What Makes a Better Novel?

So you're writing a novel. In the novel, you are writing about a character. That character is going through some trauma or tough time. They are a bit wary. They look out a door and wonder if it is safe. They give a smile because they think it is safe. How do you describe that smile? Happy, sad, worried, tentative, lips curved up, lips curved down, straight line. Grimace. There are so many ways in which you can describe a smile. Which is best, and will it make your novel any better whichever way you describe the smile?

Do you explain everything to the reader, or do you leave the reader guessing or leave it open for the reader to use their own imagination? Which is best?

Whether to explain a character's tentative smile or leave it open to interpretation depends on the writer's intention and the overall style of the narrative. Both approaches have their merits:

Explaining the Tentative Smile

• Clarity: Providing explicit reasoning (like "as if she was unsure whether she was allowed to feel happy") can clarify the character's feelings, giving readers insight into her emotional state.
• Depth: It adds layers to the character, making her more relatable and fostering empathy among readers.
• Emotional Engagement: This approach can enhance emotional engagement by making the character's internal conflict more evident.

Leaving It Open to Interpretation

• Invitation to Readers: Allowing the reader to infer the meaning of the smile can create a sense of involvement, inviting them to engage actively with the text.
• Subtlety: Not explaining every detail can evoke a more nuanced reading experience, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions about the character's emotions.
• Pacing: It may also help with pacing, keeping the narrative flowing without prolonged exposition.

What Makes a Better Novel?

The best choice depends on several factors, including:

• Character Development: If the character's internal struggle is central to the story, explanation may be necessary.
• Tone and Style: The tone (intimate vs. detached) and style of the novel can dictate how much internal thought to include.
• Audience: Consider the readers' expectations. Some may prefer subtlety, while others enjoy clear emotional insight.

Conclusion

Ultimately, both methods can work effectively in a novel. It often depends on the specific moment, the character's complexity, and the desired impact on the reader. A blend of both approaches—using subtle cues alongside occasional explanations—can create a rich, engaging narrative.