What role does diction play in a narrative?

Diction refers to the choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing, and it plays a critical role in shaping the voice and style of a narrative. When writers carefully select their diction, they enrich the dialogue, making it sound more authentic and aligned with the characters' backgrounds, emotions, and situations. By using specific language that reflects how characters speak, including their dialects, social class, and education, the writer enhances the realism of the characters' speech.

In addition to adding authenticity, diction can also reveal important details about a character's personality and intentions. It helps readers to understand not just what a character says, but how they say it, which can substantially influence the perceptions and interpretations of those characters throughout the narrative.

While diction can influence several aspects of a story, such as its setting and mood, these elements are often more directly associated with other literary techniques. Thus, the essence of diction lies in its power to reflect and shape character speech, supporting a deeper engagement with the characters and their experiences.