Em Dash

Em Dash is a collection of short stories that aims to explore the element of dissent as the primary vehicle for character development. The stories presented here vary thematically and structurally in order that the element of dialogue and its function are both emphasized and examined exhaustively in diverging narratives. The variation allows the verbal exchanges to present different power dynamics and relationships between characters—from friends and foes to mentors and pupils—and the effect this has on how they express themselves. Furthermore, I use this variety to utilize the other elements of fiction to effectively build up the tension in a conversation, especially through context, space, and action. The collection navigates conflicts arising in dialogue through which characters’ perspectives and motivations are revealed, but in doing so, these characters are developed by how they respond to their beliefs challenged by verbal opposition from another. As the title suggests, the em dash is used as a recurring motif to punctuate spoken lines that are impeded by another character. This is meant to present interruptions in spoken dialogue as the most natural tendency to express dissent in conversation, characterizing impatience and indifference to an opposing opinion. Through this collection, I have sought to tell the stories of people who see a world that must conform only to their perceptions until their beliefs are dissented by opposition, but in doing so, I present dialogue as their opportunity to grow and to change as characters.