Defining Characters Through Their Speech

characters writing craft

Creating memorable characters is at the heart of every great story. One of the most effective ways to bring your characters to life is through their speech. But it's not just about what your characters say—it's also about how they say it. Understanding the nuances and depth of character speech can transform your writing and make your characters more compelling and relatable.

In this article, we'll explore:

The unique voice of characters - why speech matters and how to build authentic voices
Speech expressing 10 aspects of characters - with examples from novels, film, and TV
How to define your characters through their speech - 5 actionable tips

Before we start ...
do you want to write fiction faster,
while practicing your craft and your writing process to consistently get better?

Check out this link to the FREE "Write Fiction Faster ... and better" guide and workbook,
which comes with a FREE companion course
with 23 bite-sized video lessons and 4 worksheets.

The Unique Voice of Characters

WHY SPEECH MATTERS

Speech is intrinsic to character development. It reveals personality traits, cultural backgrounds, emotions, and much more. The way a character speaks—whether it's confident, hesitant, formal, or slang-filled—provides readers with invaluable insights into who they are.

BUILDING AUTHENTIC VOICES

Authenticity is key. When your characters speak in a way that feels real and true to their identity, readers are more likely to connect with and care about them. An authentic voice is consistent and reflects the character’s background, personality, and current state of mind.

SPEECH AS A PLOT DRIVER

Dialogue isn't just filler; it can drive the plot forward, reveal crucial information, and create tension. Through well-crafted conversations, you can reveal secrets, resolve conflicts, and set the stage for future developments.

Breathing Life into Characters through Speech

Consider these aspects of your character and how to use their speech to express them:

Story Role - their place in the narrative helps shape their speech
Wounds - past traumas can influence the way they speak and what they say
Fears - they make your character more relatable and human
Goals - what your character wants should be expressed in their speech
Worldview - beliefs and principles should come out in their speech
Wrongviews - their blindspots and misconceptions, even the lies they tell themselves
Culture and Backstory - where they come from and their cultural influences
Personality - introverted/extroverted, optimistic/pessimistic and other traits
Reaction to Situations - reveal their true feelings and conflicts through what they say and how they say it
Relationships with Other Characters - use dialogue do express how the story characters relate to each other

1. STORY ROLE

A character's role in the story shapes their dialogue. Whether they're a hero, a mentor, or an antagonist, their speech will reflect their purpose and mission.

Catherine Tramell in "Basic Instinct" (Film): Catherine Tramell’s speech is a tool of manipulation and intrigue. Her dialogue is often ambiguous and provocative, revealing her as a cunning and enigmatic figure within the story. This serves to keep other characters—and the audience—off balance, showcasing her role as a master manipulator who is potentially dangerous and always intriguing.
Sherlock Holmes in "Sherlock" (TV Series): Sherlock Holmes, as the quintessential detective, exhibits his brilliance and observational skills through quick, insightful dialogue. His speech is often rapid and detailed, emphasizing his analytical mind and obsession with solving cases. This verbal precision establishes his role as a masterful investigator and a force to be reckoned with, both to allies and adversaries alike.
Harry Bosch in Michael Connelly's "Harry Bosch" Series: As a hardboiled detective, Harry Bosch's speech is characterized by its directness and brevity. His pragmatic tone and no-nonsense approach to dialogue reflect his determined pursuit of justice and his deep sense of moral integrity. Through his speech, readers can perceive his relentless mindset and unwavering commitment to solving crimes.

2. WOUNDS

Past traumas and experiences leave a mark on your characters. Their speech should reflect these wounds, influencing their behavior and decisions. This vulnerability adds layers to the character, making them more relatable and human.

