What Is Point of View in Writing, and How Does It Work?

Parker Yamasaki

Every piece of writing has a point of view. A novel, an academic research paper, your journal, and this blog post all have a point of view. Point of view in writing is the position from which a story is told. A simple way to think about point of view is to ask: Where is the narrator?  Give your writing extra polish Grammarly helps you communicate confidently Write with Grammarly

What is point of view?

Point of view is the writer’s way of deciding who is telling the story to whom . Establishing a clear point of view is important because it dictates how your reader interprets characters, events, and other important details. There are three kinds of point of view: first person, second person, and third person. 

First-person point of view  

In first-person point of view, the reader accesses the story through one person. It’s like reading the main character’s diary. You will notice pronouns like I , me / my , we , us , or our in first-person writing. This limits the scope of what a reader can know about other characters, but it is truest to how we live our lives.

There are two ways to write in first person:

  • First-person central : The narrator is also the protagonist of the story. For example, in To Kill a Mockingbird , Scout is both the main character and the narrator, meaning this novel is written in first-person central.
  • First-person peripheral : The narrator is telling the story of the protagonist from close by. One famous example is F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby . The story of Gatsby is told not by Gatsby himself but by a narrator named Nick, a friend and neighbor of Gatsby’s.

Why write in first person?  

  • Identification : The reader is discovering information right alongside the narrator, so they identify more closely with them. First-person writing creates a feeling of “we’re in this together.”
  • Opinion : If your piece is heavily dependent on opinions, then it’s a good idea to establish whose opinion it is. This can be the fictional opinion of a character or the opinion of the writer. Either way, using the pronoun I ensures the opinion won’t be read as fact.
  • Intrigue : The limits of a character’s knowledge can play to the advantage of the writer if you want to create mystery around other characters. For example, the narrator’s distance from the subject in The Great Gatsby creates a sense of intrigue about Gatsby.

Second-person point of view

Second-person point of view uses the pronoun you . This point of view establishes the reader as the protagonist or main character. It is the most difficult point of view to maintain in a longer piece of creative writing. As a writer, you want your reader to be engrossed, engaged, and enthralled but . . . involved? There is a time and place for second person, such as nonfiction, advertising, immersive stories, and this blog post. There are some examples of second-person point of view in novels, which we’ll explore later in this article. Just know that it’s the most challenging and least-often-used point of view in fiction.

Why write in second person?

  • Uniqueness : It’s unusual to find the second-person point of view in creative writing. Write in second person for a creative challenge or to create a novel experience for your reader.
  • Space for reflection : By inserting the pronoun you into writing, you’re addressing the reader directly. This is a useful way to generate space for their personal contemplation.

Third-person point of view

In third-person point of view, the narrator has the ability to know everything. You’ll see the pronouns he / his , she / her , they / them / their , and it / its in third-person point of view. This point of view allows for the greatest flexibility and also creates the most complexity.

There are three ways to write in the third person:  

  • Third-person omniscient : The narrator speaks freely about everyone and everything. There are no limits to the time, space, or character the narrator can access.
  • Third-person limited omniscient (also called third-person close ): The author writes in third person but keeps the thoughts and feelings limited to one central character. The Harry Potter series is an example of third-person limited omniscient. The reader has access to scenes across time and space, but they are only ever in the head of Harry himself. 
  • Third-person objective : The narrator is a neutral entity, relying on observations of characters rather than getting in their heads. It’s writing from a fly-on-the-wall perspective. Ernest Hemingway was a master of third-person objective. Hemingway’s short story “Hills Like White Elephants” is the most popular example of this rare style in fiction. 

Why write in third person?

  • Complexity : The possibilities are endless in third-person writing. The writer is not limited by the thoughts, observations, or movements of a single character, which gives them the opportunity to build more complex worlds, plots, and characters.
  • Flexibility : Third-person narration is not bordered by time or space, so the writer can move the story wherever they want to.
  • Authoritative narrator : Human beings are inherently biased, so removing the narrator’s subjectivity can make the writing feel more authoritative.

How to create point of view

If you’ve always written your journal in first-person central, you’ve probably never stopped and asked yourself, Should I write this entry in first-person central? Your choice is instinctual. More often than not, the correct point of view is the one that comes most naturally. However, if you want to be more deliberate with your point of view or try a new technique, here are some things to consider:

1 Look at the genre : Are there any established points of view for the type of writing you’re doing? Read other examples to find out. Personal essays are typically written in first person, self-help books tend to take on second person, and journalism is most often written in third person. Turn to writing that you admire or want to emulate and see if you can determine what point of view it is written in.

