Antony West (Author)

Dialogue is more than just conversation; it’s a powerful tool for character development, plot advancement, and world-building. Great dialogue reveals character through their unique voice, vocabulary, and patterns of speech, even when they’re saying very little. It should sound natural and realistic, yet be purposeful, avoiding unnecessary pleasantries that bog down the pace. Use subtext to imply unspoken emotions or hidden agendas, letting what isn’t said speak as loudly as what is. Each line should serve a function: to move the story forward, reveal character, build tension, or provide crucial information. Mastering dialogue can transform your prose, making your characters unforgettable and your scenes crackle with life. What’s a line of dialogue that always stuck with you from a book or film? Share it in the comments.