How To Show Feelings, Expressions, and Body Language

This is a crucial blog for newcomers.

A lot of people know what they want their character to feel, but they do not know how to show it in writing. That is where small visible expressions and actions help.

Since you want to use this format, a very beginner-friendly way to show expression is:

smirks
*grins*
*glances away*
*shrugs*
*narrows his eyes*
*folds her arms*

This works well when used for things other people can actually see.

For example:

smirks “You came a long way just to ask that?”

Or glances toward the gate. “We are not the only ones awake tonight.”

This style is easy to read and very approachable for newcomers. It helps add tone without needing long paragraphs every time.

That said, it works best when mixed with regular prose, not used as the entire post all the time.

Very basic version:
*grins,* “You fight better than you look.”

Stronger version:
He leans one shoulder against the timber post and grins, though there is still fresh mud on his sleeve from the road.
“You fight better than you look.”

The second version gives the expression more weight because it lives inside a fuller scene.

Expressions are useful for:

• attitude

• mood

• tension

• teasing

• uncertainty

• discomfort

• confidence

Examples:

smirks—good for cocky or amused moments
*grimaces*—good for pain, frustration, or disgust
*hesitates*—good for nerves or uncertainty
*looks down for a moment*—good for shame, sadness, or reflection
*raises a brow*—good for disbelief or dry humor
*grins*—good for playfulness, boldness, or warmth
*sighs softly*—good for fatigue or disappointment
*tenses at the shoulders*—good for fear or anger
*glances away*—good for discomfort or avoidance

A Pax Dei-style example:

The guard listened without interrupting, one hand still resting near the shaft of his spear. At the mention of the rival house, he narrows his eyes.
“Careful,” he said. “Some names bring more trouble than the men carrying them.”

Another example:

The smith turned the broken blade over in his hands, studying the split near the hilt. He grimaces.
“This did not fail by accident.”

One thing to avoid is using expressions for things other players cannot actually see.

For example:

remembers his tragic past
*secretly hates you*

Those are not visible actions. Better to show them through behavior.

Instead of:
*is secretly terrified*

Try:
*swallows hard.* “I said I’m fine.”

That way the fear is shown, not simply announced.

A good rule for this blog is:

Use asterisk expressions for visible emotion and small, readable action. Use full prose when you want depth, atmosphere, or stronger storytelling.