Na-No-Wri-Mo and Written Expression English 8 WHY We Use Dialogue Na-No-Wri-Mo and Written Expression English 8

What is dialogue? It’s when two or more characters speak to each other. We hear dialogue ALL the time. Dialogue surrounds us: “Hi, honey.” “Hi.” “Do you want cornflakes or a muffin today?” “Cornflakes.” “Ok, here you go.”

But is it worthy? Just because we all experience a lot of dialogue, that doesn’t mean it is all worthy of inclusion in your creative writing. Dialogue should: Move the story forward Increase the tension Help to define the characters OR ALL OF THE ABOVE 

Example – What is this dialogue doing?

Example – What is THIS dialogue doing?

Last Example – What is this dialogue doing?

Let’s Practice! Using the comic strip provided, as well as the two characters you drew from the envelope, try creating some dialogue that works with at least one of the 3 goals. You are not allowed to talk about breakfast cereal choices, the weather, or other things that amount to small talk!