Interogative question versus statement?

Question

How do I determine a statement versus a question in dialogue? I wrote this sentence:"Brad, you know the rules for leaving your cabin at night.” “How could I forget.” The charming camp owner told campers that the quickest way to be sent home was so leave the cabin at night. I meant to write it as more of a statement and not use a question mark, but I'm questioning whether it should have a question mark.

Answer 1

Good question! When you mean a question to be more of a statement, as you describe it, you are asking a "rhetorical question." In other words, the speaker doesn't wish an answer, as he/she is actually making a statement.

Rhetorical questions DO use question marks. Ordinarily, the rhetorical nature of the question will be self-evident. But if you feel it's insufficiently clear, then you must provide further explanation.

Best wishes!

Answer 2

In creative writing, it's all right to make stylistic choices. Since we can't hear the tone of your characters while reading, it's your job as a writer to convey vocal tone, so your choice is fine.

Another option is to use an ellipsis (...):

"How could I forget..."