How to Write Dialogue in Novel Writing
Revealing Characterisation Through Speech in Literary Fiction
May 11, 2009
How to Emulate Natural Conversation in Fiction
Real life dialogue contains repetition, interruptions and irrelevances. If transcribed and grafted into a fiction novel, it will result in a tedious read. Intercourse between fictional characters should contain the essence of real life speech, but one that is compelling and moves the story along. A good practice for the beginner, is to record (with permission) a conversation, cut out the deadwood then transcribe. Pare it down further to the barest minimum. This will help develop a feel for convincing fictional dialogue.
When to Use Dialogue
Dialogue must have a purpose.
- Move the story forward.
- Reveal essence of the character.
- Give important information.
If a piece of dialogue does none of these, it might be worth cutting it out.
Making Dialogue Reveal Character
The following is an example of how not to write dialogue.
“I’ve got you something to eat and I’ve got you books.”
“Let me go. I’ve been here six week now.”
“The police are in the area, so you’d better not let on we’re here.”
“I promise I won’t press charges. My father is rich, but he can be reasoned with.”
“I plan to contact him this evening.”
- The dialogue contrives to impart information for the sake of the plot. It sounds forced.
- Both speakers sound stilted, and could almost be the same person
- There is no tension and no subtext. Subtext means by what is being said by action. In terms of speech, less is more.
- If the dialogue carries on in this manner, the reader will lose track of who is speaking.
Create Tension and Drama with Discourse
The following example is an improvement.
“Here,” he said. “I’ve got you somethin’ to put on your feet.” He slid a pair of slippers across the floor. “And I’ve got you books.”
Jess didn’t move or look at them. “Let me go.”
Jake stood against the wall, looking down at her. His shadow spilled out from behind him. “You know I can’t do that,” he said firmly.
“Why?”
“There’s no going back; you should know that now.”
- The dialogue has been pared down to the minimum. Every spoken word becomes significant.
- The style of speech and dialect reveals each character.
- There is a real tension, suppressed emotion and a battle of power. Information has been held back from the reader and from the captive.
- The dialogue is enhanced by action and description, and minimal use of attributive verbs.
Using Attributive Verbs in Speech Such as Said
There is nothing wrong with the verb “said,” if no other word will do, and is less obtrusive than alternatives for the sake of it. But the attributive verb should be omitted if it is already clear who is speaking and how the words are being said. The following verbs could be used if it adds colour to the discourse: expounded, lied, shouted, whispered, drawled, croaked, groaned, slurred, stuttered etc.
Create Compelling Speech Between Fictional Characters
Discourse provides contrast against action and description within a novel and moves the story along. Care must be taken that it does not sound contrived for the sake of the plot. Every word spoken must serve a purpose without seeming to. This means revealing character, imparting information and moving the plot along. It must also compel the reader and make them want to turn the page.
In most cases, dialogue forms an essential part of a novel. It breaks description and action and increases pace. Careful thought therefore needs to be given to when, where and how much dialogue is needed.
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