Writing a Monologue That Actually Feels Real

Because Monologues Are More Than Just Talking

Monologues are a classic part of drama and screen acting—but writing one that feels real is harder than it looks.

Too often, monologues turn into big speeches with no emotion or purpose.

But when done well, a monologue can be powerful, personal, and unforgettable.

What Makes a Good Monologue?

A strong monologue:

• Reveals something the character hasn’t said before

• Shows emotion without being dramatic for no reason

• Has a clear beginning, middle, and end

• Feels like a moment—not just a speech

Monologues are not just about what is said.

They’re about why it’s said now.

Where Do Monologues Belong?

In screenwriting, monologues are rare—but important.

They usually come:

• At a turning point

• When a character finally tells the truth

• When something hidden is revealed

A good monologue changes the character—or the audience’s understanding of them.

Keep It Natural

Avoid long, dramatic sentences that feel like a poem.

Instead, write like the character actually talks—messy, emotional, maybe even unsure.

For example:

“I always thought if I just… kept going, everything would fix itself. But it didn’t. And now I don’t even know what I’m trying to fix.”

That’s real. It sounds like someone thinking out loud.

Make It Personal

The best monologues feel like they could only be said by that character in that moment.

Use:

• Personal memories

• Regret or fear

• Hope or dreams

• Something they’ve never admitted before

Don’t make it perfect. Make it honest.

Leave Space to Breathe

You don’t need to fill every second with words.

Let the actor pause. Let them feel.

In screen acting, silence is just as powerful as speaking.

Try This Exercise:

Write a monologue from the point of view of a character who has just realised they were wrong about something big.

Let it come out slowly—like it’s hard to admit.

Then edit it down to 8–10 lines.