Lewis' Book of Reviews and Writing Advice

POV

Today, Ink Jars, we'll be discussing "POV" which--for those of you who don't know--stands for "Point of View." This refers to whether or not you'll be writing your story from your character's perspective or an all-knowing view. This is a decision that will impact your entire story and should be decided very early on.

Choices:

1.) First Person. First person is very popular and is generally used. It does make your character seem closer to the reader, but can be difficult to master because it is more than just words on the page. You're basically telling a story as if it happened to you so therefore you need to use a particular voice according to your character. I'm reading a book with a British character and she'll say things like: "He was a nice chap," which her brother--being American--would never say. The story can be more conversational and requires a little less detail. This POV would be written with words like: "I" and "me."

2.) Third Person. Third person can be written a variety of ways. It can either be the "all knowing" third person. For this, you can jump between thoughts without constraints and may write about everything. Then there is another version where the reader can only see some things. For example, each chapter will be from a different characters point of view. This POV would be written with words like: "She" and "he" and "They."

3.) Second Person. This POV is rarely used. It's frustration to read. Not that it can't  or shouldn't be exercised, but I wouldn't generally write a second person story. The book or story is told from the reader's perspective. EXAMPLE: "You're walking down a dimly lit hall way and come upon a man in dark robes. He greets you with rotting teeth and black eyes."

Surprisingly enough, it actually is acceptable to mix these Point of Views--if you do it right. You need to make it clear to the reader when you're switching and make it important. So if you want, the prolog can be written third person while the rest is second! You will probably require a lot more editing and beta readers if that is your plan.

DEFINITION: Beta Readers are people who "proof read" your book before you "send it out."

Here are a couple short videos on youtube and online articles which may help you decide what's best with your story and may help you improve whichever point of view you intend to pursue:

1.) "Don't Even think about using first-person unless..." -KM. Weiland (2 & one half minutes total youtube video)

2.) "Mixing First and Third Person POV" by How to write a book now (Online article)

3.) "POV: Point of View." (video on youtube, 9 & one half minutes total) This one is pretty generic, but it does have some good suggestions

4.) http://www.advancedfictionwriting.com/blog/2012/05/16/perfecting-that-pesky-point-of-view/

(I would DEFINITELY check out this website! If you are unable to put in the link here is the title of the website: "Advanced Fiction Writing." And the title of the article is: "Perfecting that Pesky Point of View."

NOTE: K.M. Weiland (the first youtube video) has a TON of helpful, VERY SHORT writing videos which I watch all the time. Definitely check her out for more advice on all different subjects. Like I said, I've grown as a writer because of her.

If you liked having these extra links, let me know and I can add them to future or past chapters! For personal writing help, message me and I'll give advice on any writing topic.  Thank you for your time, your faithful writer, Lewis