Will Hunting in "Good Will Hunting" (Film): Will's tough and dismissive speech masks deep-seated wounds from his troubled upbringing. Often using humor and sarcasm to deflect emotional intimacy, his dialogue reveals his fear of rejection and hesitation to trust others. As the film progresses, his conversations begin to reflect his internal struggle with vulnerability and the slow acceptance of his potential and worth, prompted by his therapist's unwavering patience and understanding.
Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice": Elizabeth's sharp wit and often defensive repartee reveal her lingering wounds from societal and familial expectations. Her pointed remarks and occasional sarcasm hint at her frustration with the constraints placed on women, as well as her own pride and prejudices that obscure her judgements. Through her speech, readers glimpse an underlying vulnerability about love and acceptance, driving her gradual journey toward self-awareness and understanding.
Jane Eyre in Charlotte Brontë's "Jane Eyre": Jane's speech often reveals her internalized wounds from a childhood marked by neglect and hardship. Her words are measured and assertive, reflecting her resilience and determination to maintain autonomy despite her societal position. Through her dialogue, readers perceive the emotional scars of isolation and longing for love and belonging, as well as her fierce resolve to build a life founded on dignity and self-respect.

3. FEARS

Everyone has fears, and so should your characters. Highlighting these fears through their dialogue can make them more relatable and human.

Clarice Starling in "The Silence of the Lambs" (Film): Clarice's speech often reflects her underlying fear of inadequacy and desire to prove herself in a male-dominated environment. When she discusses her past or responds to Hannibal Lecter's probing questions, her language is laced with a mixture of vulnerability and determination. Her fears of being unable to save the innocent, compounded by past childhood traumas, echo through her measured, careful dialogue.
Jack Torrance in Stephen King's "The Shining": Jack Torrance's descent into madness is masterfully articulated through his speech. As his fears of failure, losing his family, and his own sanity consume him, his dialogue becomes increasingly erratic and aggressive. His fearful internal struggles erupt in hostile words directed at his wife and son, revealing the inner turmoil and terror that he cannot escape.
Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" (Film): Norman's speech offers glimpses of his fear of losing control over his dual personalities. He often talks in a stammering and nervous manner, especially when conversations touch on his "mother." His dialogue hints at anxiety and dread over his inner darkness being uncovered, portraying a character haunted by fears both real and psychological, trapped within his own fragmented mind.

4. GOALS

What drives your character? Their speech should reflect their aspirations and the lengths they will go to achieve them. Goals give direction to their actions and add stakes to the story.

Katniss Everdeen in Suzanne Collins’ "The Hunger Games": Katniss’s speech is driven by her unwavering goal to protect her family, which expands into a broader mission of revolution against oppression. Her directness and fierce resolve come through in her dialogue, particularly during moments of defiance. When she speaks, her words are laden with both vulnerability and tenacity, reflecting her instinctual leadership and determination to bring about change, even when faced with insurmountable odds.
Ender Wiggin in Orson Scott Card's "Ender's Game": Ender Wiggin's speech reflects his overarching goal of winning the war against an alien race, the Formics. Even as a young boy, his dialogue encompasses a mix of strategic brilliance and reluctant leadership. His direct yet contemplative conversations often reveal his inner conflict between achieving ultimate victory and retaining his humanity, illustrating his burdened desire to end conflict for the greater good.
Ahsoka Tano in "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" (TV Series): Ahsoka’s dialogue often highlights her pursuit of peace and justice in a war-torn galaxy. Her speech carries a blend of youthful determination and seasoned wisdom, reflecting her journey from a young Padawan to an independent warrior. Through her interactions, especially when challenging authority or comforting the oppressed, she demonstrates her unwavering goal to protect those who cannot protect themselves, showcasing her growth and commitment to her ideals.

5. WORLDVIEW

How does your character see the world? Their beliefs and principles should shine through their speech. A character’s worldview shapes their decisions, interactions, and overall narrative arc.

Gandalf in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings": Gandalf's worldview is deeply rooted in wisdom, hope, and the belief in the potential for good within all creatures. His speech often reflects his patience and foresight, particularly when he counsels others with gentle guidance or firm resolve. Through his dialogue, he conveys a profound understanding of the balance between light and dark, revealing his steadfast belief in perseverance against great odds and the importance of unity among diverse peoples.
Daenerys Targaryen in George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" (and HBO's "Game of Thrones" series): Daenerys's speech embodies her dual worldview of rising from oppression and claiming her birthright. Her assertive and often fiery rhetoric captures her conviction in her destiny as a ruler and liberator. Through her declarations and promises, she communicates a deep commitment to breaking chains and establishing justice, highlighting her fervent belief in reshaping the world according to her vision of righteousness and strength.
Lyra Belacqua in Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials": Lyra's dialogue throughout the series reveals her evolving perspective on truth, authority, and freedom. Her speech is characterized by inquisitiveness and bravery, often challenging those in power and refusing to accept the status quo. As she matures, her conversations reveal a growing understanding of the impact of her choices and the complexities of her world, showcasing her transition from a curious child to a determined young adult with a clear sense of right and wrong.

