps people transition from sleeping to being awake. Coffee is often paired with breakfast, and the combination of coffee and food can be a delightful experience.

In conclusion, describing the coffee experience can be a challenge, but it is worth it. The perfect cup of coffee, the ambiance of a coffee shop, and the morning ritual can all contribute to a memorable coffee experience. Whether it's a quick cup on the go or a leisurely morning at a coffee shop, coffee can be a source of comfort and enjoyment.

Coffee Language

When it comes to describing coffee, there are a variety of terms and phrases that can be used to convey its unique qualities and characteristics. From slang and nicknames to specific descriptors and the coffee flavor wheel, understanding the language of coffee can help you better appreciate and enjoy this beloved beverage.

Coffee Slang and Nicknames

Coffee has a rich history and culture, which has led to the development of a variety of slang terms and nicknames for the drink. Some common examples include:

• Jo: A shortened form of "java," which is another term for coffee.
• Mud: Referring to the thick and rich consistency of certain types of coffee.
• Starbucks: A popular coffee chain that has become synonymous with the drink itself.
• Cop: Another term for "cup of coffee."

Coffee Descriptors

When it comes to describing the taste and aroma of coffee, there are a variety of specific descriptors that can be used. These might include terms like:

• Bright: Referring to a coffee with a high level of acidity and a sharp, tangy flavor.
• Flowery: Describing a coffee with a delicate and floral aroma.
• Nutty: Referring to a coffee with a rich and nutty flavor, often with notes of almond or hazelnut.

By using these and other descriptors, coffee lovers can communicate more effectively about the unique qualities of their favorite brews.

Coffee Flavor Wheel

One useful tool for describing the taste and aroma of coffee is the coffee flavor wheel. This wheel breaks down the various flavors and aromas that can be found in coffee, including fruity, floral, nutty, and chocolatey notes. By using the flavor wheel, coffee drinkers can more accurately describe the specific qualities of their favorite brews, and better understand the nuances of different types of coffee.

Overall, the language of coffee is a rich and complex one, with a variety of terms and phrases that can be used to describe its unique qualities. By understanding this language, coffee lovers can better appreciate and enjoy the many different flavors and aromas that this beloved beverage has to offer.

Author's Perspective

When it comes to describing coffee in creative writing, the author's perspective is crucial. The way the author perceives coffee will influence the way they describe it to their readers. It is important for the author to have a clear understanding of their own taste preferences and to be able to articulate them in a way that is both descriptive and engaging.

From the author's perspective, coffee can be described in many different ways. Some authors may focus on the aroma of the coffee, describing it as rich, earthy, or floral. Others may focus on the taste, describing it as bold, smooth, or bitter. Still, others may focus on the experience of drinking coffee, describing it as comforting, energizing, or even addictive.

It is important for the author to be honest in their description of coffee. They should not exaggerate or make false claims about the taste or quality of the coffee. Instead, they should focus on describing the coffee in a way that is accurate and true to their own experience.

When it comes to describing coffee to a friend, the author's perspective may be different. They may use more casual language and focus on the aspects of the coffee that they think their friend will enjoy. They may also use analogies or comparisons to help their friend understand the taste or experience of the coffee.

If the author is describing coffee in a way that is incorrect or misleading, they may be perceived as being "wrong." It is important for the author to do their research and make sure they are accurately describing the coffee. If they are unsure about a particular aspect of the coffee, they should consult an expert or do more research before including it in their writing.

Questions and Resources

When it comes to describing coffee in creative writing, one might encounter various questions. Here are some of the most common questions that writers may have:

• What are some descriptive words to use when describing coffee?
• How can I describe the aroma of coffee?
• What are some creative ways to describe the taste of coffee?
• How can I describe the texture of coffee?

To answer these questions and more, there are several resources available. One such resource is the Coffee Taster's Flavor Wheel, which provides a visual representation of the various flavors and aromas that can be found in coffee. This can be a helpful tool for writers looking to accurately describe the taste and aroma of coffee.

Another useful resource is the Specialty Coffee Association's Coffee Taster's Flavor Wheel, which provides a more detailed breakdown of the various flavor components found in coffee. This can be especially helpful for writers looking to create more nuanced descriptions of coffee.

