Listen to what you have written. A dud rhythm in a passage…
![“Listen to what you have written. A dud rhythm in a passage of dialogue may show that you don't yet understand the characters well enough to write in their voices." [ Ten rules for writing fiction ( The Guardian , 20 February 2010)]” quote by Helen Dunmore](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/82b/helen-dunmore-12115_characters_listen-to-what-you-have-written-a-dud-rh_777882.jpg)
““Listen to what you have written. A dud rhythm in a passage of dialogue may show that you don't yet understand the characters well enough to write in their voices." [ Ten rules for writing fiction ( The Guardian , 20 February 2010)]””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A dialogue that feels off rhythmically signals a lack of deep character understanding, urging writers to listen to their characters' authentic voices.
In simple terms: Bad rhythm shows weak character insight.
Key Takeaway
Deepen character empathy.
Themes
writing
craft
character development
Mood
analytical
creative
Type
instructional
inspirational
When to use this quote
- novel writing
- screenwriting
- character workshops
Key Concepts
narrative voice
literary technique
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you hear your characters better?
- What techniques reveal authentic dialogue?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on plot can ignore voice.