Aaron Sorking's Writing Style and Learnings

Welcome back to Weekly Articles. Let's talk about writing this week and when it comes to writing there's one writer who doesn't fail to surprise us and take us over by heart, Aaron Sorkin.

In today's article, we'll not just be talking about Aaron Sorkin's writing style but also some lessons that can help an aspiring screenwriter.

Aaron Sorkin is a legendary figure in the world of screenwriting, known for his distinctive writing style that has graced television and film with iconic works like "The West Wing," "The Social Network," and "A Few Good Men." Sorkin's writing is characterized by sharp dialogue, fast-paced exchanges, and a knack for portraying complex characters. In this article, we will break down Aaron Sorkin's writing style and explore the valuable lessons we can learn from his screenplays.

The Art of Dialogue

One of the hallmarks of Aaron Sorkin's writing is his mastery of dialogue. His characters engage in rapid, witty, and often intelligent conversations that captivate audiences. Sorkin's dialogue feels both authentic and theatrical, striking a balance that keeps viewers engaged.

In Sorkin's scripts, characters seldom engage in small talk. Instead, their conversations are purposeful and filled with subtext. Every line serves a specific function, whether it's advancing the plot, revealing character traits, or delivering a memorable punchline. This precision in dialogue is a key ingredient of Sorkin's success.

Lesson: Aspiring screenwriters can learn from this and strive to craft dialogue that is crisp, purposeful, and reveals character traits and motivations effectively.

Walk and Talk

Sorkin is famous for his "walk and talk" scenes, where characters discuss important matters while moving through a space. These scenes create a dynamic and visually engaging way to deliver exposition and maintain the pace of the narrative.

These sequences are often seen in shows like "The West Wing," where characters stride through the White House while discussing complex political issues. The movement and dialogue work together to create a sense of urgency and draw viewers into the story.

Lesson: To keep your storytelling visually stimulating, consider innovative ways to convey information within your screenplay. Experiment with movement and dialogue as Sorkin does, and your scenes may come alive in unexpected ways.

Complex Characters

Sorkin's characters are multi-dimensional and flawed, making them relatable and memorable. They often possess a blend of intelligence, vulnerability, and ambition, which adds depth to the storytelling. Take Mark Zuckerberg in "The Social Network," for instance. He is brilliant yet socially awkward, ambitious yet plagued by insecurities. Such complexity makes characters feel real and human.

Lesson: To create compelling characters, develop them with depth by giving them conflicting traits, goals, and weaknesses. This complexity will make your characters more engaging and relatable to the audience.

Theme and Message

Sorkin's screenplays frequently explore themes such as power, morality, and the human condition. He uses his characters' interactions to delve into these themes, prompting viewers to reflect on the broader implications of the story.

In "A Few Good Men," for example, the film explores the morality of following orders versus taking a moral stand. Through the courtroom drama, Sorkin raises thought-provoking questions about the responsibility of individuals in the military.

Lesson: Identify the core themes of your screenplay and use your characters and their dialogue to explore these themes effectively. Make your audience think beyond the surface narrative, just as Sorkin does.

Structure and Storytelling

Sorkin's screenplays often employ non-linear storytelling and flashbacks to reveal crucial information. He is a master at building tension and delivering dramatic reveals at precisely the right moments. In "The Social Network," the narrative weaves between the past and present, gradually unraveling the events that led to the creation of Facebook.

Lesson: Experiment with narrative structures and pacing to keep your audience engaged. Use suspense and timing to your advantage when unveiling key plot points, as Sorkin does to great effect.

Research and Accuracy

Sorkin is known for his meticulous research, ensuring that the worlds he portrays on screen are authentic and believable. This commitment to accuracy enhances the credibility of his storytelling.

In "The West Wing," Sorkin's deep research into the workings of the White House lends authenticity to the show's political drama. Viewers feel as though they are getting an insider's look at the corridors of power.

Lesson: Invest time in researching the subject matter of your screenplay, even if it's fictional. Authenticity adds depth to your storytelling and makes your screenplay more compelling.

Aaron Sorkin's writing style is a testament to his talent and dedication to the craft of screenwriting. By studying his screenplays, aspiring writers can glean valuable insights into creating compelling dialogue, crafting complex characters, and delivering meaningful themes. Sorkin's work serves as an enduring source of inspiration for those looking to make their mark in the world of film and television. As you embark on your own writing journey, remember the lessons from Sorkin's screenplays and use them to elevate your storytelling to new heights.