What is Subtext?

You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means." -Inigo Montoya, The Princess Bride.

Subtext in writing refers to the underlying or implied meaning that exists beneath the surface of the text. It conveys ideas, emotions, or messages indirectly. Subtext adds depth and complexity to a story, allowing readers to infer deeper meanings and engage in critical thinking.

Rather than explicitly stating something, subtext relies on the reader's interpretation and understanding. It can involve unspoken thoughts, hidden motivations, unsaid desires, or concealed conflicts between characters. By using subtext, writers can create tension, build suspense, convey nuance, and explore complex themes.

Effective use of subtext allows readers to actively engage with your text, filling in the gaps and making personal connections. Interpreting subtext requires careful reading and analysis, as it often operates on multiple levels. Readers may extract different meanings from the same subtext, adding richness and diversity to the reading experience.

The following examples demonstrate how subtext can enhance storytelling by adding depth, complexity, and hidden layers of meaning that readers can unravel and interpret.

Dialogue: Characters my engage in conversations where their true feelings, intentions, or conflicts are not explicitly stated. Subtext conveys through subtle hints, double entendres, or conflicting statements. It adds layers of meaning to the dialogue, creating tension and intrigue.

Character A: "I guess we'll see each other around."

Character B: "Yeah, I'm sure our paths will cross again."

Subtext: Character A and B are parting ways, but their subtext implies that they have unresolved feelings for each other and hope to meet again.

Descriptions and Actions: Writers use subtext to describe characters’ actions, gestures, or body language; revealing their inner thoughts and emotions. For example, a character may appear calm on the surface but fidget nervously that shows hidden anxiety.

The protagonist clenched her fists. Her knuckles turned white while maintaining a calm and composed expression.

Subtext: The protagonist is trying to hide their anger or frustration, but their physical reaction reveals their true emotions.

Symbolism: Symbolic language and imagery can convey subtextual meaning. Objects, settings, or events can represent abstract concepts or emotions. This allows readers to infer deeper significance. For instance, a dying flower might symbolize a fading relationship or lost hope.

A character carries a worn-out teddy bear throughout the story. This can represent their longing for childhood innocence and security.

Subtext: The teddy bear symbolizes the character's emotional vulnerability; revealing a desire for comfort and safety.

Metaphors and Similes: Writers can employ metaphors or similes to indirectly convey subtext. Writers can evoke specific emotions or ideas without actually stating them; we can draw comparisons between two unrelated things.

"Her laughter was a melody that danced through the room, bringing warmth to even the coldest hearts."

Subtext: The metaphorical description of laughter implies that the character's joy and positive energy have a profound impact on others.

Irony and Subversion: Subtext is also used to subvert expectations or create irony. Subtext adds complexity and engages readers in uncovering hidden truths or alternative interpretations when it contradicts the surface meaning.

A detective in a mystery novel, for example, may initially appear clumsy and scatterbrained. But, they still consistently solve complex cases.

Subtext: The subtextual irony suggests that the detective's apparent incompetence is a deliberate fa?ade. Their abilities are underestimated but always catch criminals off guard.

Cultural and Historical Context: Subtext embedded within a story can reflect on social, cultural, or historical contexts. It allows writers to explore complex issues indirectly, encouraging readers to reflect on deeper meanings and implications.

A story set during a repressive regime depicts a group of friends gathering in secret; ostensibly to play harmless games, but actually discussing plans for resistance.

Subtext: This example reflects the characters' desire for freedom through their involvement in a covert resistance movement. It highlights the tension between the oppressive regime and those seeking change.

The effective use of subtext requires skill from the writer’s perspective. You need to think as much as you want your readers to think. Subtext allows writers to engage readers on multiple levels, fostering active participation and deeper exploration of the text.