Writing Dialogue

Writing effective dialogue is a tricky business, but it is done well, there is a big payoff. Dialogue can create a strong connection between character and audience. It can also quicken the pace of a story: plot clips along and denser passages of description are leavened. In this in-depth, eight-week-long workshop, students will learn how to craft well-timed and convincing dialogue. The cross-genre workshop will cover the basics of writing character monologues, penning dialogue for the stage and screen, and composing conversations for works of fiction. Students will be encouraged to workshop their writing on an ongoing basis, and some supplemental readings and exercises will be completed throughout the course. Additionally, students will learn essential editing skills and techniques, and will come away from the course knowing how to cut out unnecessary chatter!