2 Think about complexity : First person requires you to have a deep understanding of the narrator, while third person requires knowledge of all of your characters. 

3 Establish the point of view immediately : Don’t leave your reader hanging on for too long. A good rule of thumb is to situate your reader within the first two paragraphs. 

4 Trust your gut : Like so much in writing, sometimes you just have to feel it out! If you’re unsure whether something sounds better in first or third person, try writing a portion of it both ways. Which one comes more naturally? Which one feels more forced? Often the point of view that feels better to write is the one that feels better to read.

Can you switch the point of view?

Point of view is an unspoken contract between you and your reader, so you should try and stay consistent. Changing points of view without warning would be like suddenly calling your mom by her first name—it’s a jarring experience for everyone. However, you probably wouldn’t call her office and ask to speak to “mom.” There are rare but appropriate situations where changing points of view makes sense. 

One instance is when you want to create a moment of reflection for the reader. In this case, you might shift into a second-person point of view. For example, if there is a moral question at the end of an  allegory , the writer can switch into the second person and ask what you , the reader, might do in this situation. This is one way you can use points of view as a  literary device , which is a strategy to enhance your writing. Some authors, like Haruki Murakami and Italo Calvino, purposefully change the point of view throughout their stories as an imaginative way to enhance the reader’s experience.

Point of view examples

Like we said, every piece of writing has a point of view. Here are some examples of points of view in literature:  

First person (peripheral)

“When I came back from the East last autumn I felt that I wanted the world to be in uniform and at a sort of moral attention forever; I wanted no more riotous excursions with privileged glimpses into the human heart. Only Gatsby, the man who gives his name to this book, was exempt from my reaction—Gatsby, who represented everything for which I have an unaffected scorn.”

—The Great Gatsby , by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald’s narrator, the “I” in the example above, is a man named Nick. Though the central character of the book is Gatsby, the reader learns Gatsby’s story through the personal perspective of a nearby narrator.

Second person

“You are about to begin reading Italo Calvino’s new novel, If on a winter’s night a traveler . Relax. Concentrate. Dispel every other thought. Let the world around you fade. Best to close the door; the TV is always on in the next room. Tell the others right away, ‘No, I don’t want to watch TV!’”

— If on a winter’s night a traveler , by Italo Calvino

Calvino was famous for his innovative writing techniques. In this example from the opening lines of his novel, Calvino is directly addressing the reader in second person, instructing them how to read his book.  

Third person (objective)

“The American and the girl with him sat at a table in the shade, outside the building. It was very hot and the express from Barcelona would come in forty minutes. It stopped at this junction for two minutes and went on to Madrid.

‘What should we drink?’ the girl asked. She had taken off her hat and put it on the table.

‘It’s pretty hot,’ the man said. 

‘Let’s drink beer.’

‘Dos cervezas,’ the man said into the curtain. 

‘Big ones?’ a woman asked from the doorway. 

‘Yes. Two big ones.’”

—“Hills Like White Elephants,” by Ernest Hemingway

This dialogue is told from a fly-on-the-wall perspective. The narrator is not talking about themself (there is no “I”), and the reader has access to every character’s behaviors equally. It is purely observational.

Point of view FAQs

What is point of view in writing.

Point of view in writing is the position the narrator speaks from. It is who is speaking to whom .

How does point of view work?

Point of view is expressed through the author’s use of pronouns, which reveal the narrator’s position. In first person, the narrator uses the pronoun I throughout the writing. In second person, the narrator uses the pronoun you . In third person, the narrator uses the pronouns she / he / they / it .

What are the different kinds of point of view?

There are three kinds of point of view: first person, second person, and third person.

When should you use point of view in writing?

Every piece of writing has a point of view. Sometimes the point of view is chosen for us by the genre we are writing in. For example, most journalism is required to be written in third person. However, there are different strengths and weaknesses to each point of view, and it is up to the writer to decide which one serves their writing best.

importance of point of view in creative writing

Podium School

What is Point of View in Creative Writing?

Point of View is the perspective from which a  narrative  is designed and told. Point of view is considered to be the pivotal component in  creative writing  and literature especially in the work of  fiction . In this creative  writing  lesson, we will learn the following:

What is “Point of View” in Creative Writing?

Importance of point of view in creative writing, first-person point of view, second-person point of view, third-person point of view, other examples of point of view in creative writing.

