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Dialogue should sound natural and move the story forward from "summary" of On Writing by Stephen King
Dialogue, when done right, should sound like real people talking. It should flow naturally, with the characters speaking in a way that reflects their personalities and backgrounds. As a writer, it's important to pay attention to how people actually speak in order to create authentic dialogue. One of the key functions of dialogue is to move the story forward. It should serve a purpose beyond just filling space on the page. Dialogue can reveal important information about the characters, their motivations, and their relationships with one another. It can also be used to advance the plot, creating tension and conflict that drives the narrative forward. When writing dialogue, it's important to remember that not every conversation needs to be included in its entirety. In real life, people often talk in circles, repeating themselves or going off on tangents. As a writer, you can cut out the unnecessary parts of a conversation to keep the story moving at a steady pace. Dialogue should also be consistent with the tone and style of the rest of the narrative. If the story is lighthearted and humorous, the dialogue should reflect that. On the other hand, if the story is dark and serious, the dialogue should be too. Consistency in tone helps to create a cohesive reading experience for the audience. Transition words and phrases can be used to link dialogue to the surrounding narrative, helping to maintain coherence and logical sequencing. These transitions can also help to guide the reader through the story, signaling shifts in time, setting, or perspective. By paying attention to these elements of dialogue, writers can create conversations that feel natural and engaging, while also serving a vital role in advancing the story. Remember that dialogue is a powerful tool in your writer's toolbox – use it wisely to bring your characters and their world to life.
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