Letting characters speak for themselves is a creative way to “show” a story versus “tell” a story. Just remember, no two people really speak the same way.

The magical chemistry that occurs between people is reflected in their dialogue. The more dynamic and interesting their connection is, the more dynamic and interesting their words are. Dialogue is an elemental co-production, a sparkling co-creation between people. It’s a chemical reaction, the final product of which is determined in real time depending on what each person contributes. It’s a force with the power to transform the contributors. It’s the thing that makes us human.

A story can have so many different types of narrators, but sometimes the most interesting way to tell a story is to set the narrator aside completely and let the characters speak for themselves. Consider writing a story composed entirely of dialogue⏤a script, essentially. This form of storytelling has become one of the most common and most popular. Every television show, movie, and theatrical production relies on it. 

It’s easiest to start with just two characters speaking directly to each other but feel free to add more if you feel up to it. Here are some potential places to set your characters and some seeds for creating a sparkling dialogue between them:

Location of CharactersTopic of Discussion
At a work eventA misunderstanding handled playfully
In a sea of peopleAn initial encounter
At a family gatheringA deeply important request
On the beachA statement of intention
In the bedroomA discussion of desired outcomes
In between meetingsA revealing of a secret
At the dog parkA moment of extreme vulnerability and trust
In the middle of the woodsThe sharing of a deeply-held belief
On the trainWords of encouragement
At the libraryA promise, a commitment, a verbal pact

Copyright 2023 Kesel Wilson (entirely, 100% human-created)

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