Key learning points

1. Dostoevsky uses facial expressions, body language, structure and punctuation to create effective dialogue.
2. To emulate Dostoevsky, we might begin by asking what emotion our characters feel.
3. Then we might consider how we can show those emotions through body language, structure and punctuation.
4. When writing dialogue, often less is more when it comes to the actual exchange of words between characters.

Keywords

• Emulate - match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation

• Dialogue - a conversation between two or more people as a feature of a book, play, or film

• Monosyllabic - using brief or few words to signify reluctance to engage in conversation

• Realistic - a literary style which focuses on the accurate representation of life and its events

• Reciprocate - respond to (a gesture or action) by making a corresponding one

Common misconception