Writing Tip: Focus on Dialogue
Dialogue is arguably the heartbeat of storytelling, breathing life into characters and propelling narratives forward. Writing authentic conversations is a skill that can transform our characters from figures on the page into living, breathing personalities. So, how can we craft dialogue that feels real and resonates with readers? Let's dive in, and I've got a fun exercise at the end.
The Importance of Authentic Dialogue
Character Expression and Individuality
Authentic conversations showcase the quirks, nuances, and distinct personalities of each character. From the choice of words to the cadence of speech, dialogue reveals the essence of individuals, making them memorable and relatable. Ideally, we should be able to tell who’s talking, even without a dialogue tag to tell us.
Advancing Plot and Revealing Information
Dialogue is not just idle chit-chat—it's one of the primary tools we use to advance the plot. Through conversations, crucial information can be revealed and relationships can evolve. Info-dumping in the form of exposition can feel especially heavy and disengaging as a reader, but the same information can be shared through dialogue and we’re totally open to hearing it.
Creating Atmosphere and Setting
The way characters speak can evoke the setting and atmosphere of a story. Whether it's the rapid-fire exchanges of a bustling city or the leisurely drawl of a Southern town, dialogue contributes to the overall ambiance. It immerses readers in the world you've crafted, making it vivid and authentic.
Tips for Crafting Authentic Dialogue
Listen and Observe
The first rule of crafting authentic dialogue is to be a keen observer of real-life conversations. Pay attention to the rhythm, cadence, and idiosyncrasies of how real people speak. Incorporate the natural flow of conversation, complete with interruptions, pauses, and the occasional overlap of voices. I love people-watching as inspiration for my writing.
Use Subtext and Unspoken Communication
Not everything needs to be said outright. Embrace subtext and unspoken communication in your dialogue. Characters may convey more through what they don't say, the pauses they take, or the meaningful glances they exchange. This adds layers of depth to conversations.
Vary Speech Patterns and Vocabulary
Each character should have a unique voice. Vary speech patterns, vocabulary, and sentence structures to reflect individual personalities. Consider factors like education, background, and experiences that would influence the way characters express themselves. From my own work, Sen (in my unpublished series, The Manifold Chronicles) is an Academy instructor, while his wife, Kami never attended Academy. He uses more academic/professional language while hers is more casual, but even beyond that, Sen’s references and topics of conversations are more varied due to his exposure to other places and people. Kami has always lived in their hometown, so what she talks about often references local people, places, events, etc.
Cut the Small Talk (Most of the Time)
While small talk has its place, be mindful of its usage. In most cases, dialogue should serve a purpose—advancing the plot, revealing character traits, or building tension. Cut unnecessary chatter and focus on dialogue that contributes meaningfully to the narrative.
Exercise: Dialogue in Action
Now, let's put these tips into practice with an exercise. Choose two characters—create them or use existing ones from your work. Set them in a specific location with a clear objective or conflict. Write a dialogue scene between them, paying attention to the authenticity of their voices, the subtext, and the purpose of the conversation. Once done, reflect on how you've applied the tips to create a compelling and genuine exchange.
Example Scene:
Characters: Emma (journalist) and Alex (mysterious informant)
Setting: Dimly lit diner, late evening
Objective: Emma seeks information from Alex about a hidden conspiracy.
Snippet:
"You said you had something big for me. Don't keep me in suspense." Emma was many things, but patient was not one of them.
Alex smirked as he sat back. "Facts are currency, love. What are you willing to trade?"
"I've got a deadline, Alex. What's the info, and how much is it going to cost me?"
"Impatient, as always. But fine. You want the mayor's dirty secrets… I've got 'em, but it won't come cheap."
"I don’t have time for this," Emma sighed. She tucked her pen in her bag for effect.
He propped his chin on his fist, calling her bluff. "You won't find a source like me, Emma. I'm your golden ticket, and you know it. Now, let's talk numbers. Cash upfront, no negotiations."
"You're a real charmer,” Emma said. “Cash upfront means I need something substantial. Give me a taste—something to show you're not just bullshitting me."
"You don't trust me, sweetheart? That stings.” Alex examined his fingernails. “But fine, I'll throw you a bone. The mayor's been funneling city funds into a secret offshore account. I've got the account number, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Wait till you see the people he’s paying off, and what he’s doing with all those funds."
Emma's eyes narrowed. "The account number, huh?” This was exactly what she needed for Frank to start putting her on the big stories. “We published a piece from an anonymous source last month about the likelihood of these accounts. I need proof, though—documents, names, dates. You provide that, and we'll talk cash. I don’t have it with me, but I can withdraw from the bank first thing in the morning, if you’ve got enough to make it worth it."
"I'll give you the proof, but you'll owe me. And trust me, I'll come collecting when the time is right." Alex's laughter bounced off the laminate tables and linoleum tile floors. “But for now, five grand should get us started.”
“No way.” Emma shut her notebook to emphasize her point. “Two thousand is the best I can do, and no additional favors.”
Alex pretended to count on his fingers. “Well that’ll hardly cover my ass if shit goes sideways, but whatever. If you can break the story and get that asshat out of office, two grand will do.”
“Good.” She extended a hand. “What do you have for me?”
Your Turn:
Try taking two of your own characters now. You can write them in any scene you’d like, but if you’re stuck or just want the challenge of following a prompt, consider putting them into the following scene:
Characters: Any two of your choice
Setting: A bus stop in a small town
Objective: One character is trying to leave, and the other wants them to stay.
Now… write!
The key to authentic dialogue is about infusing our characters' conversations with life, nuance, and purpose. By listening, observing, embracing subtext, varying speech patterns, and cutting unnecessary small talk, we can create dialogue that resonates with readers.
Happy writing!
