1.2 KiB
1.2 KiB
Workshop Dialog
Purpose
Refine dialog for authenticity, character voice, and dramatic effectiveness.
Process
1. Voice Audit
For each character, assess:
- Vocabulary level and word choice
- Sentence structure preferences
- Speech rhythms and patterns
- Catchphrases or verbal tics
- Educational/cultural markers
- Emotional expression style
2. Subtext Analysis
For each exchange:
- What's being said directly
- What's really being communicated
- Power dynamics at play
- Emotional undercurrents
- Character objectives
- Obstacles to directness
3. Flow Enhancement
- Remove unnecessary dialogue tags
- Vary attribution methods
- Add action beats
- Incorporate silence/pauses
- Balance dialog with narrative
- Ensure natural interruptions
4. Conflict Injection
Where dialog lacks tension:
- Add opposing goals
- Insert misunderstandings
- Create subtext conflicts
- Use indirect responses
- Build through escalation
- Add environmental pressure
5. Polish Pass
- Read aloud for rhythm
- Check period authenticity
- Verify character consistency
- Eliminate on-the-nose dialog
- Strengthen opening/closing lines
- Add distinctive character markers
Output
Refined dialog with stronger voices and dramatic impact