Mamet's theories on Dialogue

David Mamet emphasizes that effective dialogue should be sharp, natural, and purposeful. He believes actors should deliver lines in a way that sounds authentic, avoiding unnecessary flourishes or exposition. Mamet advocates for dialogue that reveals character and advances the story through subtext—what's implied beneath the words—rather than explicit explanation. This approach creates a sense of realism and tension, making conversations feel more genuine and engaging. In essence, Mamet’s theory encourages writers to focus on truthful, economical speech that drives the narrative and deepens character understanding through precise, layered communication.