§ PODCAST / PEOPLE
Tom Vaughn
Guest"Subtext is a result. It’s still just a result."
— Tom Vaughn | DZ-120: Subtext is Overrated!
2025
DZ-120: Subtext is Overrated!
How do character goals, tactics, and fears create subtext automatically?
Listen if you're struggling to write subtext without it feeling forced!
▶ More Info
Or, how focusing on good drama will result in good subtext. We often hear how subtext is important for good screenwriting. We’re here to tell you it isn’t. Good subtext is a result of good drama, and your focus should be on creating that good drama. But how… →
· · ·
AI✦Tom's core framework treats tactics as the on-page, visible choices characters make to pursue their goals, and subtext emerges from the gap between tactic and true objective.✦
"It’s just tactics and fear. It is how are you trying to get what you want and what are you willing to reveal to the people in the room."
— Tom Vaughn | DZ-120: Subtext is Overrated!