The Fantasy Writing Show with Jed Herne 10 Dialogue Mistakes Every New Fantasy Writer Makes
Apr 18, 2025
New fantasy writers often stumble over common dialogue mistakes that can hamper their storytelling. Key pitfalls include failing to create distinct character voices and overloading conversations with unnecessary information. The importance of reading dialogue aloud to catch awkward phrasing is emphasized, along with the need for engaged, purposeful, and immersive exchanges that propel the story forward. With practical examples and actionable tips, this discussion aims to transform dialogue into a powerful tool for character development and narrative momentum.
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Use Subtext in Dialogue
- Avoid dialogue without subtext; make readers work to infer characters' true feelings.
- Subtext adds depth and shows rather than tells, enriching the scene's interest.
Avoid Clone Speak
- Avoid clone speak where characters sound identical; use distinct voices for each.
- Use action beats and vocabulary reflecting personalities to differentiate speakers.
Read Dialogue Out Loud
- Always read your dialogue out loud to spot awkward phrasing and unnatural rhythms.
- Reading aloud reveals issues unnoticeable on the page, improving flow and realism.
