The Writer's Guide to Expressing Character Emotions

By Raja Davidson

The Writer's Lexicon of Crafting Character Emotion is a reference book that provides writers with a comprehensive list of words and phrases to describe different emotions and reactions of your characters. It is useful for writers because it helps you:

 

Avoid repetition and clichés when writing about character emotions.

Show, not tell, the emotions of your characters by using sensory details, body language, dialogue, and internal thoughts.

Create realistic and nuanced characters that have complex and varied emotions.

Improve your writing skills and craft by enriching your vocabulary, enhancing your descriptions, and strengthening your voice.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Raja Davidson
• Release date: Oct 18, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223966029

Book preview

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Emotions are the threads that weave a compelling and enduring narrative. They connect characters to readers, drive plot development, and serve as a mirror to society. The importance of conveying emotions in fiction cannot be overstated; it is the heart and soul of storytelling, inviting readers to embark on an emotional journey that enriches their own lives.

The Writer's Lexicon of Character Emotion is a book that provides writers with a comprehensive list of words and phrases to describe different emotions and reactions of your characters. It is useful for writers because it helps you:

●  Avoid repetition and clichés when writing about character emotions.

●  Show, not tell, the emotions of your characters by using sensory details, body language, dialogue, and internal thoughts.

●  Create realistic and nuanced characters that have complex and varied emotions.

●  Improve your writing skills and craft by enriching your vocabulary, enhancing your descriptions, and strengthening your voice.

AFFECTION

Definition :

- Affection is the gentle embrace of shared moments, an unspoken connection that weaves warmth and care into the fabric of our relationships. It's the soft hum of understanding, a soothing balm that nurtures bonds beyond romance, creating a haven of trust, comfort, and belonging.

Actions - Verbal:

- Complimenting with sincerity, lighting up their face.

- Uttering words of appreciation, soft and genuine.

- Saying I love you with a voice full of tenderness.

- Praising not just their actions but their essence.

- Encouraging words, like a soft, reassuring breeze.

- Offering kind solace in words during their dark hours.

- Sharing anecdotes that warm the heart.

- Whispering affectionate nicknames, secret endearments.

- Confessing the depth of your feelings for them.

- Voicing the sentiment of caring profoundly.

Actions - Physical:

- A hug, tight and warm, like a secure fortress.

- Holding hands, fingers interlacing like an unbreakable bond.

- High-fives or fist bumps, celebrating together.

- Patting on the back, a silent well done.

- Snuggling close, seeking solace in each other's embrace.

- Gentle strokes on their hair or face, a tactile caress.

- Playful tickling, laughter bubbling like a spring.

- Arm around the shoulder, a supportive shelter.

- Resting your head on their shoulder, a wordless I'm here.

- An embrace, cocooning them in your affection.

Non-verbal:

- Smiles, not just any smiles, but those that radiate warmth.

- Deep, unwavering eye contact, a silent promise.

- Leaning in, getting closer, sharing your space.

- Mirroring their body language, showing alignment.

- Nods of agreement, affirming their thoughts.

- The knowing glance, a shared secret understood.

- Heartfelt notes, like whispers from the heart.

- Supportive emojis, a modern form of endearment.

- Acts of active listening, their words hanging on your every nod.

- Whispering secrets, sharing vulnerabilities with trust.

Physical Sensations:

- Warmth in the chest, like a cozy fireplace.

- A tingling sensation, as if touched by magic.

- Butterflies in the stomach, fluttering like tiny dancers.

- A rush of happiness, a euphoric wave.

- Goosebumps, a reaction to a tender moment.

- Comfort and security, like a blanket on a cold night.

- Relaxation of tense muscles, a sigh of relief.

- Quickening heartbeat, the rhythm of excitement.

- Feeling light and buoyant, as if weightless.

- A deep connection, an invisible thread that binds.

Behaviors:

- Quality time together, a gift of presence.

- Offering help and assistance, an extended hand.

- Remembering important dates, a mark of thoughtfulness.

- Being a good listener, their words cherished.

- Supporting their goals and dreams, a cheerleader.

- Surprising them with thoughtful gestures, a pleasant shock.

- Planning activities they enjoy, a celebration of their interests.

- Being reliable and dependable, a rock in their life.

- Apologizing and making amends when needed, a bridge to healing.

- Celebrating their successes, sharing in their victories.

