The Power of Subtext in Screenwriting
Let’s get one thing straight: dialogue is not just words. Sure, you could stick to the surface level, make your characters say exactly what they mean, and call it a day. But then you’d be missing out on the richest layer of storytelling—subtext. That’s right, the thing that makes audiences lean in, the thing that turns a good script into a masterpiece, is often what’s not said. This under-the-surface layer of meaning can be a secret weapon in your screenwriting arsenal, adding depth and complexity to your characters and plot. Think of it as the marrow in the bones of your screenplay structure.
If you’re new to the concept, subtext is essentially the unspoken or less obvious meaning or message in literary or dramatic work. For example, if a character says, “Sure, everything’s fine,” but clenches their fists while doing so, we’re getting a juicy bit of subtext that suggests otherwise. Subtext enriches your narrative by allowing dual levels of understanding: one that’s straightforward and another that requires a bit of intellectual digging. This technique is absolutely crucial when it comes to writing a screenplay that aims to capture the complexity of human emotions and situations. It’s a tool you’ll want to add to your collection of screenwriting tips.
So why is subtext so important? Firstly, it’s a fast track to character depth. The best characters in film history are often the ones layered with subtext. Take Michael Corleone from “The Godfather” for instance. On the surface, he’s a reluctant successor to his family’s criminal empire. But dig a little deeper and you’ll find a complex web of duty, ambition, and moral compromise. The subtext within his dialogue and actions makes him an enigmatic and memorable character.
In addition to enhancing character depth, subtext also aids in plot development. When the audience senses a disconnect between what a character says and what they truly feel or intend, it generates tension and intrigue. This is a key ingredient in making your screenplay structure engaging from beginning to end. For example, in “Gone Girl,” when Amy says she’s the “cool girl,” it’s not just a statement—it’s a commentary on societal expectations, setting up a plot full of dark surprises.
Subtext also lends itself to thematic richness. In movies like “Fight Club,” the characters often say one thing while meaning another, weaving a fabric of social and personal commentary that elevates the film from a straightforward narrative to a complex critique of consumer culture.
Now, incorporating subtext into your screenplay isn’t just about making your characters say the opposite of what they mean. That’s a rookie mistake. Real mastery comes when you make the subtext and the text work together in harmony, each enhancing the other. For instance, if a character in a romantic comedy says, “You had me at hello,” it’s not just about that moment or that greeting. The subtext is years of loneliness, the quest for genuine connection, and the instant chemistry that makes all the past heartbreaks worthwhile.
For those just getting started with incorporating subtext, one practical piece of advice is to trust your audience. Modern viewers are incredibly savvy and more than capable of reading between the lines. You don’t have to spell out every emotion or motivation. Let the dialogue do the heavy lifting, but also allow room for interpretation. This is where the magic happens.
But how do you actually go about adding this subtextual layer to your script? Well, one of the foundational writing tips to remember is “show, don’t tell.” Rather than having a character directly state what they feel, use their actions, the setting, or even props to imply it. Maybe a character is nervous about a job interview and they’re obsessively straightening their tie; the action speaks volumes without saying a word.
In terms of screenwriting tips for the actual dialogue, consider using contradiction, implication, or understatement as tools to hint at a deeper meaning. For example, when a character in a thriller says, “I’ve done some things I’m not proud of,” we instantly wonder what they are, which keeps us engaged and invested.
Now that you understand the sheer power and necessity of subtext in screenwriting, you’re already a step ahead in the game. This is what separates the ‘okay’ scripts from the ones that have producers fighting over them. By understanding and mastering subtext, you’re not just writing a screenplay; you’re crafting a work of art. Trust me, subtext is the ingredient that’ll make your script impossible to put down.
Mastering Subtext in ‘The West Wing’
When it comes to the art of subtext, Aaron Sorkin is a modern maestro. Few shows offer a better masterclass in this screenwriting technique than his critically acclaimed political drama, “The West Wing”. Today, we’ll delve into the unique elements of Sorkin’s writing style, pulling out specific scenes as case studies for how he employs subtext, and looking at the screenplay structure techniques used to layer meaning into every line.
Firstly, it’s important to highlight that Sorkin is renowned for his quick, intelligent dialogue, a trait that’s abundant throughout “The West Wing.” You’d be hard-pressed to find a scene where characters simply say what they mean; instead, they dance around topics, veil their intentions, and speak in a political tongue that serves multiple agendas. This isn’t subterfuge for the sake of it. Rather, it adds layers to the characters and the high-stakes world they navigate.
Take the episode “Two Cathedrals”, where President Bartlet grapples with whether to run for reelection after revealing that he has Multiple Sclerosis. There’s a monumental scene in a cathedral where Bartlet ostensibly addresses God. He speaks in Latin, rails against the heavens, and smokes a cigarette, eventually stubbing it out on the cathedral floor. The dialogue is weighted with anger, regret, and defiance, but it’s the subtext that’s truly riveting. It questions the morality of leadership, the conflicts between personal ambition and public duty, and the limits of faith. That’s Sorkin at his best, exploiting the screenplay structure to nestle subtext within subtext.
