I read somewhere a remark from an editor that went something like this: "I know it's an amateur's work when I can't smell anything."

That line really stuck with me. Because words are a visual medium, and when I write I am visualizing the scene and translating it into words, I forget to include the other senses.

I'm sure I'm not alone in this. I have seen entire stories where the hero doesn't hear, smell, touch, or taste anything. When you read them, you can tell there is something missing -- they just don't feel "alive". It's like watching from the sidelines instead of being there and experiencing it.

Most of us manage to slip in some sounds, and occasionally some tactile sensations, but rarely do we stick in odors. Yet smells create the most immediate emotions.

Another thing I read was you should appeal to at least 3 senses in a scene to make it seem real. It can be any 3 of the 5.

When I look at professional writing, I see this. The best authors put you in their scenes by serving you a sensual buffet.