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- Jun 2, 2019
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I’m not the only one to do this, but wanted thoughts on a certain practice handling dialogue using verbs other than “said”:
“Where were you!” demanded Catherine
“Out with friends,” offered George
“ ‘friends’?” pressed Catherine
“ well...” evaded George
I use this technique sparingly; mostly I go with “said” but wondering what you all think about either.
On one hand, if the reader is paying attention, they know that Catherine is demanding satisfaction, and that George is defensive. Perhaps he’s a weazel.
On the other hand, using the appropriate verb can add...value to the dialogue, confirming that Catherine is PO’d, that George is sheepish?
Does using verbs other than “said” merely add tedium? Do readers need it / want it?
“Where were you!” demanded Catherine
“Out with friends,” offered George
“ ‘friends’?” pressed Catherine
“ well...” evaded George
I use this technique sparingly; mostly I go with “said” but wondering what you all think about either.
On one hand, if the reader is paying attention, they know that Catherine is demanding satisfaction, and that George is defensive. Perhaps he’s a weazel.
On the other hand, using the appropriate verb can add...value to the dialogue, confirming that Catherine is PO’d, that George is sheepish?
Does using verbs other than “said” merely add tedium? Do readers need it / want it?
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