: Re: Laughing in 1st person narratives I've looked at other posts here, but none really get to the bottom of it, and none are specifically like my question. I'm writing the same story from two

@Alves689

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Perhaps you are approaching story-telling from a narrow, direct approach. The third-person account of events already tells the reader Charlie is always laughing. It may not be necessary to repeat that information in the first person account.

You're also limiting your scope by insisting the tag does the work when there are characters who are there to help tell your story. Allow another character to make the observation.

"That's ridiculous," said Charlie.
"What's so funny?" asked Greta.
"Nothing."
"Then why are you laughing? Is everything a joke to you? You're always laughing at me."
Charlie turned away. "I'm sorry."
Greta placed a hand on Charlie's shoulder and turned him to face her. "Ha! Caught you. You're still laughing."

There's no need to follow any particular convention. Mix it up to avoid repetition. Note that Greta's laugh is in dialogue.

Also consider that if the first-person is aware of their laughing they may reference it. This was important. I should take a moment. Get my mind right. Try to get through this with a straight face.

"Ha!" in dialogue is not amateurish but is often literal. (Not all people have the same laugh).

In this example Greta literally says, "Ha! Caught you!"

It is often said sarcastically. - "Ha-ha. You're killing me."

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