It really wouldn't make sense for someone to describe someone's eyes as "emerald" or "as bright as sapphire." Unless the person describing this is a jewel, gem, or jewelry thief/expert. If you are doing a comparison, describe the color with something that the character would be most familiar with. That said, you can guess what this post is going to be about by now, right?
Your next suggestion is that you shouldn't compare your character solely to some celebrity or famous person, even if they are mega-super-ultra popular and everyone seems to know them. Reason #1: They change their looks from time-to-time. If you're going to compare, say the specific time that the celebrity had that look ("...exactly what [insert celebrity name] had looked like when he was in high school."). Reason #2: Some people may have lived their life in a cave and do not know who you're talking about. Reason #3: They may know the name but they don't remember what the celebrity looks like.
The last lesson is to not cram the person's entire description in just one paragraph. Let it ease in. Try discretely put them in the actions of the person ("...combed his unkempt black hair.") or in speeches (..."I always had a thing for black hair and green eyes.").
There are exceptions. Maybe your character would like to point out a mysterious and striking new student, a horrible assailant, etc.
I agree, too much description in one paragraph can ruin a page of writing simply because it beceems too much and too stuffy! I'm a new follower, love the post :)
ReplyDeleteJuli @ Universe in Words
I hate it when authors add in everything from where his designer jeans came from to the color of his shoelaces. Writers should know when enough is enough.
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