Writers Tricks of the Trade MARCH-APRIL 2015 | Page 27

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ARGUMENTS MAKE YOUR CHARACTERS
SEEM REAL
Real people argue. They don’t placidly agree to everything, smile and go on their
way unless they are a “perfect pleaser,” in which case they do exactly that,
although they might think secret thoughts.

WHY AN ARGUMENT IS A GOOD PLOT DEVICE
Think about this. A carefully designed argument can advance the plot through
the use of dialogue. Two, or sometimes even more, people take opposing views
about something. Depending upon the genre and storyline, it might be a friendly
difference of ideas, an animated exchange, or even something that ends in
violence, foreshadowing an event yet to be revealed. How much more interesting
this is than citing a laundry list or stating the pros and cons by using dull
narrative.

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A PERFECT EXAMPLE
Tommy wants to kidnap their “target” and Sherry doesn’t agree:
Sherry began to shake her head, but he kept on talking.
“Think about it. Plenty of dough to get us to Florida.” As her expression turned
from interest to shock, he acted like he hadn’t noticed.
“Here’s my idea. You could take some lessons at the studio and cozy up to
her.”
Her eyes had widened in fright, as if he had suggested killing someone.
When she finally found her voice, she’d yelled, “Are you crazy, Tommy Boy?
What you’re suggesting is called kidnapping. White slavery! You’re an idiot. Just
count me out.”
Tommy wasn’t concerned at all. He knew how Sherry’s mind worked. Her first
reaction was always like that if she sensed risk Then almost as quickly, she
would look at the whole picture. In this case, he knew the potential of making a
lot of money would rise to the top.

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WHAT DOES THIS EXCHANGE TELL US IN A FEW PARAGRAPHS?
Tommy has hatched a risky kidnapping plot that can make them lots of
money.
He has no compulsions about carrying it out and has actually begun to
plan.
Sherry, while not the pillar of honesty, draws the line at things that might
cause serious consequences.
Tommy knows Sherry very well and is able to predict how she acts.
The reader knows already that Sherry will give in. It’s her nature.
accomplish the deed?
If they go off in a huff taking different directions, will they come back
together?
WRITERS’ TRICKS OF THE TRADE

PAGE
17

MAR-APR 2015

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