Remember, dialogue in a story should have a purpose. It should provide information about your characters through indirect characterization. Dialogue should further the plot of your story, and it should include precise words and telling details. Choose a section of the plot (Exposition, Rising Action, Climax, Falling Action, or Resolution) where you feel dialogue would help the story progress & then answer the questions in the chart below. In which section of the plot are you adding a scene with dialogue?

Question

What is the purpose of the conversation?
What information do you want to convey to your readers?
Which characters are talking?
What is the characters’ tone?
What action(s) do the characters perform during the conversation?

Answer 1

Certainly! Here’s a breakdown of how a dialogue scene can enhance a story, using a hypothetical plot outline as reference.

Section of the Plot: Rising Action

Purpose of the Conversation: The conversation aims to deepen the tension between the two main characters and reveal their differing motivations as they face an impending crisis.

Information to Convey:

1. Character A is struggling with doubt about a risky decision they are about to make, while Character B is determined and convinced it's the right path.
2. The conflicting views add depth to their relationship and foreshadow potential conflict or collaboration later in the story.
3. Background details hint at their past experiences that shape their current perspectives and shed light on their personal stakes.

Characters Talking:

• Character A: Jamie, an aspiring artist who values caution and patience.
• Character B: Alex, Jamie's best friend, impulsive and adventurous, eager to take risks for a potential big break.

Characters’ Tone:

• Jamie's tone is hesitant and reflective, filled with insecurity.
• Alex's tone is enthusiastic and assertive, laced with urgency and a bit of frustration.

Actions Performed During the Conversation:

• Jamie paces nervously while wringing a paintbrush in their hand, symbolizing anxiety.
• Alex leans forward, gesturing emphatically, trying to make Jamie see the potential for success.
• The two occasionally make eye contact, but more often than not, Jamie looks away, conveying internal conflict and doubt.
• Alex slams a sketchbook down on the table in frustration, emphasizing their point and underscoring the tension in the moment.

This dialogue scene will help to create emotional depth and move the plot forward by clarifying the stakes and the dynamics between the characters.