Chapter 1: Understanding the Dynamics of Dialogue

To elevate your dialogue, consider employing a technique often used by actors. This approach can significantly enhance the vibrancy and authenticity of your conversations.

Whenever a character enters or exits a scene, it marks a shift in relationships. In theatrical terms, we refer to this as a French scene. While it may not be explicitly indicated in a script, actors and directors recognize that each entrance or exit alters the dynamics between characters.

For instance, picture two teenage girls in a bedroom discussing Chunk Squarejaw, the dashing quarterback of their high school. Can you imagine their voices and word choices as they share their thoughts? Now, envision the moment when Dad steps into the room and asks, "Have you completed your homework yet?"

The precise tone of his voice is less important than the fact that he has entered the scene. Notice how the interaction between the girls changes—both in the words they choose and how they communicate with Dad. This shift illustrates how an entrance can modify the relationship dynamics.

If this were a script, we might label the girls’ interaction as "French Scene One." The moment Dad enters, it transitions to "Scene Two." While you wouldn’t explicitly mark this in your manuscript, it’s a helpful framework for considering how dialogue evolves.

In Scene Two, the conversation includes Dad, and once he leaves, "Scene Three" commences, prompting yet another change in language and tone. Each entry or exit influences dialogue and character relationships, providing a foundation for crafting engaging and realistic exchanges.

Hi, I’m Tom Leveen, an award-winning novelist with a portfolio of nine novels published by prominent imprints like Penguin Random House and Simon & Schuster. Additionally, I bring over two decades of experience as an actor, director, and artistic director in live theater.

If you found this article beneficial, I invite you to explore my book, How To Write Awesome Dialogue! For Fiction, Film & Theatre. It offers a wealth of practical advice to help your dialogue resonate with editors, agents, and readers alike.

This video, "10 Tips for Writing Strong Dialogue," presents practical strategies to enhance your dialogue writing skills.

Chapter 2: Crafting Realistic Conversations

Dialogue is not just about words; it’s about the relationships between characters. When you understand how interactions change with each entrance and exit, you can create more compelling narratives.

In this video, "Write Better Dialogue in 8 Minutes," you’ll learn quick yet effective techniques for improving your dialogue writing.