My theme for the Blogging from A to Z challenge is Creativity. To be creative, we rely on our senses, and many creative processes make use of a few or all of the senses.
I have to remind myself to incorporate all the senses into my writing. Descriptions of setting, for instance, are richer and more realistic if you describe the entire environment. This is a helpful article about descriptive writing and the five senses.
The five senses are also important to other creative endeavors.
Sculptors and potters use a strong sense of touch in their work. Sound is important to those who use chisels or other tools. I imagine those who work with clay enjoy that smell.
I know when I paint, just the smell of the acrylics or oils gets my creative juices flowing.
Musicians, of course, rely on sound, but the feel of the instrument is a big part of playing: the pressure of the keys on a clarinet or piano, for instance. I’m not a singer, but I imagine they feel a vibration or resonance in their throats.
Cooks use all the senses: the sizzle of the onions striking a hot pan, the smell of chopped herbs, the taste of a tangy vinaigrette dressing, the blast of heat on your face when you open the oven door, and the sight of a composed salad: dark green spinach glistening with olive oil, plump red strawberries, and white crumbled feta.
Can you think of other ways the senses are used for creativity?
Linda Covella, Author 
Incorporating the senses in writing, I agree, is very important. I think you covered everything here. I remember reading a great description of a rotting body once (well, not great, but well done). The writer did an amazing job putting me at the scene where this body was found — to the point I became invested in wanting the killer to be found and punished — but I can’t remember the title. So, here is one way to use the senses: to attract as well as spook the reader. 🙂
Silvia, I don’t know if I’d want a good writer for *that* description. LOL
🙂
I do my best to use all the senses when writing, and often, I wonder if I’m remembering taste. That seems to be the one that people often over look when writing.
~Patricia Lynne~
Story Dam
Patricia Lynne, YA Author
Patricia, I think a lot of writers (me!) forget smell, too.
Hi LInda! I’ve seen your name all over the comments on the other blogs I visit, so I thought it was mighty well time I came over – and I’m glad I did! Great post about the senses! I think my favourite one is smell, though it’s something I have to keep reminding myself to pay attention to as well.
I’m late in following your A-Z (I’m participating too, with a writing/life theme) but I’m looking forward to reading your final week. 😀
Linda, thanks for stopping by! I now found your blog, too, 🙂 and loved your Survey idea for developing characters. Good luck in the last week of A to Z!
Good luck to you too! I’m not sure if I’ll be happy or sad to see the first of May. haha
I know what you mean, Linda. 🙂