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How to write an argument scene

Dialogue

Dialogue makes a big impact when writing an argument scene. You should make sure that your characters are using words or phrases that fit with their personality. However, if a character who never uses foul language suddenly uses a particular word, this could increase the tension if you make sure the other character responds. This could be a moment of shock, or the foul word may cause the other character to become angrier. When you finish writing a scene, read it out loud to hear how it sounds. You may find that some of the lines do not sound like they belong. Listen to your writer's instinct and edit these areas until they sound natural.

Actions

You may choose to also have a character make specific movements during the argument. One of your characters may have a habit of pacing, so you can let her pace. If she is upset enough, she may poke the other character in the chest or make some other action that would indicate the level of her frustration. Try not to exaggerate movements or keep a character performing an action such as pacing for long periods of time. This can dull the argument and make the character less believable.

Raise the Stakes

One of the most important elements to increase tension in an argument is to raise the stakes. If your characters are arguing about when to have a child, for example, consider what is at stake if they wait or if they have one now. Perhaps she wants to wait to keep from losing her chance at a promotion. Instead of this, increase the stakes. Now she is worried she will lose her job, and then she will be unable to help support their family. Take whatever is at the heart of your characters' argument and make the potential outcome more of a hardship. This translates to the reader, particularly when he is invested in your characters and their story.

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