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Writing Prompt #2646
"I'm trying new things."
"Illegal things?"
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writing-promptsss · 3 days
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Prompt #7
"I don't want to lose him, you know? I shared  everything with him. Everything became intertwined with his presence. Everywhere I go, it reminds me of him."
"Don't worry! I'm sure he will not leave you. What did you do that makes you think so?"
"I yelled at him for getting his wet food all over the place."
"...who are we talking about?"
"My cat."
@largefluff something to cheer you up! <3
If you like my work consider buying me a coffee.
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novlr · 2 days
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The Writer's Guide to Mastering Dialogue
You've heard it a thousand times—show, don't tell. One of the most effective ways to do this in your writing is through dialogue. Dialogue helps bring your story and characters to life, propels the action forward, and engages readers. But crafting realistic, compelling dialogue is an art form that takes practice. Don't worry, Rin's got you covered. In this guide, you'll discover techniques for writing dialogue that sparkles. You'll learn how to make conversations sound natural, differentiate character voices, convey subtext and emotion, and use dialog for exposition. By the end, you'll be writing dialogue with confidence and watching your characters come to life on the page. So grab a cup of coffee or mocha (my favorite), settle in, and let's chat about the art of conversation.
Why Dialogue Matters in Your Novel
Dialogue is one of the most powerful tools in a writer's arsenal. It brings your story to life and creates realistic characters that readers can connect with. If you want to master the art of fiction writing, you need to know how to write compelling dialogue.
Dialogue reveals character and moves the story forward. Through dialogue, readers get a sense of your characters' personalities, backgrounds, and motivations. It's a chance to show, not tell, what your characters are like. Dialogue also propels the action and builds suspense, as characters chat about the events unfolding in the story.
There are a few keys to crafting believable and engaging dialog:
•Make it sound natural. Listen to real conversations for inspiration. Dialogue should flow and feel spontaneous, not stiff or forced. Use contractions, interruptions, and imperfect speech.
•Give each character a unique voice. The way people speak depends a lot on their background, education level, profession, and personality. Capture the subtleties of different speaking styles to bring your characters to life.
•Use dialogue tags and actions. Adding "he said/she said" and descriptions of characters' actions and expressions during conversations helps readers keep track of who's talking and provides context. Use a variety of tags like asked, exclaimed, and murmured.
•Move the conversation along. Keep dialog concise and avoid unnecessary filler words. Get to the point so readers stay interested in what's being said. Dialogue should always move the story forward.
•Show tension and conflict. Interesting conversations often involve disagreement, sarcasm, arguing, or questioning. Create tension through dialogue to keep readers engaged.
With the right techniques, you can make dialogue a pivotal part of your story. So listen, observe, and practice the art of great conversation - your readers will thank you!
Developing Distinctive Character Voices Through Dialogue
To develop distinctive voices for your characters, focus on how they speak. Dialogue is one of the best ways to bring your characters to life and propel your story forward.
Pay attention to your characters’ backgrounds, experiences, education levels, and attitudes. All of these factors influence how people talk in real life, so apply that to your characters. Maybe your wise-cracking character uses a lot of humor and sarcasm, while your shy character speaks hesitantly in short sentences.
Listen for speech patterns, accents, and catchphrases in real conversations and note them for inspiration. Capture the rhythm and flow of natural dialogue.
Give each character their own vocabulary based on their interests, jobs, and lifestyles. The tech geek’s dialogue will differ from the history professor’s.
Establish characters’ voices from their first lines of dialog. Look for a memorable way for them to express themselves. The impatient character may frequently use phrases like “spit it out already!” while the pessimist’s go-to is “what could possibly go wrong?”
Use dialog to reveal aspects of characters’ personalities and backgrounds without telling readers directly. Show, don’t tell. For example, a character who says “please” and “thank you” in every sentence likely has a polite and courteous nature.
Read dialogue aloud to make sure it sounds natural. Get friends or family members to read different characters’ lines. If anything sounds off, rework it.
With practice, crafting distinct voices for your characters through dialog will become second nature. Your characters' voices, conveyed through the words they say and the way they say them, will make your story come alive for readers. So take the time to get to know your characters by how they speak. Their voices are worth developing.
Using Dialogue to Reveal Character
Reveal Character Through Dialogue
Dialog is one of the best ways to reveal details about your characters and show their personalities. Carefully crafted conversations can expose a character's background, values, education level, and more without telling the reader outright.
As your characters talk, think about what kinds of words and phrases they would use based on who they are. An older British gentleman will speak very differently than a teenage skateboarder from California. Listen to people with similar backgrounds and life experiences to your characters for inspiration.
Also consider:
The rhythm and cadence of their speech. Do they speak quickly or slowly? Formally or casually?
Their vocabulary. Does your character use complex words and jargon or simpler language?
Grammar and pronunciation. Does your character follow the rules or have their own way of speaking?
For example, here's a short exchange that shows the contrast between two characters:
Jenny (teenage skateboarder): "Hey, you gonna drop in on the half pipe today or just pose by the ramp again?"
Mr. Edwards (older British gentleman): "I'm afraid vert skating is a young man's game, my dear. I'm quite content to watch you whippersnappers from the sidelines."
