Benefits of New Lines:
* Clarity: It makes the dialogue easier to read and understand who is speaking.
* Visual Flow: It breaks up the text, making it more visually appealing.
* Emphasis: It can be used to emphasize a particular speaker's words.
* Pace and Rhythm: It can control the pace and rhythm of the dialogue.
When New Lines Aren't Necessary:
* Short Exchanges: For very brief back-and-forth exchanges, one line can be used.
* Dramatic Effect: Sometimes, omitting new lines can create a sense of urgency, tension, or rapid-fire dialogue.
Example:
With new lines:
> "Hello," said John.
> "Hi," replied Mary.
Without new lines:
> "Hello," said John. "Hi," replied Mary.
Ultimately, the choice is yours! Use your best judgment to determine what works best for your story and your intended effect.