Triggers:

- Shared interests and hobbies, weaving common threads.

- Acts of kindness from the other person, like gentle rain.

- Meaningful conversations, where words carry weight.

- Recalling shared memories, a nostalgic trip.

- Achievements or milestones, markers of progress.

- Acts of selflessness, strengthening the bond.

- Being there during difficult times, a testament to support.

- Experiencing trust and loyalty, the bedrock of the connection.

- Time spent together, a precious currency.

- Acts of vulnerability, the heartbeat of intimacy.

Duration: Affection can be a fleeting spark in a moment or a steady flame that burns through a lifetime.

Coping Mechanisms:

- Seeking social support, a lifeline of comfort.

- Engaging in self-care, nurturing the bond within.

- Practicing gratitude, an ode to appreciation.

- Talking openly about feelings, building bridges of understanding.

Long-Term Effects:

- Enhanced well-being, a garden of positivity.

- Strengthened relationships, foundations fortified.

- Increased trust, a treasure nurtured.

- Emotional resilience, a shield against life's storms.

Emotions It Could Lead To:

- Gratitude, a constant wellspring.

- Contentment, a tranquil harbor.

- Happiness, a radiant sun.

- Trust, an unbreakable bond.

- A sense of belonging, an eternal home.

AGITATION

Definition :

- Agitation is like a pressure cooker about to burst, a constant unease gnawing at your core.

- It's the edgy dance of an unsettled mind, the relentless craving for relief from an invisible but heavy weight on your shoulders.

Actions - Verbal:

- Muttering discontent under your breath.

- The exasperated click of your tongue.

- Speaking through gritted teeth.

- Words spilling out in an anxious rush.

- Strained, stammering attempts to express.

- Silent but heavy, tense pauses.

- Frustrated mutterings like a broken record.

- Sharp, biting retorts that leave scars.

- Sudden bursts of breathless frustration.

- Incoherent ramblings of bottled emotion.

Actions - Physical:

- Fingers twitching with restless energy.

- Restlessly pacing back and forth.

- Nails digging into your palms.

- A jaw clenched so tight it aches.

- Knuckles turning white from clenched fists.

- Unintentional, rapid weight shifts.

- Jerking motions as if to shake it off.

- Shoulders held up in a perpetual shrug.

- Eyes darting about like a hunted animal.

- A body trembling, seeking an escape.

Non-verbal:

- Darting, desperate glances.

- Eyes avoiding all eye contact.

- A jawline tense enough to cut glass.

- Frequent, agitated shifting.

- Frantic, impatient drumming of fingers.

- Twisting and turning in an endless struggle.

- The subtle but frantic shaking of one's head.

- Restless legs, unable to stay still.

- Hands reaching, grasping for something.

- A face contorted in quiet anguish.

Physical Sensations:

- A heart that pounds like a trapped bird.

- A hot rush of blood to the cheeks.

- Muscles coiled tight, ready to spring.

- A crawl of unease beneath the skin.

- Sensations akin to being strangled.

- The persistent churn of your insides.

- Breath stolen by a heavy weight.

- Electric shocks tingling across your skin.

- A gut-wrenching, nauseating churn.

- An ache that refuses to be ignored.

Behaviors:

- A relentless search for answers.

- The compulsion to fix everything.

- Restlessly taking on task after task.

- An uncontrolled, frenetic outburst.

- Incessant, restless repositioning.

- Compulsively seeking outlets for energy.

- Binging or indulging to find solace.

- Withdrawal from those who cause strife.

- Running from it all, seeking release.

- A silent, simmering explosion.

Triggers:

- Injustices that cannot be ignored.

- Being trapped in a corner.

- Unexpected, devastating news.

- A loss of control in any situation.

- Tension building beyond endurance.

- A surge of overwhelming demands.

- When respect is nowhere to be found.

- Hurtful words that pierce your heart.

- The silence that shatters your world.

- The unbearable weight of chronic stress.

Duration: Agitation can surge briefly or linger, depending on your ability to find an outlet or resolution.

Coping Mechanisms:

- Taking deep, shuddering breaths.

- Seeking out solitude and stillness.

- Pouring your turmoil into art.

- Finding grounding through physical movement.

Long-Term Effects:

- The slow erosion of peace.

- Fractured relationships.

- A mind forever scarred.

- The churning of chronic anxiety.

- Physical repercussions from stress.