Even from this brief conversation, you get a sense of each character's age, background, and attitude without the author explicitly telling you. Mastering the art of subtext in dialog will make your stories come alive and allow readers to discover the depth in your characters for themselves.
Driving the Plot Forward With Meaningful Dialogue
To keep your readers engaged, your dialog needs to propel the story forward. Meaningful exchanges between characters should reveal information, create conflict, and raise the stakes.
Share Relevant Details
Use dialogue as an opportunity to share important details about the characters, their relationships, backstories, and the world they inhabit. For example:
“Did you hear they’re raising tuition again next semester?” Jenny asked.
“Ugh, not again,” Mark groaned. “How are we supposed to afford another five percent?”
This exchange informs the reader that Jenny and Mark are college students struggling with the costs. Look for natural ways to slip in context through dialog without sounding forced.
Create Conflict
Interesting stories thrive on tension, disagreement, and clashing perspectives. Have your characters bicker, argue, and challenge each other. For example:
“You never listen to me!” Alice shouted. “You always have to be right.”
“I’m not trying to be right,” Brian retorted. “I’m trying to protect you, but you’re too stubborn to see that.”
The quarrel fuels the underlying conflict in their relationship and keeps readers wondering how they’ll resolve their differences.
Raise the Stakes
Use meaningful dialog at key moments to increase the urgency, suspense or importance of what’s happening in the story. For example:
“The test results came back—it’s not good news,” the doctor said grimly.
Not only does this distressing announcement raise the stakes for the character’s health issue but it also creates a cliffhanger, leaving the reader wondering about the diagnosis and anxiously awaiting more details.
Meaningful dialog is essential for crafting an engaging story. Use it to inform readers, create conflict between characters, raise the stakes, and propel the plot toward a climax. With practice, writing authentic dialog will become second nature.
Creating Tension and Conflict Through Dialogue
To keep readers engaged, effective dialog should create tension and conflict between characters. As in real life, the conversations in your story should have stakes and push characters outside their comfort zone.
Show underlying tensions
Have characters disagree and argue to reveal underlying tensions. For example:
“You never listen to me. It’s always about what you want.”
“That’s not fair and you know it. I’ve sacrificed a lot for this family.”
This type of emotionally-charged exchange shows the couple has deeper issues to work through regarding resentment and lack of appreciation.
Create awkward situations
Put characters in awkward situations through dialog to ramp up the tension. For example:
“How’s the job search going?”
“Um, still looking. The market’s tough right now.”
“Really? I heard your company is hiring. I put in a good word for you with some people I know there.”
“Oh. Thanks, I guess.”
The second character is now in the difficult position of admitting the job search isn’t going well and they don’t actually have any leads. This cringeworthy moment translates the tension to readers.
Issue challenges and ultimatums
Have characters challenge each other by issuing warnings, demands or ultimatums, for example:
“If you walk out that door, we’re through. I mean it this time.”
“Don’t threaten me. You need me more than I need you.”
Throwing down the gauntlet in this way forces characters to back up their words with actions, which heightens the tension and conflict. Readers will keep reading to see who comes out on top!
Using dialog that highlights tension, creates awkwardness, and issues challenges is a great way to craft page-turning scenes that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Mastering the art of writing gripping dialogue is key to writing a story that resonates.
Avoiding Common Dialogue Mistakes
One of the biggest mistakes new writers make is crafting unrealistic or clichéd dialog. Your characters’ conversations should flow naturally and sound believable to readers. Avoid these common dialog doners:
Repeating Characters' Names
In real life, we rarely use someone's name in every sentence when talking to them. Only use a character's name when beginning a new exchange or for emphasis. Repeating names too often makes the dialog sound unnatural.
Overusing Exposition
Don't have characters explain things solely for the reader's benefit. Only include exposition that makes sense for the characters to actually say to each other. Find other creative ways to convey important backstory or worldbuilding details.
Forgetting Emotion
Dialog without emotional cues like facial expressions and body language can seem flat. Use emotive verbs and adverbs to show how the lines are delivered. For example, "she exclaimed" or "he muttered angrily." Also describe characters' physical reactions and behaviors to further bring the scene to life for readers.
Talking in Complete Sentences
Real conversations are often choppy, filled with interruptions, tangents, and imperfect grammar. Vary your sentence structure and length. Use fragments, run-ons, and breaks when appropriate. Not all dialog needs to be in perfectly punctuated full sentences.
Clichéd Phrases
Certain overused phrases like "it's quiet...too quiet" or "we've got company!" indicate lazy or clichéd writing. Come up with original ways for your characters to express themselves that fit with their unique personalities and situation. Avoid reusing trite or familiar sayings.
With practice, writing natural-sounding dialog will become second nature. Pay close attention to how real people speak, and aim to replicate the flow and cadence in your writing. Follow these tips, and your characters' conversations will truly come alive on the page!
Formatting Dialogue Correctly
When writing dialog, formatting it correctly is key to making it clear and compelling for readers. Here are some tips for formatting your dialogue effectively:
Use quotation marks
Place all dialogue between double quotation marks (“”). This indicates the character is speaking. For example:
“Hello,” she said. “How are you today?”
Start a new paragraph for each new speaker
Having each character's dialog on its own line makes it easy to follow who's talking. For example:
“Did you finish your homework?” Mom asked.
