Again, word selection is important. The wife is a burden or obstacle. Hopefully, readers want to know which she is and why. There are a limited number of plot structures upon which to hang a story. Readers and audiences are comfortable with a defined subset of plots.
Effective dialogue provides a tool for writers wanting to create interesting stories.
Each line of dialogue should add to the story, usually by adding to a character. Dialogue advancing the plot but not contributing to the story results from including dialogue for the sake of dialogue or overzealous editing. Inexperienced writers should avoid using dialogue merely because they have been told dialogue is essential. Indirect Dramatic Effect Remember that all fiction, and some non-fiction, requires drama to retain readers. Do not confuse dramatic effect with melodrama.