Definition
Subtext
Subtext is what is going on in the heads of your characters-their inner
thoughts as opposed to their outer words and actions.
(Subtext is much like Inner Monologue as discussed
in
the January 2001 issue of Drama Ministry.) Sometimes subtext is spoken
aloud through a line of dialogue. In other words, the character is being
truthful about her thoughts and feelings. Often, the subtext is unspoken
and can be contradictory to the spoken line, only to be revealed through
body language or tone of voice. If a character doesn't say what she's
thinking, why? Is she lying? Afraid to open up? Avoiding an issue? Trying
to keep things light? Trying to look good? Actors who dissect their characters'
thoughts and motivations in this way will find it
easier for their acting to be more natural.