“I'm almost done,” I replied. “Just have some math problems left.”
Describe the speech
Use speech tags like "said", "asked", "replied" to indicate how the dialog was delivered. For example:
“I don't want to go to bed yet,” the little girl whined.
Punctuate properly
Place punctuation such as periods, commas, question marks, etc. within the quotation marks. For example:
“Where are you going?” she asked.
I said, “To the store. Do you need anything?”
Use beats
"Beats" are actions or descriptions that replace the "he/she said" tags. They make dialog more engaging and help set the scene. For example:
"I'm tired." John yawned and rubbed his eyes.
"Then go to sleep." Mary folded her arms, annoyance in her tone.
Avoid over-tagging
Don't tag every single line of dialog with "said" or the character's name. Let context and formatting do some of the work for you. For example:
"Did you talk to Mom today?"
"Yeah, she called this morning."
"What did she say?"
"That she'd be home in time for dinner."
Following these guidelines will make your dialogue clear, compelling, and help bring your story to life. Readers will appreciate dialog that flows naturally and is easy to follow.
Using Dialogue Tags Effectively
To write effective dialog, you need to master the use of dialog tags. Dialog tags are the parts of speech that indicate who is speaking, such as “he said” or “she asked”. When used properly, dialog tags can enhance your story without distracting the reader.
Choose tags that match the tone
Pick dialog tags that match the emotional tone of the dialog. For example, use “he whispered” for hushed speech or “she shouted” for loud, angry speech. Avoid reusing the same generic tags like “he said/she said” repeatedly, but don't get too creative either. Stick with simple verbs that imply the manner of speech.
Use action tags
Action tags describe a character's physical actions or expressions while speaking. For example, "“I’m not going,” he shook his head.” or ““What a day!” She ran her hands through her hair and sighed.” Action tags bring dialog to life and help the reader visualize the scene. They also give you an opportunity to reveal character details.
Drop the tag when implied
Once two characters establish a back-and-forth dialog, you can often drop the dialog tags altogether. As long as it's clear who is speaking, the tags become unnecessary. For example:
“Did you finish your homework?” Mom asked.
“Most of it,” I said.
“Most of it? What didn’t you finish?”
“Just some math problems. I’ll do them after dinner.”
“You’d better. I’m checking it tonight.”
After the first two lines, the reader understands that Mom and I are the speakers, so the remaining dialog does not need tags. Dropping implied tags creates a snappier feel and prevents repetitive, unnecessary tags.
Using a mix of well-placed dialog tags, action tags, and implied dialog, you can craft seamless conversations between characters that flow naturally, without distraction. Keep practicing and listening to real-world conversations for inspiration. With time, writing compelling dialog will become second nature.
FAQs About Writing Dialogue
When writing dialogue, questions inevitably come up. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about crafting realistic and compelling dialogue.
Do I use quotation marks or italics?
In fiction writing, use quotation marks (“”) to denote direct speech. Only use italics for thoughts or emphasis. Quotation marks allow the reader to easily distinguish between dialog and narration.
How do I avoid “he said, she said”?
To prevent repetitive “he said/she said” tags, use action tags that describe the speaker's actions or expressions. For example:
“We should get out of here,” he whispered, glancing around nervously.
She slammed her fist on the table. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”
You can also drop the dialog tag altogether if the speaker is clearly identified through context or action. The dialog itself and how you structure the conversation can imply the tone.
How do I make dialogue sound natural?
Pay attention to the cadence and rhythm of actual conversations. Dialog should:
Sound like natural speech, not formal writing. Contractions are okay!
Have an easy back-and-forth flow. Keep responses concise and avoid monologs.
Capture unique speech patterns based on a character's background and personality.
Include interruptions, changes in subject, and imperfect grammar. We don't speak perfectly in real life!
What are the rules for punctuating dialog?
Use a comma between the dialogue tag and the dialog: “Hello,” she said.
If the dialog tag comes before the dialog, end it with a comma: She said, “Hello.”
If the dialogue is interrupted by a dialog tag, use commas to separate it from the tag: “Hello,” she said, “how are you?”
Use a period to end a sentence of dialog: “Hello.”
Use a question mark for a question: “How are you?” she asked.
Use an exclamation point for excitement or emphasis: “Wow!” he exclaimed.
Start a new paragraph each time the speaker changes.
Following these tips will have you crafting dialog like a pro in no time. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Additional Tips For Writing Dialogue
Keep it concise
When writing dialog, less is more. Keep exchanges brief and avoid long speeches. Readers will get bored quickly if characters drone on and on. Focus on using just enough dialog to convey key information or advance the scene.
Use natural language
Write dialog like people really speak. Use casual language, contractions, slang, and imperfect grammar. Drop words like “um”, “like”, and “you know” into conversations to make them sound authentic. Read your dialog aloud to ensure it flows naturally. If it sounds stilted or awkward when spoken, it will come across that way to readers as well.
Share emotions
Dialog should reveal characters’ emotions and attitudes. Have characters express feelings like excitement, frustration, fear or affection through their word choice, tone, and body language. For example, a character who sighs, rolls their eyes or speaks in a sarcastic tone conveys a very different emotion than one who smiles, makes eye contact and speaks enthusiastically.
