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I am learning/ trying to write a novel but I'm facing this problem. Whenever sound comes from somewhere (for example, from behind a closed door), I don't know how to describe it. I just end up writing "came from behind the closed door." What are some better ways to write these? Another example:

Suddenly, a loud shriek came from behind the locked door.

Arcweeb
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2 Answers2

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Color:

I don't think there is anything wrong with saying that a noise came from somewhere. But I'm guessing you mostly find this boring. Usually, the source of a noise is either clear or not significant.

  • Locate it by character action: The characters hear a rattle, and move towards the source of the sound, attempting to open the door which stubbornly resists all attempts to open. The characters face the door as the demonic wail howls.
  • The Door is the source: The door whispers softly, or reverberates with the loud pounding. The frame rattles and shakes, and the door trembles.
  • Colorful language: The hum emanates from the direction of the door. The whisper seems to creep out from under the door. The bang travels through the door like it wasn't there. The door holds back the horrifying sound.
DWKraus
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Suddenly, an eldritch shriek curdled the air. I whisked around, but the room was empty... unless there was someone on the other side of my bedroom door.

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My hands flew to my ears at the sound of a scream overhead. Bethany glanced over from her salad, concerned. "You okay, dude?"

"Yeah. Did you hear that?"

"Hear what?"

I don't answer her. My eyes are fixed skyward, but whatever made the noise is already long gone.

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The screaming follows me all day, belting out screeches at random times. Whether it's a hallucination or a ghost, I don't know, but it sure makes the school a whole lot more sinister.

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Here are just some descriptions I came up with. Sound can be described in more than one way: pitch, volume, tone, direction, distance, how resonant it is, context, how the protagonist reacts, and how others react, to name a few. Instead of focusing only on where the sound is, perhaps you can try making it interesting by adding other important details. (Similes and metaphors, too, if they're not cliched)

I'm just a 15 y/o writer myself and this might not be professional advice, it' just my own opinion - but I hope you found this helpful! Have fun writing :D

Hannah
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