1

CREATIVE WRITING
LESSON 2: SENSORY EXPERIENCE, LANGUAGE
MODULE 1

I. SENSORY DETAILS

The words or phrases that describe the context of the vividly are sensory details. Sensory
details add power to writing. They give more concrete sensory experience that allows a
reader to have a clear mental picture of the scene or subject being described. Without
visual details, writing would be dull and plain. In creative writing, one must always
remember to use words or phrases that appeal to the five senses to sustain the interest of
the readers. Sensory details can make the reader see, hear, touch, taste, and smell the
object being described.

Sample text with Sensory Detail

“The studio was filled with the rich odor of roses, and when the light summer wind
stirred amidst the trees of the garden, there came through the open door the heavy scent
of the lilac or the most delicate perfume of the pink flowering thorn.”

Boost yourself
From the two pictures shown below, which is more appealing to you? Why?

SUBJECT: CREATIVE WRITING

PREPARED BY: RICH CATIGAN
 2
II. LANGUANGE

A. Imagery
It means to use figurative language to represent objects, actions, and ideas in such a way that it appeals to
our physical senses. Usually, it is thought that imagery makes use of particular words that create visual
representation of ideas in our minds.

Example:
The poem "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud" by William Wordsworth uses imagery throughout:

A host, of golden daffodils;

Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.
Continuous as the stars that shine
And twinkle on the milky way,
They stretched in never-ending line
Along the margin of a bay:
Ten thousand saw I at a glance,
Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

B. FIGURES OF SPEECH

C. DICTION
It can be defined as a style of speaking or writing, determined by the choice of words by a speaker or a
writer. Diction or choice of words often separates good writing from bad writing. It depends on a number of
SUBJECT: CREATIVE WRITING
PREPARED BY: RICH CATIGAN
 3
factors. Firstly, the word has to be right and accurate. Secondly, words should be such that the listener or
reader understands easily. It also shows the level of formality of a text which helps in shaping the
perception and view of the readers.
TYPES OF DICTION
a. Formal Diction – formal words are used in formal situations, such as press conferences and
presentations.
b. Informal Diction – uses informal words and conversation, such as writing or talking to friends.
c. Colloquial Diction – uses words common in everyday speech which may be different in different
regions or community.
d. Slang Diction – the use of words that are newly coined, or even impolite.

Seatwork # 2

A. Analyze the poem and identify the types of imagery used.

B. Write a sample sentence that corresponds to the figurative languages enumerated below. Use
the word stated below in your sentence.
Figurative Language
Sentence
Simile
Metaphor
Personification

SUBJECT: CREATIVE WRITING

PREPARED BY: RICH CATIGAN
 4
Hyperbole
Alliteration
Allusion
Onomatopoeia

C. Think of four words and write the words in formal, informal, and slang diction. An example is
given as your guide.

Formal Diction Informal Diction Colloquial/Slang Diction

Money Cash Bucks

Assignment # 2:
Write an essay employing the figurative language discussed earlier. Use informal diction in your essay.
Choose from the following suggested subjects or topics:

1. Riding on a jeepney
2. Going to church
3. Attending a party
4. Swimming on a beach
5. Watching your favorite movie
6. Reading your favorite novel
7. Eating your favorite dish
8. Listening to your favorite song
9. Preparing your favorite dish
10. Visiting a new place

SUBJECT: CREATIVE WRITING

PREPARED BY: RICH CATIGAN