- A restless soul seeking respite.

Emotions It Could Lead To:

- Rage.

- Anxiety.

- Exhaustion.

- Desperation.

- Despair.

AGONY

Definition :

- Agony is an overwhelming maelstrom of suffering and torment, a relentless tempest that ravages the soul. It's the searing pain that pierces the heart, the despair that engulfs every thought, and the abyss that swallows all hope.

Actions - Verbal:

- Shrieks of anguish, a haunting symphony of pain.

- Incoherent wails, words lost in a sea of despair.

- Cries for mercy, like a wounded animal's plea.

- Whispers of torment, as if sharing secrets with shadows.

- Accusations that pierce like daggers.

- Sobs that echo through the void.

- Raw, guttural expressions of suffering.

- Repeated cries, like a broken record of agony.

- Imprecations against fate, railing against the cruel hand dealt.

- Laments that hang heavy in the air, laden with grief.

Actions - Physical:

- Body writhing in torment, a dance of suffering.

- Clutching at the chest, as if trying to hold the pain.

- Curling into a fetal position, seeking refuge within.

- Shaking uncontrollably, like a leaf in a storm.

- Tremors that rack the body, an earthquake of torment.

- Hair pulled in frustration, as if hoping to tear the pain away.

- Falling to one's knees, the weight of agony unbearable.

- Scratching at one's own skin, a desperate escape.

- Collapsing in a heap, a surrender to the agony.

Non-verbal:

- Eyes glazed with tears, a window to a shattered soul.

- Silent screams, a prison for anguish.

- An empty stare, as if the spirit has been drained.

- Shoulders hunched in defeat, bearing the burden of suffering.

- The absence of movement, like a world frozen in pain.

- Lips quivering, unable to form words.

- Breath caught in the throat, a stifled cry.

- A vacant expression, as if the self has gone adrift.

- A shudder that runs through the body, like a wave of torment.

- A gaze fixed on nothing, lost in the abyss of agony.

Physical Sensations:

- A heart that feels as if it's being torn apart.

- The burn of tears, scalding like liquid fire.

- A lump in the throat, choking back cries.

- A sensation of drowning, gasping for relief.

- The tightness of a vice around the chest.

- The prickling of skin, as if it's crawling with despair.

- A pit in the stomach, a deep well of torment.

- Aching muscles, as if they've been through a battle.

- A feeling of weight, as if the world is pressing down.

- The piercing pain of a thousand needles.

Behaviors:

- Desperate attempts to find relief.

- Isolation from others, seeking solace in solitude.

- Seeking help, reaching out for support.

- The avoidance of triggers that worsen the agony.

- Self-destructive actions in search of escape.

- Numbness and withdrawal from the world.

- Lashing out at those who come too close.

- Engaging in self-harm as a release.

- Attempts to find distractions, even if temporary.

- Seeking professional help to cope with the agony.

Triggers:

- Sudden, devastating losses.

- Unbearable physical pain.

- Heartbreak and the loss of love.

- Overwhelming stress and pressure.

- Reliving traumatic memories.

- Feeling helpless and trapped.

- The crushing weight of guilt.

- Abandonment and betrayal.

- Injustice and a sense of powerlessness.

- Chronic and unending suffering.

Duration: Agony can be a fleeting, intense burst of suffering or a prolonged state of despair, varying based on individual experiences and coping mechanisms.

Coping Mechanisms:

- Seeking professional help and therapy.

- Engaging in self-care and self-compassion.

- Reaching out to supportive friends and family.

- Finding healthy outlets for emotional release.

Long-Term Effects:

- Lingering emotional scars and trauma.

- Impact on mental and physical health.

- Strained relationships and isolation.

- Chronic depression and anxiety.

- A persistent struggle with despair.

Emotions It Could Lead To:

- Desperation.

- Grief.

- Hopelessness.

- Isolation.

- The darkness of depression.

ALARM

Definition :

- Alarm is the piercing scream of warning that jolts the senses, a surge of adrenaline that awakens the primal instincts. It's the sudden recognition of imminent danger, setting the body and mind into a frenzied state of readiness.

Actions - Verbal:

- Shouts of urgency, like a beacon in the chaos.

- Repeating cries for help, a desperate plea.

- The panic-stricken call for attention, an alarm bell.

- Hasty, breathless instructions, a race against time.

