Conflict makes stories, always has, always will, and that means writing arguments. The key thing about writing arguments is that they’re not at all like real life confrontations so here’s some thoughts.
*They shouldn’t have repetitive elements - unlike real arguments which go in circles for ages and achieve little
* They shouldn’t be boring. Written arguments are there to keep the plot moving, maybe revealing something about a relationship between two people or giving the reader information
* There should be some sort of outcome The reader has to feel it was worth reading the argument. The writer Elizabeth Spann Craig says on this subject: “Arguments are a great way to provide conflict and tension to a manuscript. I just make sure mine aren’t as unfocused and pointless in print as the verbal variety I’ve engaged in lately.“
Finally, remember how rules of conversation work:
* A lot of the time, we do not speak in correct sentences/we often use short sharp phrases.
* Keep your dialogue crisp - we can tell a lot about a person in a short snap of conversation.
* We interrupt a lot.
* We assume a lot. Not ‘Your brother has been murdered.’
‘What, my brother Brian?’
‘Yes, that’s him. Your only brother. The younger one.’ Keep it realistic.
* Dialogue must take the story on. Make sure each word does a job.
Plenty of time to enter this month’s Global Short Story Competition at www.inscribemedia.co.uk
John Dean
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