6. WRONGVIEWS (Misconceptions and Blindspots)

Everyone has blind spots and misconceptions. Use your character's speech to reveal the lies they tell themselves. These wrongviews can create internal conflict and drive the plot forward.

Nick Dunne in "Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn: Nick Dunne's speech often reveals his deep-seated misconception that he can maintain control over his image and marriage by hiding inconvenient truths. His lies and justifications to others, and himself, signify a blindspot in understanding his wife's true nature and the manipulation unfolding around him. Throughout the story, his conversations, riddled with half-truths and denial, expose a man blind to his role in the collapse of his world, believing he can navigate the storm with charm and veiled indifference.
Edward Cullen in Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" series: Edward Cullen frequently underestimates Bella’s strength and agency, evident in his speech and internal monologue. Despite his love for her, his protective and patronizing dialogues often reflect his misconception that he knows what's best for her and that keeping her at arm’s length will ensure her safety. This wrongview fails to account for Bella's own capability and determination, leading to conflicts and a deeper exploration of their relationship dynamics.
Kate Beckett in "Castle" (TV Series): Throughout the series, Detective Kate Beckett wrestles with her belief that solitude and emotional detachment ensure her protection. Her dialogue often reveals a reluctance to openly express vulnerabilities and a façade of independence, stemming from past traumas. Beckett’s exchanges, particularly with Richard Castle, highlight her blindspot, as she misconceives that embracing support and emotional connections would only lead to more pain, creating tension between her need for closure and the potential for genuine partnership.

7. CULTURE AND BACKSTORY

Where do they come from? What cultural influences shape them? This background can add richness to their speech.

Sam Spade in Dashiell Hammett's "The Maltese Falcon": Sam Spade's speech typifies the gritty realism of a private eye in the noir tradition. His dialogue is punctuated by directness and a keen intuition, molded by a life entrenched in deception and moral ambiguity. Spade’s clipped, pragmatic communication style reflects both his San Francisco roots and the hard-bitten, survival-focused mindset ingrained in him from years navigating the treacherous world of crime and intrigue.
Philip Marlowe in Raymond Chandler's "The Big Sleep": Philip Marlowe's speech is laced with the distinctive sardonic wit and tough-guy bravado that's characteristic of hard-boiled detectives. Growing up in a gritty, urban landscape shaped Marlowe's worldview, reflected in his terse, rhythmic dialogue filled with sharp retorts and wry observations. His speech reveals a deeply cynical yet fundamentally moral character shaped by the cutthroat world of 1940s Los Angeles.
Walter White in "Breaking Bad" (TV Series): Originally a mild-mannered chemistry teacher, Walter White's speech evolves dramatically as he descends into the world of drug manufacturing. His dialogue shifts from polite and reserved to commanding and often threatening, mirroring his transformation into the ruthless drug kingpin, Heisenberg. White's New Mexican roots and academic background initially influence his scientific language, but as his empire grows, his speech reflects the brutal, unforgiving world he inhabits, blending intimidation with calculated precision.

8. PERSONALITY

Are they introverted or extroverted? Optimistic or pessimistic? Their dialogue should reflect these traits.

