How can I use dialogue to show my characters' emotions?

How can I use dialogue to show my characters' emotions?

You can use dialogue to convey emotions by incorporating tone, word choice, and subtext. For example, a character might say, 'I’m fine,' but their tone and body language could suggest otherwise.

Can you give me an example of that?

Sure! Imagine a character who just received bad news. They might say, 'That’s great,' but if they say it in a flat tone and avoid eye contact, it reveals their true feelings.

What about using silence in dialogue?

Silence can be powerful! A pause before a response can indicate hesitation or fear. For instance, if a character is asked a difficult question, a long pause can show their internal struggle.

How do I balance dialogue and action?

Balancing dialogue and action is key. You can intersperse dialogue with actions that reflect emotions, like fidgeting or crossing arms, to enhance the emotional impact.