Words That Do Work
It’s easy to think of words as mere conduits for information, sounds that pass from one character to another, carrying the story along. We often underestimate the true power of spoken exchange, reducing it to simple exposition or friendly chatter. Yet, in the nuanced world of narrative, dialogue isn’t just a vehicle for facts; it’s a tool, a weapon, a shield, a confession. It’s a dynamic force, a form of action itself, capable of transforming a narrative with a single, well-placed phrase. The magic of compelling storytelling often lies not just in what happens, but in how characters speak, what they reveal, and crucially, what they hold back.
Unveiling the Inner Life
Unlike a narrator who can tell us directly about a character’s fears or desires, dialogue offers us a direct window into their psyche, unfiltered by external description. Think about the people you know in your own life. Each person has a unique way of speaking – a particular rhythm, a set of preferred words, a tendency to interrupt or hesitate, a specific way they handle conflict or express affection. These aren’t just quirks; they are reflections of their personality, their background, their emotional state. In writing, authentic dialogue mirrors this reality. A character’s unique
character voice
emerges through their word choices: a scholar might use precise, complex vocabulary, while a street-smart kid might employ slang and clipped sentences. Someone guarded might speak in short, evasive phrases, while an open character might ramble. It’s not about perfect grammar; it’s about perfect fit. By allowing your characters to speak authentically, you don’t just tell your audience who they are; you show them, line by line, allowing their true selves to unfurl organically before the reader’s eyes.
Conversations That Move
Beyond revealing who a character is, dialogue serves another critical purpose: it propels the
plot advancement
. Many aspiring writers fall into the trap of using dialogue solely for exposition, spoon-feeding background information to the reader. While some information exchange is inevitable, the most impactful dialogue does more than inform; it acts. A heated argument can shatter a relationship and force a character onto a new path. A quiet confession can reveal a crucial secret that unravels a mystery. A desperate plea can change the course of events. Consider a scene where a character needs to convince another to join them on a dangerous quest. Their dialogue isn’t just a conversation; it’s a negotiation, a test of wills, a moment of persuasion that, if successful, fundamentally shifts the story’s trajectory. Every line spoken, every challenge issued, every promise made or broken through dialogue, should push the narrative forward, creating new obstacles or opening new doors.
The Art of What’s Unsaid
The truest mark of
authentic conversations
in storytelling often lies not in the words themselves, but in the silence between them, the hesitation, the unspoken implications – what we call subtext. In real life, people rarely say exactly what they mean, especially when emotions run high or stakes are significant. They imply, they hint, they avoid, they project. Mastering subtext means understanding that a simple “I’m fine” can carry a world of unspoken pain, or a seemingly innocuous question can be a veiled accusation. This is where dialogue truly shines in the realm of
showing not telling
. Instead of explicitly stating that a character is angry, let them speak in clipped, overly polite tones. Instead of telling us two characters are attracted, let their words dance around the subject, filled with nervous laughter or lingering pauses. This layer of unspoken meaning adds depth, tension, and realism, forcing your audience to engage more deeply, to read between the lines and infer the true emotional landscape of the scene.
Making Every Word Count
Ultimately, powerful dialogue is about conciseness and impact. In a story, every word must earn its place. Unlike casual conversation, which can meander, fictional dialogue should be purposeful. Avoid unnecessary pleasantries or filler. Each line should either reveal character, advance the plot, or build the world. This doesn’t mean dialogue should feel unnatural; it means it should be distilled to its most potent form, stripping away the superfluous to leave only the essence of communication. Whether it’s a quick retort, a heartfelt declaration, or a loaded silence, dialogue is a vital, active component of your storytelling arsenal. Learn to wield it with precision, and your characters won’t just speak; they’ll live, they’ll act, and they’ll leave your audience hanging on every word.
This summer, our arts program is a vibrant hub for artists and the arts sector across Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Northwestern Ontario. We’re providing professional development and storytelling opportunities, with the goal of equipping artists with the tools they need to grow and succeed. This entire initiative is made possible thanks to the support of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and the Ontario Arts Council, whose funding is helping to support this season’s valuable mentorship and internship program.
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