When it comes to writing, one common question that often arises is whether thoughts should be placed in quotes or not. This topic can be a source of confusion for many writers, especially those who are new to the craft. In this article, we will explore the question of whether thoughts should go in quotes and provide some insights to help you make an informed decision.
Thoughts are an essential part of storytelling and can help convey the inner world of a character. They provide readers with a glimpse into a character’s emotions, desires, and motivations. However, thoughts are not the same as dialogue, and this is where the confusion lies. Dialogue is typically enclosed in quotation marks to indicate that it is spoken aloud by a character. But what about thoughts?
Some writers argue that thoughts should also be placed in quotes to differentiate them from the narrative and make them stand out. This can help readers distinguish between what a character says and what they are thinking. On the other hand, some writers believe that using quotes for thoughts can be distracting and unnecessary. They argue that thoughts can be indicated through other means, such as italics or a change in narrative voice.
Read these “Do Thoughts Go in Quotes”
1. “I can’t believe this is happening to me.”
2. “What should I do next?”
3. “I wish I could turn back time.”
4. “This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for.”
5. “Why did I ever trust him?”
6. “I hope everything works out in the end.”
7. “I can’t stop thinking about what she said.”
8. “What if I fail?”
9. “I need to make a decision soon.”
10. “I should have listened to my instincts.”
11. “I wonder if he feels the same way.”
12. “I can’t let fear hold me back.”
13. “What would my parents think of me now?”
14. “I deserve to be happy.”
15. “I can’t wait to see her again.”
16. “I need to find a way out of this mess.”
17. “Why did I say that?”
18. “I’m tired of feeling this way.”
19. “I wish I had more time.”
20. “I am capable of achieving my goals.”
As you can see from the above examples, thoughts can be expressed in different ways. It is up to you as the writer to decide how to best convey the thoughts of your characters. Whether you choose to use quotes, italics, or a change in narrative voice, the most important thing is to make sure that your readers can easily differentiate between thoughts and dialogue.
In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether thoughts should go in quotes. It ultimately depends on your writing style and the preferences of your readers. Experiment with different techniques and see what works best for your story. The key is to ensure clarity and to create a seamless reading experience for your audience.
