Writing Realistic Anger: A Basic Guide for Storytellers

chloeann6048
Mar 4
3 min read

Anger is described as an intense emotional state involving a strong uncomfortable and non-cooperative response to a perceived provocation, hurt, or threat.

It can be caused by external or internal events. Your character could be angry at a specific person, event, or themself.

In this post, I aim to go through the body language and facial expressions of anger. As well as, how anger would be shown in speech and what it would feel like.

Body Language

Those who are angry, especially aggressively angry, will try to make themselves seem bigger. They can do this by puffing out their chest, lifting their chin, putting their hands on their hips, spreading their feet apart, etc.
Others, especially the timid types, will retract. They will cross their arms and lower their chin to glare upwards.
Some people freeze with anger and go rigid.
People can get reckless in anger, and use large, rapid movements. This can cause them to break things, even if by accident.
Characters may cry, and flick or wipe the tears away with force.
Ball their fists by their sides, cross their arms that end in fists, or ball their fists on their hips.
They could punch or kick objects, walls, or other characters.
People who are angry typically slam doors and throw or smash things.
Rub their temples or neck, or run their hands through their hair.
Pointing, often aggressively. They could also jab or press a finger on another characters chest.
Hold their hands forward in a ‘stop’ sign.
They will invade others personal space.
Some may show compulsive behaviour, like cleaning or tiding to calm themselves.
People can become clumsy when angry.
Shaking
Tensed muscles.
They will get a surge of adrenaline, which can lead to fidgeting.
Characters may use mocking actions, such as sarcastic laughter, rude hand signs, etc.

Speech

Some may spit when speaking or shouting.
Characters may hiss through their teeth.
They may repeat themselves.
Many lose the ability to articulate well when they are angry, while others speak more clearly. Timid characters may become braver and say things they wouldn’t normally say.
Characters may not allow the other person to speak and keep interrupting them.
They may use belittling or provoking phrases.
Some may start talking sarcastically and/or use sarcastic jokes.
Characters who are angry may start making threats or accusations.