Keep it relevant
All dialog should serve a purpose, whether to reveal something about a character, advance the plot or set a mood. Avoid “empty” exchanges that fill space but add no value. If a conversation seems pointless or dull, cut or rewrite it.
Use action and description
Don't rely solely on dialog to carry a scene. Include action and descriptions to give readers a more complete picture. For example:
"Where were you?" Anna asked.
Mark sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. "I got stuck at work. I'm really sorry."
The description of Mark's actions and appearance helps the reader understand his emotional state and see the full context of the conversation.
Leave room for interpretation
Don't have characters over-explain or outright state their feelings and motivations. Leave some details to the reader's imagination. For example, instead of:
"I'm angry that you lied to me," Amy said angrily.
Try:
Amy folded her arms and glared at him. "You lied to me."
The emotional context is clear without having to explicitly state Amy's anger. Subtlety and nuance in dialog make for a more engaging read.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the keys to mastering dialogue/dialog in your writing. I hope my extensive research was enough information for you all. Focus on listening to the voices around you, develop unique voices for your characters, keep your exchanges tight and impactful. Remember, dialog should always move the story forward, not just fill space on the page. With practice, writing compelling dialog can become second nature. Now go eavesdrop on conversations, study your favorite books and shows, and get to work crafting those conversations. Your characters and readers will thank you for it. Keep at it and before you know it, you'll be writing dialog with the best of them!
(Keep in mind I used both dialog and dialogue just in case there's a few who get annoyed with that.)
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TheWriteAdviceForWriters 2023
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The 'married' couple that is just friends
"You're coming over? bring me coffee I ran out,"
"ah, my friend looks like he's about to kill you, you best leave,"
"I'm going to have to beat people off with a stick aren't I?"
"Man, thanks, I haven't been able to get to the dishes, you're a life saver,"
"do you have my sad hoody? I need my sad hoody,"
"Can you come over? I need your cooking,"
"We have plans! why do we have plans?"
"you're like my child, call me daddy.... nevermind, that sounds wrong,"
"we're going to your parent's for Mom's birthday tomorrow?"
"I left you lunch,"
"who's apartment are we in?"
"I have a key, it's not breaking an entering,"
"I don't care if it's 2am, I'm lonely, come watch a movie,"
"you remembered my snacks right?"
"Did you just get slapped? oh man, I need to high-five them, where are they?"
"Nooo let me sleep,"
"do you remember where I put my purse?"
"Buy me food, I'm broke,"
"Of course, you're my ATM, who else is going to give me money and not expect it back?"
"I forgot my wallet, hey! I need your bank card,"
"This is why I love you,"
" I can't believe you're making me do yoga,"
"What are we married?"
"yeah sure take it,"
"we're out of brain cells,"
"no milk? aw man she hates black coffee,"
"Is it safe yet? I brought Icecream?"
"I got us tickets to the concert, you owe me,"
"if you're going to cry I'm going to punch someone,"
"Hey, hey, It's okay, I'm here,"
"we won!? man, I'm good at this,"
"he did it,"
"excuse me? I was innocent, you corrupted me,"
"you fixed my sink! thanks!"
"I gave a dude your number, he wouldn't stop bothering me, give em' hell,"
"What's for dinner?"
"you have plans that don't involve me? since when?"
"Happy Birthday hoe,"
"isn't this illegal?"
"who's body are we hiding?"
Join us on Discord! with fellow writers and readers. Ask for writing advice, Join game nights, reading sessions, voice parties, and just hang out!
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rather-ace-writing · 2 months
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PROMPT/IDEA- Hope you like it!
“Oh, you must of missed me.” He smiled dryly. 
“Not in the slightest. You were cruel, and manipulative.” 
“Yet you loved me.” The Prince’s looked them up and down, before holding out a gloved hand. “And I was never cruel to you, I adored you.” He held a hand up to caress their face, but they slapped him away quickly.
“Keep away from me.”
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get-prompted · 4 months
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Prompt;
The princess will only marry her suitor if they succeed to beat her in a sword fight. Every single match loses. Except for the librarian, who didn’t even know how to hold a sword.
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josephinegerardywriter · 10 months
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"I have loved and lost you once. Do not ask me to do so again."
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sas-soulwriter · 5 months
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Dialogue for your next novel (prompt)
"After you vanished, I truly hated you.´´
´´Do you still hate me?"
"A bit, but you can hardly blame me. You just walked away. I was all alone"
"That must have been tough for you, but honestly, I had to. I needed to leave to find peace."
"Why didn't you take me with you back then? What about my peace?"
