“What a beautiful place. A single, grand tree stands in the middle of a vast field of flowers. Beneath it, the perfect shade awaits.”

If a story opened with such a touching scene, wouldn’t you feel drawn in—eager to read more? Today, I’d like to share a simple but powerful writing technique: starting with an emotional moment.

This approach is similar to a movie trailer. By giving a glimpse of the most memorable scene right at the beginning, you spark the reader’s curiosity and make them want to see the whole picture. When the opening grabs their attention, even a slower middle section won’t stop them from reading on—they’ll want to return to that emotional high.

This technique works especially well when you’re writing about a trip that had just one truly moving moment. Rather than telling the story in chronological order, begin with that unforgettable scene. You’ll greatly increase the chance that your reader stays with you through to the end.