It's All From the Point of ViewWritten by Theresa Chaze
It’s all from Point of View By Theresa ChazePoint of view is one of most important aspects of writing and is most common of all writing mistakes. Its purpose is to direct readers attention where writers wishes it to go. There are three classifications of point of view: first person, omniscient, and third person. Each classification has its own benefits and rules, which limit writer but also add depth to story and flush out characters. When determining what type of point of view writer will be working from she/he must first consider what kind of feel she/he is looking for in story. First person is more intimate, yet it is also very limiting. The omniscient point of view sees all, yet feels nothing; there is no connection to characters or reasons behind their actions. Third person is a combination of first two; third person is different from first by pronouns used and how much information is available. While first is limited to what one character sees, feels and knows, third is a step backward to also include what is happening around character. The information can be included even if character isn‘t aware of situation. If writer was looking for action thriller, omniscient or third would be best point of view to work from; however if writer was looking to explore inner workings of a character, first person would give reader inside access to what, why and how character thinks. First person is a story told from main character’s point of view. I and me are main pronouns. The benefits include intimacy and a very full character development. The reader gets to know exactly what motivates character--all loves, fears, hopes, and thinking process. However it is very limited. Action that happens outside of character’s knowledge is only known if another character shares information. One character is known very well, however others are only seen through main character’s perspective. For example, if main character is paranoid, she or he could see others evil or a threat and act accordingly. This may not be true. But told in first person, reader would never know true motivations or actions of other characters. Omniscient point of view is told from outside of all characters. There is no personal involvement. Pronouns are she, he, or they. What happens and when are only details reader is given. It is like watching a movie. If omniscient has been chosen, everything is visual. If a character laughs or cries, reader is told what they are doing, but not why they are doing it. Using same example, character could be shown staring at others and being hostile when approached. The reader wouldn’t know why, only that character is angry and aggressive when approached. Third person point of view is described as having an angel sitting on character’s shoulder. The angel knows what character is feeling, thinking and seeing, but is also aware what is happening around character even if character doesn’t know. Once again pronouns are she, he, or they, but in this case when referring to thoughts of main character I or me can also be used. In third person, reader would know that character thinks others are out to harm her or him, however angel on shoulder would objectively show others’ actions. The reader would then know if others were actually out to get main character or if it was just a delusion.
| | A First Time Author's Publicity Kit MaterialsWritten by Laura Hickey
If you're a new author that has been requested to send publicist materials, you may feel left in dark on what to send. Here's a list of usual items.1. Author Bio This is no place for modesty. You're competing with many other authors out there and need to show how your hot and worth it. Remember to include your accomplishments and give a little background information. Often readers want to know about author's interests.. 2. A photo This is optional, but if you want to get your face out there, this could help. Keep in mind that not every editor will use your photo. 3. Interviews Any newspaper/magazine clippings may be include if it's related to you and your writing, awards an accomplishments. Clippings about your personal life may bore editor requesting your materials.
|