The use of literary conventions is an essential part of the storytelling process and can help to create suspense, advance plot points, and give readers a fuller understanding of the story. Dialogue, imagery, and characterization are three of the most common literary conventions used in storytelling.

Dialogue is a powerful tool for creating suspense and advancing the plot. It can be used to create tension between characters, reveal important information, and move the story forward. Dialogue can also be used to create a sense of mystery and intrigue, as well as to provide insight into a character’s motivations and feelings.

Imagery is a powerful way to evoke emotion and create a vivid picture in the reader’s mind. It can be used to set the tone of a story, to create a mood, and to bring the story to life. Imagery can also be used to create suspense, as it can hint at something that is unseen or unknown.

Characterization is another important literary convention that can be used to create suspense and advance the plot. It can help to reveal important information about characters and their motivations, as well as to create a deeper understanding of the story. Characterization can also be used to create tension between characters, as well as to add depth to the story.

The use of literary conventions can be used in a variety of genres, from fantasy to nonfiction. How a storyteller chooses to use these conventions can either enhance or detract from their storytelling. For example, if a storyteller chooses to focus too heavily on dialogue, they may lose sight of other important aspects of the story, such as characterization and imagery. On the other hand, if a storyteller chooses to use a variety of literary conventions, they can create a more engaging and immersive experience for their readers.


In conclusion, the use of literary conventions, such as dialogue, imagery, and characterization, can have a powerful impact on the storytelling process. These conventions can be used to create suspense, advance plot points, and give readers a fuller understanding of the story. Different literary conventions can be used in a variety of genres, and a storyteller’s choice of conventions can either enhance or detract from their storytelling.