How to write a monologue

A monologue is a long speech delivered by a single character in a theatrical or film production. Monologues can either speak to other characters on the stage, or a character speaking to himself or to the audience. The word monologue comes from the Greek roots for alone and to speak, and is the counterpart of the word dialogue, which comes from the Greek word for conversation. Here are some tips on how to write a monologue.

1)     When you write a monologue: go to the classics

Study famous monologues. From the famous inner turmoil of Hamlet to several Hollywood examples, monologues can be used in theater to give depth to a character. Monologues give us an arrow into the characters’ ideas and motivations. They are less of a plot device (though they should always be used to advance the plot) and more of a character study that unfolds aloud.

2)     Build a background

Use stories to build character. Monologues can be a great opportunity to take a break from the main plot of the story and allow a main character to reveal something about his or her past, tell an anecdote, or a bit of “background” about themselves. When done well, and at the right time, an illuminating or surprising tale adds color and texture to the main story, giving us another way to see the plot at hand.

3)     When you write a monologue: don’t be afraid to explore

The monologue can be addressed to a real or imaginary audience. It can also be imposed in a dialogue, leaving the interlocutor mute. The interior monologue is a psycho-narrative in the novel, which presents the thoughts of the characters. The texts are then more introspective and intimate. They can also make us dive into an obsessive mind.

4)     Find the voice

Find the character’s voice. When we finally hear the character speak at length, it shouldn’t be surprising to hear the voice they use and the way they speak. If you explore their voice while writing, don’t explore it in a long, important monologue, but elsewhere in the script.

When you write a monologue, it can be one of the most difficult things for a writer to do. Yet the ability to create a strong character and perform it can win at auditions or leave your audience overwhelmed.