In this episode, Jeff sits down with author Dillon Mesquitta to talk about Dillon’s work in progress. They discuss the structure of Dillon’s dialogue and look at the emotional flow of Dillon’s characters.
To listen on Spotify, click here.
To listen on iTunes, click here.
To listen on Google Podcasts, click here.
To listen on Amazon Music, click here.
To watch Jeff and Dillon talk, check out the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/N0j9jasbw3g
Gosh, listening to you, Dillon and Jeff on this topic was such great timing! As I listened, I re-assessed the short story I’m editing, making notes on how to adjust. The entire lecture (and I do consider this a lecture) was phenomenal. I learned so much! Dillon, thank you so much for sharing your piece with us!
My challenge with segments is deciding when there is a change in topic. So often, I seem to think a topic continues when others might not. I find that a topic change is not as evident as, say, an emotional change.
Jeff, it was interesting to learn that deciding how much prose in relation to dialogue one writes is part of one’s author’s voice. Fascinating. Discussing how the mystery for the reader is about answering the question, “Does the character get what they want?” made me revisit how I coined the initial question for the reader in the short story I’m editing and re-assess whether the story answers that question. Again, another aspect of the podcast that I found very helpful.
I also appreciated how you helped us see that one, two, or even three sentences are enough to reflect on dialogue rather than paragraphs. I tend to forget that just a few reflective sentences of prose might be all that’s needed to enhance a reader’s enjoyment.
Additionally, the way you demonstrated extending—not adding—content through the placement of beats was especially helpful. I’m going to practice this.
Jeff, what I’ve mentioned are only a few of the very helpful pointers you offered throughout your instruction. Thank you.
Dillon, again, it was very nice having the opportunity to learn through your sharing of your chapter.
My very best to you!