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INTROSPECTION: The Thinking Mode of Fiction-Writing.

Introspection is the fiction-writing mode used to convey a character's thoughts. According to Renni Browne and Dave King, in Self-Editing for Fiction Writers, "One of the great gifts of literature is that it allows for the expression of unexpressed thoughts . . . ." As a means of developing character, plot, and theme, introspection is potentially one of the most powerful of fiction-writing modes.

But of all the fiction-writing modes, introspection also appears to be one of the least understood. Even a casual review of fiction-writing books and articles reveals a confusing mix of terminology and issues regarding introspection, if the subject is addressed at all.

Sometimes a character's thinking is referred to as internal dialogue, interior monologue, or even self-talk. Such terms are inappropriate since thinking and speaking are distinctly different acts. Furthermore, the writing conventions for dialogue and thinking are quite different.

Some writing coaches lump thinking, emotions, and sensation into one category. Certainly, each is linked to the mind of the character, but thinking, emotions, and sensation are also quite different, in real life and in fiction. Given their importance and the differences in how they are conveyed, each warrants its own analysis and treatment.

Sometimes introspection is included in broader categories, such as narration, description, or summary. Of course, introspection could be considered a subset of these writing modes when they are defined in their broadest terms. But lumping introspection into such wide topics does little to clarify its use; in fact, it adds to the confusion.

The dictionary definitions of introspection refer to an examination of one's own thoughts, a self-study. The author of a story, on the other hand, looks within his fictional character to examine and then convey that person's thoughts.

Other arguments can be made as to what introspection should include and which label should be applied to it, but writers profess to value specific words. For writing and instructional purposes, the most appropriate term for the fiction-writing mode used to convey a character's thoughts is introspection.

As a fiction-writing mode, introspection is a powerful tool for adding depth and texture to a story. Nancy Kress, in Writer's Digest (August 2003), states "There are times when telling us a character's thoughts can greatly enhance a story. It can deepen characterization, increase

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