In Chapter Six of Stephen King’s book On Writing, he outlines the importance of using good descriptions in your writing--both “how-to” and “how much to”. Read the excerpt from Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, Wild, paying special attention to her use of descriptions to tell her “story”.
Answer two of the following questions:
- King says, “Description begins with visualization of what it is you want the reader to experience” (173). Based on the descriptions included throughout Strayed’s passage, what does she want us to experience?
- Give 2 specific descriptions (direct quotes) from the passage that support your answer for number one and explain how each description helps to tell the author’s “story”.
- Give 3 specific examples of the author’s use of sensory details (3 different senses).
- Give an example of a simile used in the passage and explain how it helps the reader connect with the author’s story.
- Give another example of figurative language (other than a simile) from the passage and explain what it “shows” the reader.
- What is one descriptive writing technique that you can use in your descriptive essay? (Give a specific example from the passage.)
Your responses must be at least 100 words. If you finish early, for extra credit, you may comment on one of your classmate's responses!
