The environment should reflect or contrast the character's internal state.
Use long, flowing, multi-clausal sentences that meander, mirroring a mind that is lost or heavy. 6. The "So What?" Factor (Stakes) The Emotional Craft of Fiction
Using the weather (rain for sadness) is a classic trope, but Emotional Contrast is often more effective. A character receiving devastating news on a bright, beautiful spring day emphasizes their isolation from the rest of the world. The environment should reflect or contrast the character's
Emotion only lands if the reader understands what is at risk. multi-clausal sentences that meander
Characters often talk about the weather or a trivial task when they are actually grieving or terrified.
Most people avoid direct emotional confrontation in real life; your characters should too.
Use short, choppy sentences. Fragments. Rapid-fire thoughts.