The Point of view is said to be the “eyes” of the narratives. It describes the perspective which the author wants to pass on to the readers or the audiences through their creative work. Authors hold the prime hold of how he wants to shape the story so that a particular mindset of the reader is shaped through the work of literature. Various famous writers have re-told stories in such a manner that their point of view to the readers have got completely changed in comparison to the original text.

Point of view adds to the innovation and attractiveness of literature. Change in the viewpoint of a story may affect the readers to a great extent. It gives them an entirely new experience to read the text.

Point of view changes according to the character, their background, the boldness of the character, and also according to the situations that the characters of the story face throughout the narrative. There is also a possibility that the  protagonist  of the story represents the author himself.

Point of View is a big weapon in the hands of the author to make it appealing and interesting enough for the readers. In simple terms point of view is the process in which a writer expresses his intentions to the readers.

Terms related to Point of View

It is extremely important to understand the terms which are related to the concept of Point of View. Two such terms are the narrator and the viewpoint.

The narrator is the one who tells the story. There are various  types  of narrators like that of the external narrator or internal narrator.

Viewpoint is something that explains how a particular thing is looked at or how a certain situation is judged in literature. A single event can result in varied viewpoints which are possessed by different individuals.

Point of view makes the readers understand the  emotions  and feelings which the characters in a narrative are going through. Moreover, each character of a story gives a different and unique perspective to the story. Adding to this if we read a story from a character’s point of view and the perspective externally as a character is two different things. These perspectives gradually unfold the story in a better way.

A story may be given a different point of view by the author but it can be revealed in a much different way by the readers and the audiences. This is how point of view is significant to literature.

Types of Point of View in Literature

importance of point of view in creative writing

There are three types of point of view in the literature that is the first-person point of view, second-person point of view and third-person point of view. Although, the first and third-person point of view is more commonly used in literature. The usage of a second-person point of view is less.

The first-person point of view means that one of the characters of the story is narrating the work of literature. The viewpoint of the story is explained by using the pronoun ‘I’. The reader in the first person gets a close look and gets a very intimate perspective regarding the character of the story. Also, this helps us to understand the feelings and thoughts of the character better. But the only drawback in this is there is a limited perspective of only what the character depicts. 

For example, first person point of view was used in “The  Adventures  of Huckleberry Finn”.

In the second-person point of view the pronoun ‘you’ is used. Using this pronoun, the author wants to attract the reader and involve them in the story in a better way. This is a rarely used point of view in literature. The second-person point of view is quite a confusing point of view for the writer and may also alienate the readers from reading the text. This is also less used in novels because of the various drawbacks attached to this point of view. 

‘The Dark’ by Carol Ann Duffy’ is a great example of second-person point of view.

In the third person of pronouns like ‘he’, ‘she’, and ‘it’ is used to depict the narrative. This point of view is further divided into two types. The first one is Omniscient which means that the narrator is fully aware of the complete story and its happenings. The second type is limited where the narrator does not know every detail of how the story goes about. 

Examples  which are included in third person point of view are ‘Beloved’, ‘Lord of the Flies’, and ‘Little Women’.

It is not necessary for authors to only choose one particular type of point of view but it can be an amalgamation of all three types or two of them.

  •  “Invisible Man” by Ralph Ellison  uses the first-person point of view in narration. The protagonist gives a very close but limited thought by expressing himself in the story. It gives the reader to understand the point of view only according to what the narrator expresses about himself. 
  • “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin  uses a third-person point of view in the short story. It involves a relationship that is built between the narrator of the story and the reader to understand the character of the story that is Louise Mallard. 
  • “The Death of Ivan Ilych” by Leo Tolstoy  uses an omniscient point of view which the author uses to relay the messages to its readers.

Share with your friends

Related Posts:

narratives-in-creative-writing-768×543.png

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Features for Creative Writers
  • Features for Work
  • Features for Higher Education
  • Features for Teachers
  • Features for Non-Native Speakers
  • Learn Blog Grammar Guide Community Academy FAQ
  • Grammar Guide

Point of View: What Is It? (With 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th POV Examples)

Hannah Yang headshot

Hannah Yang

point of view

One of the most powerful tools in a writer’s toolkit is point of view.

So, what is point of view in literature, and why is it important?

The short answer is that point of view, also called POV, refers to the angle from which a story is told. It includes the specific character who’s telling the story, as well as the way the author filters the story through that character to the reader.

