Into the Fire

A wonderful tool for fiction if used properly in conversation, slang can define characters and add colorful dialogue. The key, as with any part of constructing stories, is to use it well.

My personal favorite reaction to things I like: Cool! Yes, it's old, but it's tried and true and has survived generations. If your dialogue is too hip for your perceived audience, you might lose your readers for the moment. Make the slang work for you by fitting it to the character and circumstance.

Different slang expressions can be relevant to particular areas of the country – or wherever you've situated your location – but misunderstood in other places. Decide if the meaning of the expression can be discerned regardless of its pertinence to a specific area.

Slang is commonly used in many simple conversations and can express a commonality and casual familiarity among characters. It's a useful writing tool when inserted for the right effect(s).

Father, thank you for all the avenues we pursue in writing, for helping us develop our stories and put to use the multiple ways you've given us to tell them. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.