How to Write a Text Message in a Book: A Guide for Authors
Writing a text message within a book requires careful consideration of formatting and context to ensure readability and immersion for your readers. This guide will explore various methods and best practices to seamlessly integrate text messages into your narrative.
Why Include Text Messages in Your Book?
Text messages offer a unique way to showcase character interaction, reveal plot points, or build suspense. They can inject a contemporary feel into your story, especially if you're writing a contemporary or young adult novel. However, overuse can disrupt the flow of your writing. Use them strategically and sparingly to maximize their impact.
Formatting Text Messages: The Key to Readability
There's no single universally accepted style, but consistency is crucial. Here are some popular approaches:
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Indented Paragraphs: This is arguably the simplest method. Indent the entire text message as a separate paragraph, perhaps using a slightly smaller font size.
Sarah: Hey, are you still coming to the party tonight? Liam: Yeah, should be there around 9. See you! -
Dialogue Style: Use standard dialogue formatting, but clearly indicate the sender's name.
Sarah: Hey, are you still coming to the party tonight? Liam: Yeah, should be there around 9. See you! -
Boxed Text: Employ a visual element to set the message apart from the main narrative. This works well in ebooks, but ensure it translates well to print.
+-----------------+ | Sarah: Hey, are | | you still coming | | to the party | | tonight? | +-----------------+ +-----------------+ | Liam: Yeah, | | should be there | | around 9. See | | you! | +-----------------+ -
Using Italics or Bolding: Use italics or bolding to indicate the start of a new message and the sender. This is less visually distinct than other methods but maintains a cleaner look.
Sarah: Hey, are you still coming to the party tonight?
Liam: Yeah, should be there around 9. See you!
How to Write Realistic Text Messages
Remember, text messages aren't formal essays. They use abbreviations, slang, emojis, and often contain grammatical errors. To make them authentic, consider:
- Abbreviations and Slang: Use abbreviations like "lol," "brb," "omg," appropriately for your characters' age and personality.
- Emojis: Emojis can convey emotion effectively but use them sparingly and consistently with the character's personality. Overuse can become distracting.
- Grammatical Errors and Typos: Including minor errors can make the messages feel more realistic, but avoid excessive errors that compromise readability.
- Character Voice: Your text messages should reflect the unique voice and personality of each character.
Should I Use Texting to Convey Important Plot Points?
While texting can be an effective way to reveal information, it’s crucial to avoid relying on it solely for crucial plot developments. The reader should not need to rely on deciphering a text to understand the story’s trajectory.
Integrating Text Messages Seamlessly Into the Narrative
Don't simply drop text messages into the story without context. Use narrative descriptions to set the scene, explain why the characters are texting, and clarify the situation for the reader.
This is essential to avoid confusing the reader and maintaining a smooth reading experience.
By carefully considering formatting, realism, and integration, you can use text messages effectively to enhance your storytelling and create a more engaging reading experience for your audience. Remember to choose a method and stick to it for consistency.