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blackrosesandwhump · 1 year
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Whump Prompts 90: Forced Transformation Aesthetic
Feel free to reblog and add on :)
A hideous stranger greeting whumpee in the mirror for the first time
Whumpee cowering and hiding in fear, locking themself in their room
Other people expressing concern for them…concern that then changes into fear
The horror of a strange new body that doesn’t seem to belong to whumpee
The devastating realization that whumpee’s new appearance makes others afraid, even terrified
Testing out wings, claws, teeth, all in a daze
ACCIDENTALLY HURTING THEMSELF SOMEHOW because they don’t know how to control their new body
Power, the feeling of power where they never had any before
Nightmares about being a monster…that turn out to be real
Shredded clothes, sheets, curtains
Broken and destroyed things in whumpee’s room
One intact item that holds meaning for whumpee even in their transformed state
The realization that they’re now impervious to things that used to endanger them when they were human
The physical and mental agony of changing back and forth from human to monster form
Horrible nights where whumpee’s alone and monstrous, unable to sleep and unable to have company
ACCIDENTALLY HURTING SOMEONE THEY LOVE
Feelings of guilt, self-loathing, fear, triumph, revenge—all mixed together
Waking up in human form with missing memories, naked and alone
Or, waking up covered in blood and not knowing what they did
Not being able to control if/when/where they transform
Locking themselves away from everyone and the world so nothing bad happens
The horrible knowledge that they’ve been cursed shadowing their entire existence
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taytjiefourie · 1 year
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Dialogue Prompt: Anger
Hey there, my lovely darlings! Guess who's back? That's right, it's yours truly! And I have a little treat for you today. I've put together a list of dialogue prompts that tie in with my 'Show Don't Tell: Anger' post. Pretty cool, right? I've mixed things up a bit this time and added prompts for three different genres. Are you as excited about this as I am? Let me know what you think! I'm thinking of using this format more often in my future posts. Would you like that?
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Anger x Fantasy:
"How dare you speak to me that way! Do you not know who I am?"
"I swear by the gods, I will make you pay for what you've done."
"You have insulted me and my family. Mark my words, the consequences will be dire."
"I am the rightful ruler of this land. Who are you to question my authority?"
"You have defied the will of the gods. They will not be pleased."
"I have had enough of your insolence. It is time I teach you a lesson."
"You have crossed a line that should never have been crossed."
"How could you be so careless? You've endangered us all!"
"I will not stand idly by while you destroy everything I hold dear."
"Your lies have caused great harm. I demand the truth!"
"You betrayed me and our cause. I promise you, there will be consequences."
"I will not rest until justice is served."
"You have made a grave mistake. You will regret it."
"How dare you presume to know what is best for me?"
"You have insulted my honor. I have the right to be angry"
"I have had enough of your arrogance."
"You have violated the sanctity of this place. Leave now."
"I will not tolerate any more of your foolishness."
"You have brought shame upon our clan. You must make amends or be banished forever."
"You have dishonored our family! our People! And you dare laugh!"
"You have failed me for the last time. Get out!"
"You will return what is mine, or suffer the consequences."
"You will pay for your treachery."
"You have underestimated me for the last time. I will prove you wrong."
"You have no right to treat me with such disrespect!"
"You have desecrated this sacred place. Atone for your sins!"
"You have harmed those I hold dear and you expect mercy!?"
"I will not hesitate to use force if necessary."
"You have insulted the honor of our people. You have walked on the blessings of our god. You have no place here."
"You made a mistake, and I promise you will pay dearly for it."
Anger x Dystopian:
"How dare you question my authority? Do you know the punishment for insubordination."
"You betrayed the state. You will face a trial, and the consequences will be severe."
"Your reckless actions have put us all in danger."
"There will be no mercy for criminals like you."
"You wasted valuable resources. Do you have any idea how serious this is?"
"Your disobedience will not be tolerated. We expect you to follow orders, or face the consequences."
"You have shown disrespect to the regime. You will not go unpunished."
"You conspired against the state!"
"You have shown a lack of loyalty, the state does not accept this."
"Your actions have caused chaos and disorder!"
"You've defied the state's authority. They will make an example of you!"
"Their disobedience is a threat to the system. Eliminate them."
"They have shown a disregard for human life. Let them face the full weight of the law."
"They caught you spreading subversive propaganda."
"You will be silenced!"
"You have shown a lack of respect for the system. We will not allow this to continue."
"Your actions have endangered the security of the state. You will be dealt with accordingly."
"Sir, they've attempted to escape."
"You have violated curfew."
"Your disobedience is a threat to our way of life!"
"They have shown a lack of faith in the system. This is treason."
"Your actions have led to the deaths of innocent civilians. You should be held responsible."
"You have shown sympathy for the enemy!"
"Your resistance will not be tolerated!"
"You have shown a lack of respect for our leader. You dare say that this is not blasphemy!"
"Their words are dangerous. Silence them before they can spread it."
"You have attempted to incite a rebellion. Your life is now forfeit to the state."
"They are unacceptable. Reprogram them."
"You will be eliminated."
"They have shown a lack of compliance. Remove them from their homes."
Anger x Romance:
"How could she betray me like this? I trusted her with my heart."
"I can't believe you're leaving me. After everything I gave up for you?"
"You broke my heart when you chose them over me. Forgiveness is not something I can give you."
"I thought you were the one for me, but it turns out you were just playing games."
"You promised me forever!"
"I can't believe I fell in love with someone as heartless as you."
"You shattered my dreams of a happy future. How could you be so cruel?"
"I never thought you would hurt me like this. Everyone else, yes. But you?"
"You used me for your own pleasure and then discarded me like trash."
"I thought our love was strong enough to overcome anything, but I was wrong."
"You cheated on me with my best friend!?"
"I loved you more than anything, but you only cared about yourself."