In addition to these resources, it can also be helpful to sample different types of coffee and take note of their unique flavors and aromas. This can provide writers with firsthand experience and inspiration for their writing.

Overall, by utilizing these resources and exploring the various questions that arise when describing coffee, writers can create rich and engaging descriptions that truly capture the essence of this beloved beverage.

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clubbing - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing

I'm clubbing like this is my last night on Earth, but I think that's just the way my mind avoids thinking about the hangover to come. The music moves me like I'm a puppet on strings, my head mashing so hard my brain is in shut down mode. There's so much sweat on my skin and not all of it's mine. The strobe masks so many of my movements, every clap of my hands like it's on pause at different moments. Tomorrow they'll be hell to pay but tonight the alcohol keeps on flowing in like it's on IV drip.

In the club the good vibes flow like a virus, but a good one. There's love in the air, all hyped up and ready to give us a good time. Ivan weaves through the guys and girls like a pro, his smile wider than the golden gates; God I love that man.

Clubbing makes my synapses jump like beans in a tin. I couldn't be more alive if I was shouting from a mountain top. The music is a drug that brings me higher, higher until my mind buzzes with pure joy. I feel as if my soul will shine so bright my skin will start to glow, like my aura would become visible. But the night is so young, my limbs have so much energy I could dance for millennia and then some more.

Clubbing is a party every night. We slip in among the crowd, a bee line for the bar. A whiskey later I'm ready to move with the music, hands in the air, body moving like an uncoiling rope, eyes on fire. The joy is like a shot of adrenaline to the heart and all at once I'm moving, one with the music, one with every crazy person dancing in this place.

The club is electric tonight, everyone feeding off of the smiles and fast dancing. I could go like this all night long, feet moving to the crazy beat like they belong to the music. I move in my dress like my hips were made to sway, the sequins catching the disco ball light that twirls above - launching a every shade of the rainbow into the darkness.

No-one can see the dance floor, it's wall to wall people dancing to the club music. There's no room for any more but somehow when Candy and I hit it the space magically comes. The music is all nineteen nineties but we're dancing like it's jive, twisting, turning, holding hands as we change sides. We're all grins, we look like idiots and we don't care. Inside we're just happy, happy and more alive than we can ever be in school. I feel the part of me that's really me come out to play, to feel the vibe of the music and let my body go free. One moment, one brilliant feeling of togetherness suspended in time. In ten years I'll still remember tonight, I love the quiet life but I relish the crazy fun times. Music, friends, good times, dance. Then I can focus in class, learn the facts, be the good girl. Can I help it of my soul loves a kickin' beat?

All day long I've been sitting at this desk, paper work piling higher and higher. Save the trees, huh? I don't think the managers here have ever heard of that. The clock ticks on the wall and I swear it's slowing down. Sitting here alone makes me flatter than a week old glass of coke. Every time I don't have to think about the task at hand I'm already dancing, dancing in the club to music so loud it makes me deaf. I won't be alone either, the whole gang is coming. With that music, that beat, those crazy, crazy lights I know I'm alive, I'm real, and reality is awesome. By the end of the night I'm quite drunk, I should cut back but who's counting? We leave arm in arm, wobbling down the lamp-lit alley to hail a cab. The next day I check out the photos and laugh my ass off. Those girls are so precious. They get me through. I love'em.

In the dark of the club all I had seen was his high cheekbones and mischievous eyes. He danced like no-one was watching, but of course they all were. He just hadn't cared. We had jived and boogied to rave music like it was thirty years previously, every move a throw back to an era that had belonged to our grandparents. At the end of the night we had burst through the doors in to the artificial glow of street-lamps, staggering, failing to hail a taxi. In the charcoal of almost-dawn we had arrived at my apartment and fallen into bed; asleep before we had time to get frisky, or at least I think that's what happened. In the late morning sunlight that streams through the blinds as if they weren't really there at all I can see his face bares the pock-marks of teenage acne. There is still some pinkness to it from the scars. Otherwise he is tanned, but I suspect it is natural rather than sun-induced. With that black hair he has a Greek look. Before I can fix myself up his eyes crack open ...

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