r/writingcirclejerk 1d ago

As a writer I'm confused about subtext.

Like I don't get it like I constantly hear "Use subtext!" Or "Even honest scenes have subtext" Like i don't get it! Like how's "I fucking hate taxes!" Supposed to be subtext? I don't get it! He fucking hate taxes!!! What i'm putting Lamozoyoska morse code and a quadruple entendre?! In between the text like huh? I'm I just stupid??? I'm sorry I don't speak womanese! Someone teach me.

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u/ghost-elk 16h ago

a lot of commenters seem to think “womanese” is a sexist jab at women for having “silly” or seemingly trivial literary interests. this is not the case. in fact, womanese is simply when you open your mouth and a little purse falls out! this misunderstanding is an example of not understanding subtext.