How to Emotionally Engage Your Reader
A.J. Louis
Designing winning stories, and developing an AI-guide to help you overcome writer's block
?? Why Your Writing Needs More Emotion (And How to Fix It)
Ever read something so gripping that you forgot where you were? That’s the power of emotionally engaging writing. And if you want your words to matter—whether you’re writing stories, sales copy, or social posts—you need to tap into it.
Today, we’re diving into five battle-tested ways to make your readers feel something (and why that’s the secret to getting them to take action).
?? What’s in This Issue?
?? Big News: I’m Becoming a Published Comic Book Author!
This past week, I submitted one of my scripts to an upcoming anthology. And guess what? It got accepted! ?? The official announcement is still pending, but soon I’ll be able to share more details.
That’s right—I’m going to be a published comic book author this year, and I couldn’t be more excited. This is proof that putting yourself out there (even when it feels like a long shot) can pay off. More to come on this journey!
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?? 5 Ways to Emotionally Engage Your Reader
There’s a reason some writing pulls you in while others leave you scrolling. The difference? Emotional engagement. Whether you’re writing a novel, a blog post, or an investor pitch, you need your reader to feel something.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Start with a Hook that Punches the Brain
You have three seconds to grab attention. Don't waste them. Start with a powerful question, a shocking fact, or a vivid scene[5].
Neuroscientist John Medina, author of Brain Rules, explains that our brains are wired to pay attention to emotionally charged information. So, start with a powerful question, a shocking fact, or a vivid scene.
?? Example: Instead of saying, “Writing is important,” try:
?? “Your words could make someone laugh, cry, or change their life—if you know how to use them.”
2. Use Storytelling (Because Science Says So)
Stories aren't just for entertainment. They literally make us feel. Through narratives, readers can empathize with characters, learn from their experiences, and see reflections of their own lives and struggles[2].
According to research from Stanford, stories increase retention by 22x compared to plain facts. When we read a compelling story, our mirror neurons activate, making us feel as if we’re experiencing the event ourselves.
?? Example: Instead of listing facts about a product, tell the story of someone’s real transformation after using it.
3. Create Tension and Release
Great writing is not just words—it's rhythm. Introduce a problem, build anticipation, and then deliver a resolution[7].
Psychologist Kurt Lewin’s research on motivation found that unresolved tension keeps people engaged. It’s why we binge-watch TV shows. Introduce a problem, build anticipation, and then deliver a resolution.
?? Example: “Sarah’s dream job was slipping through her fingers—until she discovered one secret that changed everything.”
Now the reader has to know what the secret is.
4. Write for the Senses
Engaging writing is immersive writing. The more senses you engage, the more real your words feel[5].
?? Example: Instead of saying, “The coffee was hot,” try:
?? “The steam curled into the air as the rich, nutty aroma filled the room.”
See the difference? Your reader just experienced the coffee, not just read about it.
5. Speak Directly to the Reader
Too many writers talk at their audience instead of to them.
Make it personal. Use "you." Make the reader the main character[9].
?? Example: “This article will teach you how to write.” ?
?? “By the end of this, you’ll know exactly how to make people feel something with your words.” ?
It’s a small shift that pulls your reader into the conversation.
?? The Takeaway? Writing is an Emotional Experience
People don’t remember what you say. They remember how you made them feel.
So next time you write, don’t just give information—ignite emotions.
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?? Quick Poll: What Did You Think?
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That’s it for today. Keep writing, keep creating, and make people feel something.
Until next time,
— AJ
Citations:
CEO of Hack Latino (Techstars ‘24)
2 天前Great example, makes sense
Green Tech Entrepreneur | Project Manger| Afro-Futurist | Cultivator
3 天前Congrats on the accomplishment! Awesome to see your hard work continuing to pay off. Looking forward to reading the comic.