Dialogue - Sets the Pace

Dialogue is a conversation between two or more characters. What brings that story to life is the character. And what brings the characters to life is dialogue. Without both you have just a bunch of rambling words on a page. Dialogue must serve a purpose. Your story should advance the story and develop character. Dialogue reveals a powerful gift. It is as simple as listening to others around you. Be aware of your surroundings. Look for over use of words.

Does your dialogue flow? When your characters talk, does it seem comfortable, easy reading?

Weave dialogue within the story. Writers have a tendency to say everything all at once. This takes away the excitement and the reader will lose interest quickly. Action helps to break up dialogue. Characters should be believable. In their speech and their actions. They should spring forth from the page. Their tone of voice, the dialect and their occupation will shine a light on their genre. Each character will develop his/ her identity. Know the market your story will be targeting for. Be sure your choice of words, such as profanity, slang or stereotype fit your story.

Summarize Dialogue in many ways:

*Use plot and conflict to further dialogue along.
*Build suspense if the story needs it.
*Well-developed scenes.
*Establish the time period.
*And very important, have well-developed characters, as life like as they possibly can be.

What I try to do when I travel is watch other people. Take notes of everything around me. Watch lots of movies and TV programs. I listen to lyrics and above all continue to learn the craft of successful writing.

I hope to hear from each one of you. Share with me how you create good dialogue.

Sharon.