How To Write Text Messages In A Book: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’re writing a book, and you want to incorporate text messages. Brilliant! Text messages add a layer of realism, urgency, and intimacy that can really elevate your storytelling. But it’s not as simple as just typing out a conversation. There’s an art to it. This guide will equip you with everything you need to know to seamlessly integrate text messages into your book and make them a powerful tool for your narrative.
The Power of Text Messages in Storytelling
Why even bother with text messages? Well, they offer a unique set of advantages. They can:
- Reveal information subtly: Text messages can provide backstory, character development, and plot points without lengthy exposition.
- Create immediacy: The short, often rushed nature of text messages creates a sense of urgency and realism.
- Show, don’t tell: Instead of describing a character’s feelings, you can show them through their texting habits, tone, and word choices.
- Add authenticity: In today’s world, texting is a ubiquitous form of communication. Including it grounds your story in reality.
Setting the Stage: Choosing the Right Context
Before you start composing text messages, consider where and when they fit into your story. Ask yourself:
- What is the relationship between the texters? Are they friends, enemies, family, lovers? This will dictate the tone and content.
- What is the purpose of the text exchange? Is it to advance the plot, reveal character, create tension, or provide comic relief?
- How important is the text exchange to the overall narrative? Should it be a brief exchange or a longer, more detailed conversation?
Formatting Text Messages for Readability and Impact
The presentation of text messages is crucial for readability and impact. Here’s how to format them effectively:
- Clear Identification: Always identify the sender and receiver. This can be done in a few ways:
- Name and Time Stamp: “Sarah: Hey, are you still coming tonight? 7:15 PM” This is the most common and clear method.
- Character’s Name: “Sarah: Hey, are you still coming tonight?”
- Dialogue Tags: (Sarah texts) “Hey, are you still coming tonight?” This is less ideal but can work in certain contexts.
- Visual Cues: Use visual cues to separate the text messages from the main narrative. Here are some options:
- Indentation: Indent the text messages to set them apart.
- Font Changes: Use a different font for the text messages (e.g., Courier, or a sans-serif font).
- Borders: Consider using a border around the text messages, especially for longer exchanges.
- Line Breaks: Use line breaks within the text messages to reflect the way people actually text. Avoid long, unbroken paragraphs within a single text.
Mastering the Language of Text: Tone, Slang, and Style
The authenticity of your text messages hinges on getting the language right.
- Tone is Key: Consider the emotional tone of the text exchange. Is it urgent, playful, angry, or sarcastic? Let the tone guide your word choices.
- Slang and Abbreviations: Use slang and abbreviations, but sparingly. Overuse can feel forced and dated. Consider your target audience. A little slang can go a long way; too much can become distracting.
- Emojis and GIFs: Emojis and GIFs can add personality and emotion. Use them strategically. Remember, the goal is to enhance, not overwhelm, the reader.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid obvious errors like using “your” instead of “you’re.” Proofread meticulously.
Weaving Text Messages into the Narrative Flow
Integrating text messages seamlessly into your story is an art.
- Placement Matters: Consider the placement of text messages. They can be used to open a chapter, punctuate a scene, or provide a cliffhanger.
- Pacing and Rhythm: Vary the length and frequency of text exchanges to control the pace of your story.
- Build Suspense: Use text messages to create suspense. Leave messages unanswered. Hint at secrets.
- Character Development: Use text messages to reveal character traits. Does a character always text back immediately? Do they use a lot of emojis?
Show, Don’t Tell: Utilizing Text to Reveal
Text messages are a fantastic way to show, not tell.
- Internal Conflicts: Show a character’s internal conflict through their text messages.
- Relationship Dynamics: Demonstrate the dynamics between characters.
- Emotional State: Reveal a character’s emotional state through their word choices, tone, and use of emojis.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Text Message Writing
There are several common mistakes to avoid:
- Overuse: Don’t overuse text messages. They can become repetitive and lose their impact.
- Unrealistic Conversations: Make sure the conversations feel authentic.
- Ignoring the Context: Always consider the context of the text exchange.
- Forgetting the Receiver: Don’t just focus on what the sender is saying; consider how the receiver might respond.
Advanced Techniques: Layering and Subtext
For more advanced writers, consider these techniques:
- Layering: Use multiple text exchanges to reveal different layers of information.
- Subtext: Use subtext within the text messages to create ambiguity and intrigue.
- Delayed Replies: Use delayed replies to build tension or show character flaws.
Editing and Refining Your Text Message Dialogue
Once you’ve written your text messages, it’s time to edit and refine them.
- Read Aloud: Read the text exchanges aloud to check for flow and authenticity.
- Get Feedback: Ask beta readers to review your text messages and provide feedback.
- Revise and Polish: Revise and polish your text messages until they are perfect.
FAQs: Text Message in Books
Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you as you write.
What about autocorrect errors?
Autocorrect errors can add authenticity. However, use them sparingly. Overuse can be distracting.
How do I handle group texts?
Group texts can be tricky. Clearly identify the participants and consider using a different formatting style to distinguish them. For example, you could use a different font or color.
Can I use real-world text message features like read receipts?
Yes, but use them judiciously. Read receipts can add a layer of suspense, but overuse can be clunky.
Is it okay to make up phone numbers?
Yes, but it’s generally best to use a made-up phone number to avoid any potential privacy issues. You can find generators online that provide random phone numbers.
How do I decide how long a text message conversation should be?
The length of the conversation should depend on its purpose in the story. If it’s a crucial plot point, it might be longer. If it’s a quick update, it can be short. Consider the pacing of your story.
Conclusion: Texting Done Right
Incorporating text messages into your book can be a powerful way to enhance your storytelling. By understanding the power of text messages, formatting them effectively, mastering the language of text, and weaving them seamlessly into your narrative, you can create a more authentic and engaging reading experience. Remember to focus on character development, create suspense, and use text messages to show, not tell. With careful planning and execution, text messages can become a valuable asset in your writing arsenal, helping you craft a truly compelling and memorable story.