Ways To Show Not Tell: Anger

Ways to Show Not Tell: Anger

Here is a little list for you guys on how to show anger without having your character proclaim YOU MAKE ME SO ANGRY!

have their jaw and/or fists clenched

have their "eyes narrow dangerously"

have their nostrils flare

have their muscles tighten/jaw tighten

have their lips press in a straight line

have them take a shot - or really, do anything - in an aggressive manner

have their tone of voice be tight

have them strain to speak nicely

have them give an "obviously fake" smile

have them size the other person up

have them square up to the other person

have them slam down the receiver (when talking on the phone)

have their voice strained like they are straining to keep their voice level

have their voice "crack with emotion"

have them hesitate before speaking if they're more the type to hold back their anger

if they aren't the type to hold back, an obvious one: have them raise their voice

Hopefully these can help you write your angry characters. Obviously this list isn't exhaustive, as people react to anger - and any other emotion - differently. Truly consider your characters and how they respond to other emotions & situations before picking how your character responds to anger. Thank you and if you have any questions, feel free to send them my way! Happy writing.