Spencer Lanoue
Writing dialogue between characters can seem challenging, but it doesn't have to be. If you've ever struggled to bring your characters' conversations to life, you're not alone. This guide will help you craft dialogue that not only sounds natural but also serves your story. Let's dive into the nuances of writing engaging and realistic conversations between two characters.
Creating Authentic Voices for Characters
Imagine you've just met someone new. You quickly notice their mannerisms, speech patterns, and the little quirks that make them unique. Your characters should be the same way. Giving each character a distinct voice is crucial for making your dialogue stand out.
Start by considering your characters' backgrounds, personalities, and motivations. A character's voice is shaped by their experiences, education, and environment. For instance, a scientist might use technical jargon, while a teenager might rely on slang. Here's an example:
Dr. Smith: "The polymerase chain reaction is critical for amplifying DNA strands."
Alex: "Whoa, that's some serious science talk, Doc!"
Notice how Dr. Smith's language reflects his expertise, while Alex's response shows a more casual demeanor. This contrast not only highlights their backgrounds but also makes the dialogue more engaging.
Using Dialogue to Show, Not Tell
Dialogue is a powerful tool for revealing character and moving the plot forward. Instead of telling the reader about a character's traits or emotions, show them through conversations. For example:
Sarah: "I can't believe you stood me up. Again."
Mike: "I got caught up at work. You know how demanding it is."
Sarah: "Always an excuse. Maybe your job is more important than us."
In this exchange, you learn about the tension between Sarah and Mike without needing a narrator to explain it. Their words reveal their priorities and frustrations, allowing readers to infer the relationship dynamics.
Making Conversations Relevant to the Plot
Every line of dialogue should serve a purpose. Whether it's advancing the plot, developing character, or adding tension, avoid including exchanges that don't contribute to the story. Consider this:
Tim: "Did you hear about the new coffee shop downtown?"
Jen: "Yeah, I heard they have great lattes."
While this might be realistic small talk, it doesn't add value to the narrative. Instead, strive for exchanges that tie into the plot:
Tim: "Did you hear about the new coffee shop? It's where the meeting is tonight."
Jen: "Seriously? I thought we were meeting at the office."
This version introduces a plot point and sets the stage for future scenes, making the dialogue more meaningful.
Balancing Dialogue with Action and Description
Dialogue should be interspersed with actions and descriptions to create a vivid scene. This balance helps avoid a "talking heads" scenario where characters seem to be floating in space. Here's an example:
Lily: "Are you coming to the party?"
John glanced at his watch, hesitating. "I don't know. I have a lot to do."
Lily frowned, crossing her arms. "You've been avoiding these things lately."
The actions and descriptions add depth, grounding the conversation in a physical space and providing insight into the characters' emotions.
Writing Natural-Sounding Dialogue
Realistic dialogue often involves imperfect speech, such as interruptions, unfinished sentences, and colloquialisms. Pay attention to how people speak in everyday life. Here’s how you can apply this:
Tom: "So, I was thinking we could—"
Anna: "Wait, did you hear that?"
Tom: "Hear what?"
The interruption and short exchanges mimic real conversation patterns, making the dialogue feel more authentic.
Using Subtext for Depth
Not everything needs to be said directly. Subtext allows characters to imply or hint at their true feelings without stating them outright. This adds complexity and tension to the dialogue. Consider this:
Mark: "I see you're spending a lot of time with Lisa."
Paul: "She's a good friend."
Mark: "Just a friend?"
Paul: "What else would she be?"
The subtext in this exchange suggests that there's more to Paul's relationship with Lisa than he's admitting, creating intrigue and tension.
Avoiding Exposition Dumps
Avoid using dialogue to unload large chunks of information. This can feel unnatural and slow down the story. Instead, weave in details gradually and organically:
Detective: "We've got a new lead on the case."
Officer: "The one about the missing necklace?"
Detective: "Yeah, turns out the gardener saw something suspicious."
This approach keeps the conversation flowing while gradually revealing important plot points.
Editing and Refining Dialogue
Once you've written your dialogue, read it aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or unnatural exchanges. Listening to the rhythm of the conversation helps identify areas that need improvement.
Additionally, consider using a tool like Spell for refining your dialogue. It can help you draft and edit conversations quickly, ensuring they sound polished and engaging.
Practicing Writing Dialogue
Like any skill, writing dialogue improves with practice. Try writing short scenes focused solely on conversation. Experiment with different character dynamics, settings, and tones. This practice can help you develop a more intuitive sense of how dialogue works.
Don't be afraid to play with different styles and voices until you find what feels natural for your characters. Over time, you'll find your characters' voices emerging more clearly.
Final Thoughts
Crafting realistic dialogue is an art that enhances storytelling by bringing characters to life and moving the plot forward. It takes practice, but the payoff is worth it. Remember, tools like Spell can assist in refining your dialogue, making the process smoother and more efficient. With these tips, you're well on your way to writing conversations that captivate and resonate with readers.
