George Saunders has said, “Bad dialogue is when A asks a question and B answers it.” Good dialogue is like two people “firing missiles past each other.” From said-bookisms to “As you know, Bob”s, the dangers of dialogue are many—but the opportunities are infinite. In this 80-minute class we’ll discuss the craft of writing dialogue, from inspiration to revision. We’ll generate zingy conversation that develops character relationships, advances plot, and communicates subtext. We’ll edit existing conversations with an eye toward balancing economy with verisimilitude. Students are encouraged (though not required) to submit a short (no more than three page) dialogue in advance. Instructions for submitting working will be emailed in the weeks leading up to the conference.