THERE is an old adage in writing, “Show, don’t tell”, which means letting the readers experience the message through facts, words and action, instead of the author’s own summary.
The concept is often attributed to Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, reputed to have said, “Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.”
Rather than use adjectives like “huge” and “remarkable”, describe it in more detail and let readers make their own interpretation and judgment from the text.
For example, rather than simply saying someone was angry, describe how their muscles tensed up, their teeth clenched, breath quickened, voices raised to a near scream... well, you get the picture.
Over the years, the philosophy of “Show, don’t tell” has expanded beyond just writing.
In companies and organisations, leaders are expected to set good examples for those under their charge.
When coaching new recruits, it is more effective to show them how to perform particular tasks rather than simply ordering them around.
Another name for it might be “leadership by example”.
The same is true for politicians. Promises are only good when they are fulfilled, and voters will remember and support the elected representatives that often go down to the ground, understand their needs and concerns, and deliver on their promises, rather than engage in merely popular rhetoric.
With the use of photo images and video, it becomes possible to show not only through words and text but also visually — static, animated, recorded, live, and in surround sound!
In the digital age, showing has also become so much easier.
You could, if you wanted to, show whomever whatever you wanted. The only question is how much you want to show and through what platform.
Take your pick of the popular social media platforms — Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Telegram, WhatsApp, WeChat, Line— or the up-and-coming ones like Snapchat and Bigo Live.
Because of this unprecedented transparency, celebrities, for example, have gained more admiration and respect from their fans who follow their daily routine and activities on Instagram and Facebook.
They might be working out daily to stay in shape (like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), juggling their entertainment and thriving business careers (like Neelofa), or doing all three and still have time for family and supporting noble causes (like Datuk Siti Nurhaliza).
We have access to the “backstage” and see all the people who make up their support structure — from the managers, make-up artists, colleagues, friends and family — who plan their schedules, make them look good for the cameras, inspire their creativity, and keep them grounded.
There are a couple of lessons we can draw from this phenomenon.
First, it is equally possible to display something wrong or detrimental to ourselves or others. So, exercise some care and common sense.
Secondly, admiration and respect is not the exclusive domain of celebrities or the rich and famous.
Wouldn’t it be great, for example, if more people get to see how teachers, labourers, farmers and fishermen spend their day and earn a living?
The efforts and hours they put in, the hurdles and obstacles they have to overcome… seeing this first-hand would open many hearts and minds, and earn them well-deserved respect and support.
Don’t take my word for it. See for yourselves.
The writer, Lokman Mansor studied journalism at the University of Toledo, Ohio. He has been with the NSTP group for more than two decades, the majority of them at ‘Business Times’. He has a wide range of interests in movies and music, plays golf and the drums. He can be reached via lokman.mansor@nst.com.my