1. louis1

    louis1 Member

    Joined:
    Jan 3, 2012
    Messages:
    236
    Likes Received:
    7

    What's a good description/dialogue ratio?

    Discussion in 'Dialogue Development' started by louis1, May 25, 2012.

    50/50
    40/60
    10/90 ??

    what's your opinion of a good description/dialogue percentage?
     
  2. Cogito

    Cogito Former Mod, Retired Supporter Contributor

    Joined:
    May 19, 2007
    Messages:
    36,161
    Likes Received:
    2,827
    Location:
    Massachusetts, USA
    There's no correct answer to this question. However, I have rarely seen a piece of fiction with more than about one in five ratio of dialogue to narrative that was worth reading.

    Dialogue is difficult to write well. But good dialogue also takes some effort to read well, because it exists on more than one level. On the other hand, weak dialogue is just tedious to plow through. Either way, dialogue is harder on the reader than narrative.

    Scripts are the exception, but scripts are not intended to be read so much as performed. The context surrounding the dialogue in a script is primarily filled in by the director.
     
  3. louis1

    louis1 Member

    Joined:
    Jan 3, 2012
    Messages:
    236
    Likes Received:
    7
    Thanks, it's funny the thing i read on the web are completely the opposite, but they don't support their arguments.
     
  4. Show

    Show Contributor Contributor

    Joined:
    Jul 25, 2008
    Messages:
    1,493
    Likes Received:
    35
    Writing well is hard no matter what it is. There are no right answers that apply generally. Every story will demand for something different.
     

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice