NaNoWriMo Series: Writing Tip #14

Alright, my fellow writers, make some room in your writing toolboxes for some classic English class OG's: Symbolism and Metaphor. For those who have no idea what these tools are or how to use them, let's get the introductions out of the way:

Symbolism is the art of using the idea of one thing to represent something else. Such as the color red symbolizing "stop" and green symbolizing "go" in a traffic light in America.

Metaphor is the art of describing something by saying it is something else based on a deeper meaning. Such as saying someone has a "heart of gold" usually doesn't mean their heart is made out of gold, but that they have a pure and loving heart.

Both of these can be a bit tricky to master but are a great way to elevate your writing. In my opinion, using too many can bog down your writing so use them like sprinkles, sparingly. I like to use symbolism for descriptions and metaphors for dialogue. This isn't a hard and fast rule, this is just something that I like to go by. Play around with both of them while you ask yourself some of these questions to help you get started:

1. What are my favorite metaphors that I use in everyday life?

2. What are the most potent symbols that appear in my life?

3. What symbols do you associate with your main character?

4. What is an accurate metaphor that you can use to describe your least favorite character in your story?

If you want to learn more NaNoWriMo tips, check out the 30 Days of Tips that will unfold this month. Can't wait? Then check out my mini-course on The Basics of Storytelling that's available for $1. I look forward to seeing you in whatever form I appear. Until next time.

About the Author

Crystal Cabrae is a storyteller who specializes in writing dystopian, romantic, and adventurous worlds for animation and fantastical fiction. She is a proud graduate of Full Sail University, AMDA, and New World School of the Arts. Her six years of acting training in New York and Miami gives her a unique perspective when approaching her characters. She has a passion for sharing how to create stories with the world and inspiring the storyteller that lives within all of us. Follow her on IG or Pinterest to know the latest.