Point of view

Definition

Point of view refers to the perspective from which a story is told, influencing how readers interpret events and characters. It shapes the narrative's voice, affects the reliability of the information presented, and can create emotional distance or intimacy with the characters. Different types of point of view, such as first-person or third-person, can significantly impact storytelling techniques and reader engagement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Point of view can be categorized mainly into first-person, second-person, and third-person perspectives, each offering different levels of insight into characters' thoughts and emotions.
2. An unreliable narrator presents a biased or distorted interpretation of events, leading readers to question the truthfulness of the narrative.
3. Editing for clarity often involves considering point of view to ensure consistency and coherence throughout the story.
4. In flash fiction, point of view is crucial as limited word count requires concise expression of character thoughts and emotions within a chosen perspective.
5. Finding your unique voice involves experimenting with different points of view to discover how they affect your storytelling style.

Review Questions

• How does point of view influence the reliability of a narrator in a story?
  • Point of view directly impacts how reliable a narrator is perceived to be. An unreliable narrator can create doubt and tension within a story by providing skewed or deceptive information based on their perspective. For example, if a story is told from a first-person point of view where the narrator has personal biases or limited knowledge, readers may find it challenging to trust their account, leading to deeper engagement as they sift through clues to uncover the truth.
• Discuss the role of point of view in enhancing clarity and concision during the editing process.
  • During editing, point of view plays a crucial role in enhancing clarity and concision by ensuring that the narrative maintains a consistent perspective throughout. By focusing on one particular viewpoint, writers can eliminate unnecessary details that may confuse readers or dilute the impact of the story. This tightens the narrative, making it easier for readers to follow along and grasp the main themes without distractions that could arise from shifting perspectives.
• Evaluate how experimenting with different points of view can help writers develop their unique voice.
  • Experimenting with various points of view allows writers to explore different narrative styles and tones that can reveal their unique voice. Each perspective offers distinct advantages; for instance, first-person can create intimacy with characters while third-person omniscient provides a broader understanding of events. By trying out these viewpoints, writers can determine which aligns best with their storytelling goals, ultimately shaping their voice in a way that resonates with their audience and enhances their overall narrative style.

Related terms

Narrator: The voice that tells the story, which can be a character in the narrative or an external observer, and whose perspective shapes the reader's understanding.

Perspective: The particular attitude or way of considering something, which can influence how events and characters are portrayed in a story.

Voice:

The distinct style or tone of the narrative, which is shaped by point of view and influences how characters and situations are presented.