S3E7. Writing Emotion (Or, Not Everybody Has To Have Trauma)

The Fanfic Writers' Craft

In this episode, Jo (@pebblysand) and Lani (@copper-dust) discuss the art of evoking emotion in fanfiction, focusing on how to craft narratives that resonate deeply with readers. They explore the importance of allowing readers to connect with characters through their positive traits, rather than relying solely on trauma, with Lani emphasizing the "show, don’t tell" approach to avoid emotional manipulation.

Jo shares how she draws inspiration from observing others, while Lani incorporates her own emotional experiences, particularly when handling intense themes like grief and trauma. They also discuss the challenge of pacing emotional scenes in longer works, and Jo stresses the value of outlining to maintain balance.

This week, we mention:

• Books: Intermezzo by Sally Rooney ; Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery ; Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by JK Rowling
• Fics: castles by pebblysand ; The Seam Between by copper_dust ; the fault in faulty manufacturing by pebblysand ; Check the Spindle by copper_dust
• Films: Love Actually
• TV: Friends ; Anne with an E ; The Good Wife
• Other: Jo’s Tumblr post about writing emotional scenes

Your recommendations for this week are:

• And the Band Played On by Randy Shilts
• Capital (TV series)
• American Horror Story & American Horror Stories

You can find us online at:

• The Fanfic Writer’s Craft: tumblr ; spotify ; ko-fi
• Lani (@copper-dust): tumblr ; AO3
• Jo (@pebblysand): tumblr ; AO3