Here's a breakdown:
What it is:
* Prose: It's written in regular language, not poetry or verse.
* Dramatic: It uses elements commonly found in drama like:
* Dialogue: The characters talk to each other, creating a sense of immediacy.
* Conflict: Characters face challenges, internal or external, that drive the story forward.
* Tension: The writing builds suspense and anticipation.
* Character development: Characters evolve and change throughout the story.
* Theme: The story explores a deeper meaning or message.
Examples:
* Novels: Some novels, like "The Great Gatsby" or "To Kill a Mockingbird", use dramatic prose to create compelling narratives.
* Short stories: Short stories often rely on dramatic elements to pack a powerful punch within a limited space.
* Screenplays: Screenplays, written in prose format, are inherently dramatic by their nature.
* Memoir: Memoirs can be written in a dramatic prose style, using vivid language and emotional depth to share personal experiences.
Key characteristics:
* Vivid language: The writer uses imagery and sensory details to bring the story to life.
* Emotional impact: The writing evokes strong emotions in the reader, often through the characters' experiences.
* Strong narrative voice: The writer has a distinct style and personality that comes through in the writing.
* Focus on action: The story is driven by events and the characters' choices.
In short, dramatic prose takes the techniques of dramatic writing and applies them to prose fiction. It aims to immerse the reader in the story and make them feel like they're experiencing it firsthand.