Hi all. How much dialogue is too much? Or is there no such thing as too much? The story I am currently writing is going to involve a lot of dialogue between two friends, but I don't want to go 'overboard' with the amount of talking. I won't write paragraphs of dialogue but there will be a substantial amount. Thanks
If you randomly choose a few novels by other people and look at how much dialogue they use, you'll find it varies from one writer to another. I don't think there is a right or wrong amount of dialogue, it just depends on your story and how much you feel is right. So long as you feel there is a balance between the dialogue and the narrative, it's probably fine. If not, work on it.
Thanks Adrian I'll jot the title down and look out for the novel it sounds interesting. I think my problem is I love writing dialogue but I'll have to reign myself in a little. Maybe I would be better placed writing scripts. Thanks again.
Elsie its hard to get the balance right between 'Show' and 'Tell'. Dialogue is an action - 'Show'.
Narration can be 'Show' and 'Tell'. But the best example I have seen of 'Tell' is Jack London's short story - To Build A Fire. A powerful, skilfully written and vividly descriptive tale about a man's fight for survival in the Yukon in winter. There is not one word of dialogue. Worth a read to learn how, London brings the Yukon to life.
I hope that helps.
Good luck.