Sherlock Holmes in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "Sherlock Holmes" series: Sherlock Holmes's speech is as meticulous and precise as his deductive abilities. His dialogue reflects an introverted intellect with a keen sense for detail and observation. Often using brisk, logical language peppered with occasional sardonic humor, Holmes's speech emphasizes his overwhelming confidence in his skills and his often indifferent attitude towards social niceties, showcasing an unwavering commitment to rationality.
Elizabeth Bennet in Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice": Elizabeth Bennet's speech exhibits a blend of wit, intelligence, and a healthy dose of skepticism. Her interactions are laced with humor and a sharp tongue, reflecting her extroverted and spirited nature. Elizabeth's dialogue often challenges societal norms and expectations, illustrating her independent mindset and refusal to conform to traditional molds, underscoring her optimistic belief in personal agency and integrity.
Dewey Finn in "School of Rock" (Film): Dewey Finn's energetic and boisterous speech mirrors his extroverted and rebellious personality. His dialogue is characterized by impassioned and often humorous exchanges that reveal his deep love for music and disdain for authority. Dewey's speech reflects an inherent optimism and charisma, traits that inspire those around him to embrace creativity and individuality, transforming a group of reserved students into confident rock musicians.

9. REACTION TO SITUATIONS

How does your character speech show their reaction to events in the story?

Michael Corleone in "The Godfather" (Film): Michael Corleone’s transformation is expertly portrayed through his speech, which evolves from reserved and detached to authoritative and ruthless. His dialogue becomes increasingly calculated and commanding as he reluctantly embraces his role in the family business. In crucial moments of conflict or decision-making, Michael's speech reveals his strategic mind and the cold determination that defines his leadership, indicating a shift from the reluctant outsider to the powerful head of the family.
Holden Caulfield in J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye": Holden Caulfield’s speech reflects his deep-seated cynicism and disillusionment with the world around him. His sarcastic and often caustic dialogues reveal his inner turmoil and teenage angst, especially in situations where he feels overwhelmed or misunderstood. In moments of vulnerability, Holden's speech layers irony with sincerity, exposing his fear of growing up and his desperate desire to protect innocence.
Katniss Everdeen in Suzanne Collins' "The Hunger Games": Throughout the series, Katniss's speech showcases her growth from a survival-focused teenager to a resolute leader. Faced with extreme danger and moral dilemmas, her dialogue transitions from terse and defensive to inspiring and assertive. In critical situations, Katniss's speech reflects her internal struggle and growth, as she mobilizes others with passionate appeals and persuasive arguments, illustrating her evolution into a symbol of rebellion and hope.

10. RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHER CHARACTERS

Use dialogue to explore how they feel about other characters. This can add layers to relationships and drive the plot forward.

Atticus Finch in Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird": Atticus Finch’s speech reflects a deeply respectful and nurturing relationship with his children, Scout and Jem. His calm, measured dialogue conveys wisdom and encourages open-mindedness, often teaching them crucial life lessons through gentle guidance and analogies. In his interactions with adversaries, Atticus remains composed and eloquent, demonstrating his commitment to justice and empathy, which earns him respect from both friends and foes.
Rick Blaine in "Casablanca" (Film): Rick Blaine's speech illustrates his complex relationship with Ilsa Lund. His initial cool and detached dialogue with Ilsa hides past emotions and unresolved tension, revealing a vulnerable side beneath his stoic exterior. As their encounters progress, Rick's speech shifts between sarcasm and genuine affection, highlighting the depth of his feelings and the internal struggle between his personal desires and his sense of duty.
Tony Stark in Marvel's "Iron Man" (Film Series): Tony Stark's speech exemplifies his multifaceted relationships with other characters, particularly with Pepper Potts and Steve Rogers. His witty, often flirtatious banter with Pepper conveys both affection and humor, deepening their romantic connection. In contrast, Tony’s exchanges with Captain America often reveal tension, marked by sharp, competitive dialogue that showcases their differing ideologies and mutual respect, adding layers to their dynamic throughout the Avengers saga.

5 Tips & Tricks for Defining Characters through Their Speech

TIP 1: LISTEN TO REAL CONVERSATIONS

Spend time listening to how people talk. Notice the differences in speech patterns, vocabulary, and tone. This will help you create more realistic and diverse characters.

TIP 2: USE DIALOGUE TO SHOW, NOT TELL

Instead of stating facts about a character, use dialogue to reveal them. For instance, instead of saying a character is nervous, show it through their hesitant speech and frequent pauses.

TIP 3: VARY SPEECH PATTERNS

Not all characters should sound the same. Give each character a unique way of speaking that reflects their personality, background, and current state of mind.