"You were my everything."
"I gave him everything, and he still chose someone else. I don't understand."
"You made me believe in love, only to break my heart in the end."
"I trusted you with my heart, and you abused that trust."
"You led me on. Why shouldn't I be angry?"
"I loved you with every fiber of my being, but you only saw me as a toy."
"You played with my heart like it was a game. Now it's my turn to play."
"I never thought love could hurt so much, until I met you."
"You used me to fill a void in your life, and then discarded me when you found something new."
"I thought we had something special, I was a fool."
"You promised me the world, but you couldn't give me your heart."
"I loved you for who you were, but you only loved me for what I could give you."
"I'm not sure I'll ever be able to trust again."
"I thought I had found my soulmate, and you found you next victim"
"You're just a stranger in my life."
"IYou ripped my heart out and you want forgiveness?"
"You had other plans."
"All I got was heartbreak and tears."
Can you believe we've made it through a whopping 90 prompts? Wow, time flies when you're having fun! Sadly, this is the end of this post, but don't fret! I'll be back on Monday with the next 'Show Don't Tell' post, so be sure to tune in!
But, if you're eager to get a sneak peek of next week's post, you can always throw a tip on my BuyMeACoffee account and get an early view. Or, better yet, you can join our membership program and receive up to three amazing writing posts a week! Sounds like a deal, right? I can't wait to see you all next time!
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Writing Prompt #2645
He'd promised to take care of me. He said once I'd finished the work, that it would be just the two of us, and we could enjoy our time together.
But instead he abandoned me.
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writing-ideas-inc · 11 months
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Scene Prompt
"What's going on in here?" A stopped in the doorway of B's room and did a double take. The room was dark except for the shimmering blue light emitting from the cauldron that B was standing beside. As A watched, B started chanting something in a soft voice.
"B just got some terrible news," C, who was sitting on the floor munching on a bag of potato chips, explained. A took a hesitant step inside the room.
"What happened?"
"They were rejected from their dream university."
"I mean, that's horrible, but it doesn't really explain," A gestured in B's direction, "this."
D shrugged. "B's just working through it. Coping, you know."
"There's no way this is going to end well."
"Hush, your negativity is going to corrupt the spell."
-Mod Minita
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novlr · 7 months
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How to Write a Pirate Character | Fast, But Long Guide
Arr, mateys! Are you ready to set sail on a new writing adventure? (Sorry if that was cringe lol) Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, creating a convincing pirate character can be a fun and challenging task. Pirates have been a popular trope in literature and media for centuries, but how do you make your pirate character stand out from the rest?
In this post, I'll help you explore tips and tricks for crafting a memorable pirate character in your fantasy novel. From subverting common pirate stereotypes to using historical research to inspire your character's backstory, I'll cover everything you need to know to create an authentic and unique pirate protagonist. So hoist the Jolly Roger and let's get started!
Crafting a Convincing Pirate Character for Your Fantasy Novel
Pirates are a popular fantasy trope, with their swashbuckling adventures and brash personalities. However, creating a convincing pirate character for your fantasy novel requires more than just the usual pirate tropes. To make your pirate character unique and memorable, consider the following tips:
Consider the Role of Your Pirate
Before crafting your pirate character, consider their role in your story. Will they be the protagonist or the antagonist? Will they help or hinder the protagonist's journey? Understanding their role can help you create a convincing and well-rounded character.
Create Flaws and Vulnerabilities
Your pirate character should have flaws and vulnerabilities that make them relatable and human. Avoid creating a perfect or infallible character, as this can make them less interesting and memorable. By giving your pirate character weaknesses and challenges to overcome, you create opportunities for character development and growth.
Do Your Research
Crafting a convincing pirate character requires research. While there are many pirate tropes and stereotypes, it's important to avoid clichés and caricatures. Understanding the historical context of piracy and the lives of real-life pirates can provide inspiration for your character's backstory, motivations, and actions.
Subvert Pirate Stereotypes
Pirates are often portrayed with common tropes such as the eye patch, parrot, and peg leg. While these features can be fun and memorable, consider subverting them to create a more unique character. Think outside the box and create a pirate character that breaks from the norm.
By following these tips and taking the time to create a complex and well-rounded pirate character, you can enhance the overall quality of your fantasy novel.
Understanding Pirate Stereotypes and How to Subvert Them
When writing a pirate character, it can be tempting to rely on common stereotypes such as eye patches, parrots, and peg legs. However, it's important to subvert these tropes to create a unique and memorable character.
Common Pirate Stereotypes
Eye patch
Parrot
Peg leg
Cutlass or sword
Grog (alcohol)
Treasure hunting
While these elements are often associated with pirates, they can also be clichéd and overused. Consider how you can subvert these tropes to create a more interesting character.
Pirates Were Not Lawless
Pirates are often portrayed as completely lawless and dangerous, but this is a stereotype. In reality, pirates had strict hierarchies and rules within their crew. For example, the captain of the crew often had the final say in any decision, but crew members were allowed to vote on certain issues. Understanding these rules and hierarchies can add depth to your pirate character.
Historical Context
When creating a pirate character, it's important to consider the historical context of piracy. Pirates were often the product of their environment, forced into piracy due to a lack of opportunities or as a result of war. Consider how your character's motivations, actions and attitudes might be influenced by this context.