- A voice trembling with fear, revealing the alarm.

- Hushed, frantic whispers, as if not to be overheard.

- The unrelenting warning of imminent threat.

- A voice breaking with panic, unable to contain the alarm.

- Frantic calls for others to take cover, to act.

- Words that race, tripping over one another in haste.

Actions - Physical:

- Sudden, jerky movements, like a marionette pulled by strings.

- A jolt, a startle that sends limbs into a whirl.

- Clammy hands, searching for safety and support.

- Wild, darting eyes scanning for the source of danger.

- Trembling and quivering, like a leaf in a storm.

- The rush of fleeing from the danger, an escape.

- Hands covering ears, blocking out the sirens.

- Breathless, gasping for air, to survive the alarm.

- Heart pounding, like a war drum in the chest.

- A jump, a reflex to the shocking alarm.

Non-verbal:

- Eyes wide with terror, like portals to the abyss.

- The flush of skin, a rush of blood from the alarm.

- Tensed shoulders, prepared for action.

- Breath held, waiting for the signal to escape.

- Sweat, a sheen of fear on the brow.

- The rigid stillness of a body ready to react.

- The quiver of the lips, trembling with alarm.

- A silent, horrified gaze, an internal scream.

- The furrowed brow of a mind racing to understand.

- A stagger, a disorientation from the alarm.

Physical Sensations:

- The shock of cold sweat, like a chilling rain.

- A rush of heat, an internal alarm bell.

- The pounding of a heart, like a relentless drum.

- Goosebumps prickling the skin, a sensation of alarm.

- The shiver of a body gripped by sudden cold.

- A lump in the throat, as if trying to swallow the alarm.

- A tightness in the chest, like a vise of fear.

- A ringing in the ears, like the siren's cry.

- A sensation of vertigo, spinning with alarm.

- A rush of energy, like lightning in the veins.

Behaviors:

- Fleeing from the source of alarm.

- Seeking cover and protection from danger.

- Assisting others to find safety.

- Calling for help, emergency services.

- Offering comfort and reassurance to those in alarm.

- Reacting quickly and decisively to the threat.

- Prioritizing actions to mitigate danger.

- Earning the trust of others in the midst of alarm.

- Collaborating with others to address the threat.

- Organizing and leading efforts to respond to the alarm.

Triggers:

- Sudden, unexpected emergencies.

- Life-threatening situations and danger.

- Warnings of natural disasters.

- Emergency alarms, sirens, and alerts.

- Unexpected threats to safety and well-being.

- The sight of fire, smoke, or danger.

- The sound of gunshots or explosions.

- News of imminent danger and crises.

- Physical sensations signaling immediate alarm.

- The presence of danger to loved ones.

Duration: Alarm can be a brief but intense surge of adrenaline during a crisis or persist as long as the threat remains, depending on the nature of the emergency.

Coping Mechanisms:

- Following safety protocols and evacuation plans.

- Receiving guidance and reassurance from authorities.

- Taking deep breaths and maintaining a clear head.

- Supporting and helping others in moments of alarm.

Long-Term Effects:

- Post-traumatic stress.

- Anxiety and heightened vigilance.

- Altered perceptions of safety.

- The need for ongoing support and recovery.

- Potentially strengthened emergency preparedness.

Emotions It Could Lead To:

- Fear.

- Panic.

- Urgency.

- Survival instincts.

- A heightened state of awareness.

AMUSED

Definition :

- Amusement is the delightful sparkle of mirth that tickles the soul, a spontaneous eruption of joy that wraps you in the warmth of laughter. It's the unexpected twist, the clever jest, and the merry surprise that fills life with lighthearted moments.

Actions - Verbal:

- Laughter bubbling up, like a refreshing spring.

- Chuckles of delight, soft and infectious.

- The sound of amusement in the voice, a melody of joy.

- Snickers and giggles, like secret confessions.

- Playful teasing, a source of endless amusement.

- Spontaneous jokes and witty one-liners.

- Quips that spark amusement, a burst of laughter.

- Light Hearted banter, an exchange of amusement.

- Guffaws of uncontrollable mirth.

- A hearty laugh that's impossible to resist.

Actions - Physical:

- Leaning forward with glee, eager for more.

- Clapping hands in delight, like an applauding audience.

- A grin that widens with each moment of amusement.

- Nudges and playful shoves, shared laughter.