TIP 4: BALANCE DIALOGUE WITH INNER THOUGHTS

Balance what characters say out loud with their inner thoughts. This can create a rich, layered narrative where readers understand the full depth of a character’s experiences and feelings.

TIP 5: EDIT FOR CLARITY AND IMPACT

After writing, go back and edit your dialogue. Ensure it sounds natural and serves a purpose. Cut out unnecessary words and focus on making each line impactful.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of defining characters through their speech and inner thoughts can elevate your fiction writing, making your characters more nuanced and compelling. By understanding their role, wounds, fears, goals, worldview, wrong views, culture, personality, inner reactions, and relationships, you can create multi-dimensional characters that captivate your readers.

Ready to refine your characters? Start exploring the way they speak and what they say and watch them come to life on the page! Happy writing!

Resources

MY FAVORITE ALL-PURPOSE RESOURCE

The Writer's Treasure Chest - everything in one place, curated, organized, this is a great reference for all things writing craft, with tons of prompts, plot/character generators and other tools to inspire you to write a great story with complex, believable and memorably characters.

As you write your stories, here are some articles that will be helpful as you work on all the aspects of the writing craft and your writing process:

FREE COURSE, GUIDE AND WORKBOOK

Do you want to write fiction faster, while practicing your craft and your writing process to consistently get better? Check out this link to the "Write Fiction Faster ... and better" guide and workbook, which comes with a companion course with 23 bite-sized video lessons and 4 worksheets.

Frequently Asked Questions About a Character's Inner Thoughts in Fiction

1) Why are inner thoughts important in character development?

Inner thoughts provide a deeper understanding of a character’s motivations and desires, revealing layers of their personality that may not be evident through their actions alone. This insight into their psyche adds depth and realism, allowing the reader to connect on a more intimate level.

2) How can inner thoughts enhance the narrative?

By immersing the reader in the character’s mind, inner thoughts can enrich the narrative with additional context, emotional depth, and tension. They guide readers through complex plot points and character arcs, offering clues to future actions and thematic revelations.

3) Can inner thoughts reveal a character’s hidden desires?

Yes, inner thoughts often uncover a character's secret ambitions and fears that drive their decisions. Even if a character outwardly presents one emotion or intention, their internal monologue can reveal contradictions and underlying motivations unknown to other characters.

4) What role do cultural and societal norms play in shaping a character's inner thoughts?

Cultural and societal norms can significantly influence a character’s internal reflections, shaping their worldview and conflicts. This impact can manifest in their self-perception, how they interact with others, and how they reconcile their personal desires with societal expectations.

5) How do inner thoughts differ between introverted and extroverted characters?

Introverted characters may exhibit more detailed and contemplative inner dialogues as they process their experiences internally. Conversely, extroverted characters might show quick, reactive thoughts that align with external interactions, providing an engaging balance in narrative pacing.

6) What techniques can authors use to portray a character’s inner thoughts effectively?

Effective portrayal can be achieved through stream-of-consciousness, introspective narration, and inner monologues. Each technique has its nuances, allowing authors to convey emotions authentically, whether through fragmented yet vivid imagery or seamless interweaving into the narrative.

7) How can conflicting inner thoughts drive a story forward?

Conflicting thoughts illustrate internal struggles, pushing characters into situations that require decision-making or reflection. These struggles often lead to pivotal moments that propel the story, deepening the plot through tension and character growth.

8) In what ways can a character’s inner thoughts influence their relationships?

Inner thoughts illuminate a character’s true feelings toward others, revealing complexities in their relationships. Unspoken thoughts can unveil affection, resentment, or misunderstandings, shaping interactions and driving relational arcs that impact the story's dynamics.

9) Do inner thoughts need to align with a character’s actions?

Not necessarily. Discrepancies between thoughts and actions add layers of intrigue and realism, depicting a multifaceted character who might be hiding true intentions or struggling with personal dilemmas, enhancing narrative suspense.

10) How can a character’s inner thoughts contribute to world-building?

Through inner thoughts, characters interpret and react to their environment, offering unique perspectives on the world around them. This personal lens can enrich settings with cultural or historical context, bringing vibrancy and authenticity to the fictional universe.

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