Embedded Files
Humans are social creatures, and writers can use dialogue to capture the many types of communication between them.
Humans are social creatures, and writers can use dialogue to capture the many types of communication between them.
Dialogue - the representation of verbal and nonverbal communication between characters.
Introduction
Introduction
While we are all used to verbal and nonverbal interactions in our daily lives, it can be surprisingly tricky to capture the essence of this communication in writing.
However, given the significance of dialogue in storytelling, it is important that we communicate the nuances of human communication as authentically as possible in our writing.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistakes
There are a number of simple errors that many writers make when attempting to capture the nuances of conversation in writing.
Note each of the common mistakes below, and remember to avoid them when crafting your own dialogue.
Paragraph Formatting
Paragraph Formatting
Always transition to a new paragraph when a new character speaks, otherwise it can be difficult to keep track of who is talking.
Incorrect
"What time does the movie start?" Harry asked. "7 o'clock." Sally replied. "Should we have dinner at home or at a restaurant?" "It depends, do you feel like cooking?" "Not really."
Correct
"What time does the movie start?" Harry asked.
"7 o'clock," Sally replied.
"Should we have dinner at home or at a restaurant?"
"It depends, do you feel like cooking?"
"Not really."
Unnecessary Words
Unnecessary Words
It is not always necessary to use verbs such as said, told or asked when writing dialogue.
In addition, we do not need to state explicitly who is speaking unless the reader may be unsure.
Unnecessary
"Could I have a coffee please?" the customer asked.
"Sure, that will be $3," the server replied.
The customer said, "Thanks."
"You're welcome. Would you like it to have here or take away?" the server inquired.
"Have here, please," the customer answered.
More elegant
The server looked up as the customer approached the counter.
"Could I have a coffee please?"
"Sure, that will be $3"
"Thanks"
"You're welcome. Would you like it to have here or take away?"
"Have here, please."
Direct and Indirect Speech
Direct and Indirect Speech
When crafting dialogue, writers can choose how directly to put words into the mouths of their characters.
If it is important that the audience hear exactly what the character is saying, this language should be transcribed directly with quotation marks using direct speech.
If a simple summary is sufficient to advance the scene, indirect or reported speech can be used.
Direct Speech
The soldier approached her commanding officer, saluted, and gave her report: "The enemy attacked at 15:00 hours. The attack was repulsed with minimal casualties and we pursued them in their retreat."
Indirect Speech
The soldier approached her commanding officer, saluted, and explained what happened during the attack.
In general, it is better to use direct speech when writing dialogue as this offers a more authentic experience for the reader.
That said, there are times when one character needs to update another on some recent information that the reader is already aware of. In such cases, reported speech is acceptable as this will save time and words.
Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
While it is important to let readers know what characters are saying, much of the transmission of information between humans comes from nonverbal communication such as gestures, reactions and facial expressions.
Making references to such communication helps to pace dialogue in more interesting ways, and also allows readers 'picture' a conversation in their own minds.
Consider Khaled Hosseini's effective use of both verbal and nonverbal communication in his 2003 novel The Kite Runner:
‘Amir agha and I are friends,’ Hassan said. He looked flushed.
‘Friends?’ Assef said, laughing. ‘You pathetic fool! Someday you’ll wake up from your little fantasy and learn just how good of a friend he is. Now, bas! Enough of this. Give us that kite.’
Hassan stooped and picked up a rock.
Assef flinched. He began to take a step back, stopped. ‘Last chance, Hazara.’
Hassan’s answer was to cock the arm that held the rock.
‘Whatever you wish.’ Assef unbuttoned his winter coat, took it off, folded it slowly and deliberately. He placed it against the wall.
Note how Hosseini makes references to the characters facial expressions (He looked flushed), actions (Hassan stooped and picked up a rock) and reactions (Assef flinched) to create a more natural flow to the conversation. This avoids dialogue becoming too "talky", which can be monotonous for the reader.
Google Sites
Report abuse