Unveiling Subtext: The Power of Indirect Communication in Story

by Zena Dell Lowe @ZenaDellLowe

Everybody talks about the importance of subtext—those subtle layers of communication beneath the surface of the narrative—but understanding it intellectually and executing it effectively are two different beasts. Today I want to dive into the practical intricacies of how you can create subtext in your story, but first, we must have a better grasp of what subtext is. 

Defining Subtext

Subtext is “sub,” meaning it’s beneath the text. It’s the silent communication that thrums underneath the spoken words. It’s not overt. It's covert communication, the unspoken truths, the hidden messages that are implied but not readily apparent. It’s also something we’re very familiar with in real life. 

Subtext is a strictly human phenomenon that occurs by being in relationship with other humans. It manifests itself in the boss's subtle snub at the meeting, or the stuff the boyfriend didn’t say when you told him you loved him. It’s the anger that came out sideways after your mom made that seemingly “innocent” comment about your cooking. It’s covert communication because it’s subtle and indirect, which gives us room to backpedal and deny. These behaviors, while socially acceptable, are rooted in our innate fears—fear of rejection, fear of change, fear of facing uncomfortable truths. 

Fear as the Fuel for Subtext

Subtext is the language that humans speak when we are afraid of something being exposed. It is indirect communication aimed at avoiding direct confrontation. Subtle jabs or snide remarks, dropped hints or clues, exhibiting contradictory human behavior (like smiling to cover up rage), or refusing to communicate altogether (by ignoring texts or ducking phone calls) are all behaviors designed to keep the truth hidden and minimize our own exposure to reality. 

Fear, as the primal motivator behind subtext, drives us to cloak our vulnerabilities, to evade direct confrontation, and to shield ourselves from the repercussions of honesty. It's the fear of being seen, of being rejected, or of having to confront painful realities that propels us into the realm of subtextual communication. It’s a way to protect ourselves when we’re too cowardly to tell the truth. We communicate in underhanded ways because we're afraid of the other person's reaction or of the consequences that must follow once that truth is laid bare. Exposed truth demands a response. We can no longer pretend all is well. What happens if you confront your spouse for cheating and they admit it? You would have to do something about it. 

We're too afraid to face the pain of the consequences that must follow when a truth is laid bare. So, what do we do instead? We adopt manipulative behaviors and sideways communication techniques that allow us to state the truth indirectly without requiring any direct change on our part. So long as it’s not stated overtly, it gives us the illusion of safety.

Direct Communication Vs. Indirect Communication. 

It’s all about direct knowledge versus indirect knowledge because direct knowledge changes everything. Direct knowledge demands a response. We must react. We must make different decisions once the truth is out in the open. But if we keep a lid on it, if we keep it hidden and veiled, now we can stay in our casually convenient relationships without truly causing change. All we must do to live in this fantasy is learn to speak and behave in subtextual ways. 

Navigating Subtext in Storytelling

So, how do we translate these nuances of human behavior into our storytelling craft? The key lies in identifying your characters' deepest fears and weaving them into the fabric of your narrative. Subtext is energized by secrets – secret fears in particular. What are your characters hiding? What truths do they wish to conceal, yet long to be acknowledged indirectly? All you must do is figure out who or what your character is afraid of, and then cultivate scenes where they are trying to keep a lid on that thing. By cultivating scenes where these fears simmer beneath the surface, where characters grapple with keeping their truths veiled but inevitably reveal themselves through subtle gestures and evasive dialogue, you breathe life into the subtext of your story and draw readers into the narrative.

Embracing Directness

However, true mastery of subtext doesn't entail perpetuating evasion indefinitely. Rather, it's about understanding that direct knowledge catalyzes change. When truths are laid bare, characters are compelled to react, to make choices that propel the narrative forward. Direct communication disrupts the status quo, forcing characters to confront their fears head-on.

Emboldening Your Craft

In essence, subtext is the language of fear, the clandestine dialogue that underscores human interaction. By embracing the nuances of indirect communication, by peeling back the layers of your characters' fears, you unlock the true potential of your storytelling prowess.

As you embark on your journey to craft narratives brimming with depth and resonance, remember that subtext is more than just a literary device—it's the heartbeat of human emotion, the silent symphony of our deepest fears and desires. So, dare to delve into the shadows, to unearth the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface. For in mastering the art of subtext, you illuminate the very essence of storytelling itself.

Need More Help?

If you're eager to hone your skills further, check out my beta course for storytellers, Hollywood Story Structure Made Easy. In the world of storytelling, understanding the subtleties of subtext is not just an asset—it's a prerequisite for greatness. On sale now for a limited time only, this course will take your craft to new heights. Click on the link provided to learn more. I look forward to seeing you there! https://www.thestorytellersmission.com/HSS-course-details

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Zena has worked professionally in the entertainment industry for over 20 years as a writer, producer, director, actress, and story consultant. Zena also teaches advanced classes on writing all over the country. As a writer, Zena has won numerous awards for her work. She also has several feature film projects in development through her independent production company, Mission Ranch Films. In addition to her work as a filmmaker, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe, a podcast designed to serve the whole artist, not just focus on craft. In 2021, Zena launched The Storyteller’s Mission Online Platform, where she offers advanced classes and other key services to writers. Zena loves story and loves to support storytellers. Her passion is to equip artists of all levels to achieve excellence at their craft, so that they will truly have everything they need to change the world for the better through story.

To find out more about Zena or her current courses and projects, check out her websites at WWW.MISSIONRANCHFILMS.COM and WWW.THESTORYTELLERSMISSION.COM