Did you know that said tags flow better using the pronoun first then the said-tag word?
Ex:
“Goodbye,” Bobby said.
(Pronoun) (said-tag word)
When you reverse them, it may make sense with proper names, “Goodbye,” said Bobby. But it sounds awkward with other pronouns. “Goodbye,” said he.
Always try to put the said-tag word second. This is something I search out and fix during my rewrite stage.
Sean says
It seems that “said he” constructs might work well in a period piece where an older English (if not Olde Englische itself 😉 ) was the language of the day. Perhaps a fantasy or historical work?
novelteen says
Good point, Sean. It might work in a fantasy novel. 🙂