Adding layers of meaning for readers behind the dialogue (between the lines) adds some rich texture, conflict, authenticity, and understanding to story. Subtext is the silent conversation that happens while another topic is being discussed. Subtext can use euphemisms and other diversionary tactics to have a private or intimate conversation…
Tag: fiction writing
6 Questions To Discover The Power Imbalance Affecting Subtext In Fiction
Power or authority applies a filter to subtext, it affects how we perceive or interpret what we believe is actually being said. What Is Subtext? Subtext is the non-verbal communication expressed through what Psychology Today called “a silent orchestra” which is a combination of facial expression, tone of voice, posture,…
Are You Writing Female Characters Who Are Too Stupid To Live?
Writing strong female characters has become this… thing recently among writerly types. Nobody wants to write a tired trope or cliched character, and yet they keep popping up. Fantasy is particularly bad, but historical and horror are only a couple of other genres guilty for it. If your character is…
Where’s The Line In The Sand?
Wondering how to build in effective character conflict? How does one create the kind of inner turmoil that drives a character to outrageous page-turning decisions and mistakes? Try drawing a line in the sand. I love that scene from the Fellowship Of The Ring where Gandalf screams at the Balrog:…
What Does Your Writing Cost You?
The very best writing we’ll ever do is the kind that forces you to rally your courage, expose yourself emotionally, by putting your thoughts and opinions out for critique whether it’s pitching an agent, in a blog post, an article or book. But that’s only part of the cost though,…
How Connotation And Subtext Convey Meaning Between The Lines
Connotation helps add unspoken meaning to readers through subtext. Connotation helps you show your reader backstory and character traits without telling them anything. It’s the writer’s job to be as economical as possible and make words pull double duty (say as many things to a reader as possible) so getting connotation…