This article will discuss the different points of view you can use in writing, including their strengths, weaknesses, and examples from literature.

What Is Point of View in Writing and Literature?

The importance of point of view, summary of the different points of view, first person point of view, second person point of view, third person point of view, fourth person point of view, what about alternating point of view, conclusion on point of view.

Point of view refers to the perspective through which a story is told.

To understand point of view, try this quick exercise. Imagine you’re telling a story about a well-traveled stranger who enters a small, rural town.

What are all the different perspectives you could tell this story from?

You might tell it from the perspective of the stranger who has never seen this town before and views all of its buildings and streets through fresh eyes.

You might tell it from the collective perspective of the townspeople, who are curious about who this stranger is and why he’s come to this part of the world.

You might even tell it from the perspective of an all-seeing entity, who can see into the minds of both the stranger and the townspeople, all at the same time.

Each of these options centers a different point of view—a different angle for the reader to approach the same story.

Point of view is one of the most important aspects of your story that you must decide before putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). It can have an enormous impact on the tone, style, and even plot of the story.

Each point of view has its own strengths and limitations. In order to choose the right POV, you have to know what you want your story to accomplish.

For example, if you choose first person POV, you’ll be able to immerse the reader in a single character’s voice, humor, and worldview. On the other hand, you also have to show the world with that character’s biases and flawed observations.

The right POV can also completely change the way the story feels. POV is a matter of choice, but one that affects every part of your story or novel.

F. Scott Fitzgerald had to rewrite The Great Gatsby because he initially wrote it in Gatsby’s voice. He decided it would be much more powerful coming from Nick’s more naïve point of view. Imagine that masterpiece with a different point of view—it wouldn’t have the same objective, reliable feeling that it has now.

There are four main points of view that we’ll be discussing in this article: first person, second person, third person (with two subtypes: limited and omniscient), and fourth person.

  • First person (“ I pet the cat because I think it looks cute.”)
  • Second person (“ You pet the cat because you think it looks cute.”)
  • Third person limited (“ She pets the cat because she thinks it looks cute.”) and third person omniscient (“ She pets the cat because she thinks it looks cute. Little does she know, this cat is actually an alien in disguise.”)
  • Fourth person (“ We pet the cat because we think it looks cute.”)

The four point of views

Read on to learn the strengths and weaknesses of each of these points of view.

With first person point of view, everything is told intimately from the viewpoint of a character, usually your protagonist. The author uses the first person pronouns I and me to show readers what this character sees and thinks.

First person is the best way to show the story from one person’s point of view because you have an individual person telling you her story directly in her own words. It’s also the easiest way to tell a story that uses a distinct, quirky voice.

The limitations of first person point of view, however, restrict you to only describing what this character sees, thinks, and feels, and sometimes that narrator can be unreliable.

first person strengths and weaknesses

First Person POV Examples

One great example of first person POV is The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath. The narrator is a flawed character, but we see the world entirely through her eyes, complete with her own faults and sorrows. Here’s a short excerpt:

“I began to think vodka was my drink at last. It didn’t taste like anything, but it went straight down into my stomach like a sword swallowers’ sword and made me feel powerful and godlike.”

Compare that with the intimacy you get when reading Scout’s view of things in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird . She speaks with a childlike innocence, giving the reader that same feeling, even if we understand the racism of her town better than she does herself.

“We lived on the main residential street in town—Atticus, Jem and I, plus Calpurnia our cook. Jem and I found our father satisfactory: he played with us, read to us, and treated us with courteous detachment.”

Second person point of view, which uses the pronoun you , is one of the least used POVs in literature because it places the reader in the hot seat and is hard to manage for a full-length novel. It’s used in experimental literature to try out new styles of writing.

In the wrong hands, it just feels gimmicky. But when done well, second person point of view can accomplish a range of wonderful effects.

Second Person POV Examples

“Story of Your Life” by Ted Chiang is a fantastic example of second person POV. It takes the form of a story a mother tells her daughter to explain the circumstances of the daughter’s life. Because the mother is speaking directly to the daughter, the story is imbued with an extra sense of intimacy.

“Right now your dad and I have been married for about two years, living on Ellis Avenue; when we move out you’ll still be too young to remember the house, but we’ll show you pictures of it, tell you stories about it.”

The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin is a Hugo-winning fantasy novel that uses many different POVs, including second person. The second person point of view serves to provide a feeling of disorientation, like the protagonist needs to talk to herself to remind herself what’s going on. Here’s a short excerpt from the very beginning of the story:

“You are she. She is you. You are Essun. Remember? The woman whose son is dead.”