- A joyful dance, expressing amusement.

- Hugs of laughter, as if embracing joy itself.

- Rolling on the floor with mirth, a carefree tumble.

- A twinkle in the eyes, like stars of amusement.

- A playful tap on the shoulder, spreading laughter.

- Holding one's sides in the throes of laughter.

Non-verbal:

- A face lit up with a contagious smile.

- The gleam of shared amusement in the eyes.

- Raised eyebrows, an expression of delightful surprise.

- A knowing glance that communicates shared humor.

- A wink that says, I'm in on the joke.

- An appreciative nod, acknowledging the cleverness.

- Playful, exaggerated gestures that enhance amusement.

- A slap on the knee, an outburst of mirth.

- The bounce of anticipation in each step.

- A relaxed posture, comfortable in amusement.

Physical Sensations:

- The warmth that spreads through the chest.

- The tickling sensation in the belly.

- A rush of energy, like a burst of joy.

- Goosebumps of amusement, like a tickle on the skin.

- Relaxation of tense muscles, as laughter eases tension.

- A feeling of lightness and buoyancy.

- Breathless, as if the laughter has stolen the air.

- Aching cheeks from smiling too much.

- A heart that beats in time with the laughter.

- Tingling sensations, like fireworks of amusement.

Behaviors:

- Sharing the source of amusement with others.

- Encouraging and participating in witty banter.

- Seeking out and creating opportunities for amusement.

- Spreading laughter to brighten someone's day.

- Using humor and playfulness to enhance relationships.

- Celebrating the moments of joy and lightheartedness.

- Remembering and reminiscing about amusing moments.

- Creating inside jokes and shared humorous memories.

- Supporting the laughter of others and being a good audience.

- Relishing and savoring the delight of amusement.

Triggers:

- Unexpected, clever humor and wit.

- Playful teasing and banter with friends.

- Surprising and delightful twists in stories or situations.

- Comedic performances and entertainment.

- Amusing anecdotes and humorous experiences.

- Sharing funny memes and videos.

- Laughter that infectiously spreads among a group.

- Memorable and shared humorous memories.

- Unexpected compliments or flattery that amuses.

- Playful and jovial atmospheres.

Duration: Amusement can be a brief and spontaneous burst of laughter, a prolonged session of shared joy, or a warm memory that brings a smile even long after the moment has passed.

Coping Mechanisms:

- Seeking humor and laughter to lighten the mood.

- Connecting with people who share your sense of humor.

- Focusing on playful activities and hobbies.

- Using wit and cleverness to navigate challenges with amusement.

Long-Term Effects:

- Strengthened relationships through shared joy.

- Enhanced emotional well-being and stress relief.

- A greater appreciation for humor and playfulness in life.

- A reservoir of amusing memories to draw upon in tough times.

Emotions It Could Lead To:

- Joy.

- Happiness.

- Gratitude.

- A sense of connection.

- A brighter outlook on life.

ANGER

Definition :

- Anger is the raging inferno within, a seething tempest that surges through the core. It's the fiery manifestation of injustice, the boiling over of frustration, and the tumultuous whirlwind of unmet expectations.

Actions - Verbal:

- Shouting with a thunderous voice, like a tempest unleashed.

- Swearing and cursing, the sharp edge of anger.

- Accusations flung like daggers, piercing the heart.

- Sarcasm dripping with disdain, a venomous bite.

- Harsh, biting criticism, like shards of glass.

- A verbal barrage of frustration and indignation.

- The strained, ominous silence before the storm.

- A tirade of anger, unstoppable in its force.

- A voice trembling with rage, raw and unbridled.

- The clenching of teeth, containing a tsunami of anger.

Actions - Physical:

- Fists clenched, a physical embodiment of fury.

- Stomping and pacing, as if ready to strike.

- A posture taut and rigid, like a coiled spring.

- Breathing heavily, as if gasping for control.

- Shoving and slamming, a forceful release of anger.

- Trembling with the effort to contain the rage.

- A face flushed with heat, like a furnace.

- Eyes narrowed with fury, an intense gaze.

- A stormy countenance, betraying the turmoil within.

- Physical confrontations, a violent manifestation of anger.

Non-verbal:

- A gaze that could set the world on fire.

- An aura of palpable tension, like a thunderstorm.

- An unwavering stare that challenges all.

- A face twisted with anger, contorted by rage.