Avoid Caricatures
To create a well-rounded, complex pirate character, it's important to avoid relying on clichéd caricatures. Your character should have strengths and weaknesses, as well as unique motivations and goals. A good pirate character will have flaws and vulnerabilities that make them relatable and human.
Researching Historical Pirates to Inspire Your Character
One of the best ways to create a convincing pirate character for your fantasy novel is to research real-life pirates and draw inspiration from their lives. Here are some tips:
Consider the Time Period and Location
Piracy has existed for centuries, so it's important to choose a time period and location that suits your story. Different pirates operated in different areas, and had varying cultures and methods. For example, Blackbeard, one of the most infamous pirates in history, operated in the Caribbean during the early 18th century, while the Barbary pirates focused on raiding ships in the Mediterranean during the 16th to 19th centuries.
Read Primary Sources
Reading primary sources, such as diaries and letters from pirates themselves, can provide valuable insights into their lives and motivations. Some great sources to check out include:
The journal of William Dampier
The biographies of Blackbeard, Anne Bonny, and Calico Jack Rackham
The trial records of pirates who were sentenced to death, which can offer insight into the legal system of the time
The pirate code, which was a set of rules that pirate crews followed. It can give you an idea of the hierarchies and structures within pirate societies.
Get Creative
Don't be afraid to take creative liberties with historical accuracy. Your pirate character can be inspired by real pirates without being an exact replica. Remember, you're writing a fantasy novel, not a history thesis. Use your research to create a unique and believable character with their own backstory, personality, and motivations.
By researching historical pirates, you can create a detailed and convincing pirate character that adds depth and authenticity to your fantasy novel.
Building a Unique Backstory for Your Pirate Character
One of the key elements of creating a memorable pirate character is crafting a unique backstory that explains why they became a pirate and what motivates them to stay one. Here are some tips for building a compelling backstory for your pirate:
Consider Traumatic Events
Perhaps your pirate character experienced a traumatic event, like the loss of a loved one or a betrayal, that led them to a life of piracy. This could provide depth and complexity to their motivations and actions.
Include Personal Relationships
Your pirate's relationships with other characters, such as a mentor or a former crewmate, can also add to their backstory and provide opportunities for conflict or growth.
Think About Career Choices
Did your pirate character choose piracy as a career, or were they forced into it by circumstance? This can affect their relationships with other pirates and how they view their role within the crew.
Incorporate Personality Traits
The personality traits that make your pirate character unique can also be tied to their backstory. For example, a pirate with a quick wit may have developed this skill as a result of surviving on the high seas.
Overall, a well-crafted backstory can provide insights into your pirate character's motivations, personality, and relationships with other characters. Don't be afraid to take risks and explore new ideas to make your pirate truly unforgettable.
Creating Authentic Pirate Dialogue That Still Resonates with Modern Readers
Pirate dialogue can make or break the believability of your character. The key is to strike a balance between authenticity and accessibility, so modern readers can understand what your pirates are saying without losing the pirate lingo that makes them unique. Here are some tips for crafting authentic pirate dialogue:
1. Use Historical Language, But Don't Go Overboard
Research historical pirate slang and language to add realism to your dialogue. However, don't overdo it. Too many unfamiliar words or phrases can confuse modern readers, leading them to lose interest in your story. Instead, sprinkle in some pirate language and mix it with modern speech patterns.
2. Consider Your Pirate's Background and Education
Not all pirates spoke the same, and their backgrounds and education levels will influence how they speak. An educated pirate may use more complex language, while a less-educated one may rely more on slang and swear words. Factor in things like regionality, ethnicity, and class to help inform your pirate's dialogue pattern.
3. Use Research and Imagination to Create Believable Dialogue
It's important to do your research and use historically accurate pirate language when possible. But when in doubt, let your imagination take over. Remember, you're writing fiction, not a historical textbook. As long as your dialogue sounds believable and fits your character, it's okay to take a few creative liberties.
4. Read and Watch Movies Featuring Pirates
Reading books and watching movies featuring pirates can help you get a feel for their typical speech patterns and common phrases. Pay attention to how the dialogue is written and how it adds to the atmosphere of the story. But again, don't be afraid to put your own spin on things. Make your pirates memorable and unique.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can create authentic pirate dialogue that still resonates with modern readers. Remember, the key is to balance historical accuracy with accessibility, so your pirates sound believable and interesting. Don't be afraid to get creative and let your pirate's personality shine through in their dialogue!
Choosing the Right Archetype for Your Pirate Protagonist
Archetypes are useful tools for developing memorable and relatable characters, including pirate protagonists. Consider which archetype best fits your protagonist's personality, motivations, and actions to ensure a cohesive and compelling story.
The Noble Outlaw
This archetype represents a pirate who, despite their criminal actions, adheres to a moral code. The noble outlaw may have been forced into piracy due to circumstances beyond their control, and they may only attack wealthy or corrupt targets. This archetype can create tension with other pirates in the crew who may not share the same moral values.
The Ruthless Captain
As the name implies, the ruthless captain is a pirate who rules their crew with an iron fist. They may have gained their position through violence or intimidation, and they prioritize their own power and wealth above all else. This archetype can create conflict between the captain and other crew members who may question their decisions or motives.