Third person point of view uses pronouns like he , she , and it . This POV allows the reader to follow a character, or multiple characters, from a more distanced perspective than first or second person.

Third Person Limited vs Third Person Omniscient

There are two subtypes of third person point of view: limited and omniscient.

In third person limited, the story follows only one character’s viewpoint throughout the entire piece. This means your reader sees only what the third person narrator sees and learns things at the same time the third person narrator does.

You can show what your main character thinks, feels, and sees, which helps close the emotional distance between your reader and the main character.

This is an excellent POV to use when your story focuses on a single character. In many ways, third person limited is quite similar to first person, even though it involves different pronouns.

The drawback with third person limited POV is that you can only follow one character. Showing other characters’ thoughts and feelings is a no-no.

The other type of third person POV is third person omniscient. In this POV, the story is told from the perspective of an omniscient narrator, who can see inside the heads of all the characters in the story.

This is a great POV to use when you have multiple characters, each with their own plot line to follow, and you want your reader to see everything as it unfolds. It’s also useful for imparting universal messages and philosophies, since the narrator can draw conclusions that no character would be able to on its own.

The downside to third person omniscient is that it can be emotionally distant from the story. Because you’re constantly jumping around to different characters and their story arcs, it’s harder for your reader to get as emotionally involved with your characters.

3rd person omniscient vs limited

Third Person POV Examples

Examples of the third person limited POV are the Harry Potter novels. The reader sees everything that’s going on, but is limited to Harry’s point of view. We’re surprised when Harry is surprised, and we find out the resolution at the ending when Harry does. Here’s a short excerpt from the seventh book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows:

“Harry sat up and examined the jagged piece on which he had cut himself, seeing nothing but his own bright green eye reflected back at him.”

An excellent example of third person omniscient POV is Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables . The reader sees everything that is happening in the story and gets a vivid lesson in politics and society in France’s history.

“He was cunning, rapacious, indolent and shrewd, and by no means indifferent to maidservants, which was why his wife no longer kept any.”

Fourth person is a newer POV that only recently started to be recognized as a distinct POV. It involves a collective perspective, using the plural pronouns we and us .

This POV allows you to tell a story from the perspective of a group, rather than an individual. Since there’s no singular narrative, this option is great for critiquing larger institutions and social norms. Fourth person is even rarer than second person, but when it’s done well, it can be very powerful.

Fourth Person POV Examples

“A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner is told from the perspective of an entire town.

“We did not say she was crazy then. We believed she had to do that. We remembered all the young men her father had driven away, and we knew that with nothing left, she would have to cling to that which had robbed her, as people will.”

The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides is told from the perspective of a group of teenage boys.

“They were short, round-buttocked in denim, with roundish cheeks that recalled that same dorsal softness. Whenever we got a glimpse, their faces looked indecently revealed, as though we were used to seeing women in veils.”

You might choose to write a novel or story with multiple different points of view.

Some books have two main characters and switch back and forth between their perspectives—this is very common in the romance genre, for instance. Others rotate between three or more characters.

how to alternate point of views

Alternating POV is a great option if your story features multiple main characters, all of whom play an equally important role in the story. The biggest drawback is that you risk confusing your reader when you switch back and forth.

Make sure your reader knows when you’re switching POVs. One common solution is to include a chapter break each time the perspective changes. Some books change the font for each POV, or even the color of the typeface.

It’s also important to make sure each character has a distinct voice. For example, maybe one character writes with short, brusque sentences, while another writes with long, flowery sentences. Keeping the different POVs distinct is crucial for success.

There you have it—a complete guide to point of view and how to choose the right POV for your story.

Before you start experimenting with point of view, get comfortable with the basics first. Read works by authors who use these different POVs with great success to understand how each POV changes the narrative arc of the story.

Happy writing!

importance of point of view in creative writing

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

Get started with ProWritingAid

Drop us a line or let's stay in touch via :

The Art of Narrative

Learn to write.

importance of point of view in creative writing

Point of View: The Ultimate Guide

Answer all your questions about how to write in first, second, and third person point of view. Every point of view is covered including how to use tense.

importance of point of view in creative writing

I’ve been staring at my screen for ten minutes trying to come up with a hook that somehow, someway will lead off an article about literary point of view. I’ve come to a definite conclusion: you can’t. To do so would subvert the laws of man, physics and God. It’s impossible. I defy you to try it.