Now, Sorkin often uses a technique called “walk and talk”, a device where characters converse while walking through hallways, essentially a moving dialogue scene. Superficially, this technique could be dismissed as a clever way to dump exposition while keeping the energy up. But look closer, and you’ll see that the walk itself is often subtextual. The characters are always on the move because the political world they inhabit never stops. The walking signifies the perpetual motion of their lives, the unyielding pressures of their jobs, and the passage of time which waits for no one.
Let’s consider another example: “In Excelsis Deo”, an episode that earned Sorkin an Emmy. In it, Toby becomes obsessed with arranging a military funeral for a homeless Korean War veteran. On the surface, the dialogue talks about the logistics and ethical complications of using his White House influence to organize the funeral. But the subtext is about honoring those who are overlooked by society, even when doing so is complicated and messy. Through his actions, Toby questions the ethics of a system that can simultaneously uplift and forget its heroes. It’s a perfect blend of character revelation and thematic exploration, all accomplished through subtext.
For those aiming to improve their writing skills, particularly when it comes to screenplay structure, there’s a crucial lesson here. Sorkin rarely lets his characters speak in a vacuum; they’re often doing something else—walking, working, arguing. This ‘dual-action’ approach allows the dialogue to operate on two levels, facilitating richer subtext. You’re not just hearing what the characters are saying; you’re absorbing what they’re doing and understanding what they’re feeling.
Now, some might argue that Sorkin’s dialogue is too clever by half, that no one really talks the way his characters do. But that’s missing the point. The hyper-articulate dialogue isn’t a gimmick; it’s a window into a world where the stakes are sky-high, and every word counts.
Practical Applications: Writing Your Own Subtext-Rich Dialogue
If you’ve made it this far, it’s clear that you’re enamored with the concept of subtext as much as I am. But it’s one thing to admire the Sorkin-esque layering of meaning, and quite another to infuse your own dialogue with similar depth. That’s why this final section is a brass-tacks, roll-up-your-sleeves kind of deal. I’m going to equip you with writing tips and prompts aimed squarely at helping you master the art of subtext.
Start with Conflict or Tension
When crafting dialogue, a fundamental starting point is conflict or tension between characters. Even the most casual conversations are rife with subtle power dynamics, hidden agendas, or contrasting goals. Characters don’t have to be at each other’s throats; they could be vying for something as simple as approval, attention, or the last slice of pizza. The point is, once you identify the underlying tension, you can start to construct dialogue that serves dual purposes: conveying information while also revealing the characters’ internal conflicts.
Use Action to Enhance Dialogue
Much like Sorkin’s famous walk-and-talks, the actions your characters engage in while speaking can add layers to their words. Are they avoiding eye contact? Fidgeting? Cooking? Scribbling in a notebook? Consider how these actions can underscore or counterpoint what’s being said. A detective who’s doodling during an interrogation is probably trying to unsettle the suspect, even if the dialogue doesn’t explicitly say so.
Choose Words Wisely
Every word counts. Even the most innocuous lines can convey a sea of subtext if you choose the right words. Think about how a simple greeting can vary: “Hey,” “Hello,” “What’s up?” Each one gives off a different vibe. Similarly, how a character responds to a question or makes a statement can provide insight into their mood, intent, or level of engagement. This doesn’t mean every line needs to be a poetic masterpiece, but a well-placed word can make all the difference. For inspiration, rewatch “The West Wing” or read the screenplays to see how Sorkin makes every line a mini-event.
Writing Prompts for Subtext Practice
Ready to get your hands dirty? Here are some writing prompts to help you practice weaving subtext into dialogue:
- The Apology: Write a scene where one character must apologize to another, but for some reason, they can’t say the words “I’m sorry.” How do they convey regret or contrition through subtext?
- The Confession: Create a dialogue where a character admits to something without actually admitting it. This could be a guilty pleasure, a dark secret, or an unspoken love.
- The Interview: Craft a job interview scene where both the interviewer and the candidate have something to hide. Neither can be forthright, but both have a lot at stake.
- The Family Dinner: Pen a scene where a family is sitting around the dinner table, and everyone has their own agenda. Mom wants to discuss vacation plans, Dad’s concerned about finances, and the kids have their own troubles but don’t want to share.
The Value of Mastering Subtext
To conclude, I can’t emphasize enough the value of mastering subtext in your screenwriting journey. This is not merely a stylistic choice; it’s a vital skill that enriches your screenplay structure, amplifies character depth, and enhances thematic resonance. Whether you’re writing a screenplay or even working on writing a novel, understanding how to infuse your dialogue with meaningful subtext can elevate your storytelling to new heights. It’s the difference between characters who feel like cardboard cutouts and those who feel as complicated, flawed, and wonderfully human as any of us.
Remember, the best dialogue does more than just move the plot forward or provide exposition. It serves as a window into your characters’ souls, revealing their fears, hopes, and complexities without them having to utter a single “on-the-nose” line. That’s the magic of subtext. That’s the essence of great storytelling. And that’s the craft we all strive to master.
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A.I. in Screen Trade 