The Swashbuckling Adventurer
This archetype represents a pirate who loves adventure and thrills above all else. They may have joined piracy out of a desire for excitement and freedom, and they may prioritize having fun over accumulating wealth or power. This archetype can create tension with other pirates in the crew who are more focused on practical goals.
Crafting Memorable Supporting Characters to Enhance Your Pirate's Story
While your pirate character may be the main focus of your story, having well-crafted supporting characters can enhance their journey and provide depth to the overall narrative. Here are some tips for creating memorable supporting characters:
Diversity:
Consider including a diverse cast of characters to add contrast and tension to your pirate's story. Having characters with different backgrounds and experiences can also provide opportunities for your pirate to grow and develop.
Motivation:
Your supporting characters should have clear motivations for their actions, whether it's loyalty to the pirate crew or a personal vendetta. Their motivations can also provide opportunities for conflict and plot development.
Backstory:
Similar to your pirate character, your supporting characters should have their own backstory that explains their actions and motivations. A well-developed backstory can also provide opportunities for character growth and plot development.
Opposition:
Having opposing characters can create conflict and tension in your story, providing opportunities for your pirate to overcome challenges and grow as a character. Consider creating characters that have conflicting beliefs or goals with your pirate.
By utilizing these tips, you can create supporting characters that enhance your pirate's story and provide depth to the overall narrative. Remember to give each character their own unique personality and motivations, creating a diverse cast that enhances your story's themes and motifs.
Weaving Pirate Culture and Ethics into Your Story's Themes and Motifs
As you develop your pirate character and plot, it's important to consider the culture and ethics of piracy and how they can influence your story's themes and motifs.
Pirate Ethics
Pirates followed their own moral code, which often included principles such as equality among crew members, democracy in decision-making, and retribution for mistreatment by the authority figures they opposed.
Consider how your pirate's actions and beliefs align with the culture and ethics of piracy. Do they adhere to the code or reject it? Does their compliance or defiance create conflict or resolution in the story?
Pirate Culture
Pirates had their own unique culture, including customs such as dividing loot, flying a specific flag, and using distinct language and slang.
Using pirate culture as a motif can add richness to your story's atmosphere. For example, a treasure hunt can provide opportunities for incorporating pirate customs and traditions while also advancing the plot. A ship battle can showcase the crew's cohesion and strategy.
Exploring Themes
Pirate culture and ethics can provide opportunities for exploring themes such as justice, freedom, and morality. These themes can be emphasized through your pirate character's actions and decisions.
For example, if your pirate character is motivated by a desire for revenge against a corrupt government, this can provide a compelling exploration of the theme of justice. If your pirate character struggles with the decision to betray their crewmates for personal gain, this can delve into the theme of morality.
By weaving pirate culture and ethics into your story, you can provide depth and meaning to your plot and characters.
Conclusion
Writing a convincing pirate character for your fantasy novel requires a mix of creativity, research, and attention to detail. By understanding and subverting common pirate stereotypes, researching historical pirates, developing a strong backstory, crafting authentic dialogue, choosing the right archetype, and creating memorable supporting characters, you can create a pirate character that is unique, complex, and memorable. Weaving pirate culture and ethics into your story's themes and motifs can provide depth and meaning to your plot and characters, and make your pirate character more relatable to modern readers. So set sail on your writing journey, and let your pirate character lead the way!
Copyright © 2023 by Ren T.
TheWriteAdviceForWriters 2023
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Anger Prompts list
"Are you out of your mind!?"
"did I say I needed your help!?"
"When was I meant to find out? when it was too late!?"
"get out of my face!"
"you're ruining it!"
"I worked my ass off on this and you just had to walk right over my effort!"
"I would push you in front of a train if murder wasn't illegal!"
"How many times do I have to say no!"
"I don't care!"
"Is that it!? you're giving up!"
"I won't let you beat me!"
"I'm better than you could ever dream of being!"
"Your words mean nothing to me! nothing!"
"What is your brain for!"
"go be a fucking ornament,"
"I don't need you dragging me down,"
"you!? what are you doing here!"
"I refuse to work with a useless brat!"
"If you didn't jump in, she would still be alive!"
"you ruin everything!"
"What did you say!?"
"Why are you crying!?"
"Just because I don't deserve it, doesn't mean I'm not going to take it!"
"where did you even get that idea!"
"use your damn ears!"
"what use are you!?"
"don't fuck up this time!"
"give me a god damn break!"
"I work harder than everyone in this entire place!"
"There isn't a way to turn back!"
"you crashed!?"
"I'm perfectly calm!"
"you utter moron!"
"Why won't you just leave me alone!"
"take a dive off a roof! see if I care!"
"Who ate my food!"
"I'll break you myself!"
"there's a grave waiting for you!"
"oh, now you show!"
"Who's stupid idea was this!"
"I can't believe I fell for that!"
"you like toying with me!?"
"I'll show you what the best looks like!"
"I am not cranky!"
"go to hell!"
"like I'd choose to waste my time around you!"
"Break a leg, and I mean literally!"
"There is no way I'm getting on that!"
"Why am I always in the wrong!?"
"Forget it!"
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