Dialogue is an Intensive workshop format, meaning instruction is condensed into a brief time span: a single day in New York City, two consecutive days on Zoom, or three weeks for the online version. This course welcomes writers of all experience levels. A comprehensive syllabus is available for review below.
Consider the memorable line from the film adaptation of Gone With the Wind, when Rhett tells Scarlett, "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn" (a line that differs from the novel version). This is an outstanding example of dialogue, and you should absolutely care deeply about the dialogue in your own writing. Dialogue forms the backbone of every narrative. Poorly written dialogue undermines a story like a breach in a ship's hull, whereas compelling dialogue allows a narrative to flow with grace and momentum.
Writing authentic dialogue is challenging work. Throughout this course, you'll develop the ability to craft dialogue that sounds genuine and natural while being meticulously constructed so that each line reinforces characterization and carries significant meaning.
Whether your work includes fiction, nonfiction, or screenplay formats, we'll teach you to craft dialogue that delivers maximum impact.
This intensive course provides comprehensive instruction on crafting compelling dialogue across multiple genres and mediums. Program components:
- Intensive lectures on dialogue theory and application
- Focused writing exercises and assignments
Online Course Format
- Week 1: The Art and Construction of Dialogue. Dialogue function and purpose; creating a sense of authenticity; crafting the illusion of natural speech; managing stage directions; specific technical considerations for prose versus screenplay formats
- Week 2: Character Voice and Motivation. Expressing character through dialogue; how character and circumstance shape speech patterns; desire and conflict as dialogue drivers; tactical communication approaches
- Week 3: Subtext and Advanced Techniques. The concept and application of subtext; handling exposition through dialogue; employing stylized dialogue and distinctive language patterns; managing dialect and vernacular; delivering extended speeches
Important Note: Course content may vary by instructor and term.
About This Online Program
- Online classes bring together writers from around the world to study with Gotham faculty, representing New York City's premier writing instruction
- Online classes operate asynchronously, allowing participation at any time, while maintaining weekly course progression with specific weekly requirements
- You can participate from any location worldwide with internet access; while most students are U.S.-based, we welcome participants from practically every nation
- Professional technical support is provided
- Beyond the scheduling and location flexibility, you'll maintain a complete record of all course materials for download and future reference (materials include text and images, not video)
