[A]lways get to the dialogue as soon as possible. I always…
![“[A]lways get to the dialogue as soon as possible. I always feel the thing to go for is speed. Nothing puts the reader off more than a big slab of prose at the start." (Interview, The Paris Review , Issue 64, Winter 1975)” quote by P.G. Wodehouse](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/989/p-g-wodehouse-723_communication_a-lways-get-to-the-dialogue-as-soon-as-p_13316.png)
““[A]lways get to the dialogue as soon as possible. I always feel the thing to go for is speed. Nothing puts the reader off more than a big slab of prose at the start." (Interview, The Paris Review , Issue 64, Winter 1975)””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advocates starting a narrative with brisk, engaging dialogue to hook readers, avoiding dense exposition that can deter interest.
In simple terms: Prioritize early dialogue for reader engagement.
Key Takeaway
Dialogue accelerates immersion.
Themes
Narrative pacing
Reader engagement
Writing technique
Dialogue importance
Storytelling efficiency
Mood
enthusiastic
pragmatic
confident
Type
advice
observation
writing tip
When to use this quote
- Opening a novel
- Launching a short story
- Blog post introductions
- Marketing copy
- Lecture opening
Key Concepts
Hook
Exposition
Narrative flow
Reader psychology
Practical Applications
- Crafting compelling opening scenes
- Improving reader retention
Questions to Reflect On
- How does early dialogue affect reader expectations?
- What risks arise from excessive exposition at a story's start?