Anyway, let’s talk about POV.  

If you’re a beginning writer you might not think much about point of view. But, you should.

All writers should spend significant time considering what POV they’ll use for a story, and why. POV is as important to a story as is your plot , characters , setting , etc.

What is point of view in writing?

what is point of view in writing?

Point of view tells your reader who is important in your story. It affects the relationship your reader builds with your characters. And, if done poorly, the point of view can ruin an otherwise perfect story.

You’d like to avoid that, wouldn’t you? Of course! So, for your consideration, I bring to you the ultimate guide to point of view.

(Is it really the ultimate guide to POV? Probably not, but it makes for a good title, right?)

In this article I will explain every type of POV you could possibly use in your writing, and when to use each one. I’ll also answer all your burning questions about POV. You know the ones you’ve always wondered about but didn’t want to ask.

More importantly, I’ll cover some of the common POV mistakes and how to avoid them.

But first, let’s start with the basics-

Point of view is the term used to describe who the author chooses to tell their story. But really, and more importantly, it’s who your reader is engaging with.

When we talk about point of view we’re talking about the narrator. An author might have the main character or a secondary character speak directly to the reader as if you are reading that character’s journal.

Or, the narrator might not be in the story at all, but a voice above the fray who can describe the action of a story.

The narrator may also know certain characters’ thoughts and feelings about the events unfolding. While some POVs will insert the reader directly into the action of the story.

The point is, point of view is an important consideration for any story, and mistakes in POV can ruin a story. So, it’s important to choose your POV carefully and avoid the common pitfalls.

With that said, let’s discuss the different types of POV, why they are used, and the common POV mistakes that you need to avoid.

What are the different types of point of view?

Point of view can be divided into three categories- first person, second person, and third person. Third person point of view can be broken down further into limited, omniscient, and objective.

All POVs can be written either in the past or present tense.

Let’s take a look at each of these individually.

First Person Point of View

What is first person point of view?

What is First Person Point of View?

You’re the reader and the character is telling you the story. You and the character are like old friends; they’re very open with you about their thoughts and feelings. It’s as if you’re reading their journal. Usually, the perspective character is the main character of the story, but not always.

Take, for instance, The Great Gatsby which is written in the first person, but the perspective character is Nick Caraway. Nick takes part in the events of the story and relays them to the reader, but he is not the main character.

However, this is an exception, not the rule. Your point of view character should be the protagonist unless you have a good reason for them not to be.

You’ll know your reading a story in the first person when you see pronouns like I, me, or my. The character is the narrator, so they will be speaking directly to the reader.  

How to write First Person Point of View

Writing from a first person point of view is a solid choice if your beginning writer. It’s a straightforward perspective that isn’t too difficult to work with. Choose a character, like your protagonist, and write the story as if they are retelling the events to the reader.

If you choose the first person perspective you’ll need to know your character intimately. You want their personality to remain consistent throughout the narrative. That is unless they’re a dynamic character . Even then, changes in the character will need to have a cause that develops from your plot.

Interview your point of view character. Know their background, what their fears are, and what motivates them. The challenge of the first-person perspective is keeping your character’s voice, actions, and reactions consistent and believable.  

In other words, don’t change your character’s personality for the needs of the plot. What does that mean? If your character has been even-keeled and calm throughout the story don’t force them to blow up in anger because you need to inject some tension into a scene.

Know your perspective character, and don’t deviate from the personality that you’ve established, unless that change is earned through the narrative. Your reader will notice otherwise.  

When to use First Person Point of View

There are times when using the first person perspective is axiomatic like when writing a memoir or a personal essay. The first person POV is a good choice for writers who are just starting out. The limited nature of first person will help beginning writers avoid some common POV mistakes such as head-hopping. But, more on that later.

Because of its natural limits, the first person is a good choice if there are details of the plot that you want to hide from the reader. Take the example of an unreliable narrator who is lying about the events of the story. Discovering new information a narrator has kept hidden can be an exciting revelation for your reader.

Or, because your writing from the perspective of one character, the reader can discover story details as your character does. This works to great effect in the genres of mystery, horror, and romance. These genres require the character, and reader to work through the details of an event slowly to discover startling truths.

Lastly, the first person POV is a good choice if you’re writing a small, character-driven plot with a limited cast. However, it’s not the best choice for your epic, world-building fantasy.

Example of First Person Point of View

“I couldn’t forgive him or like him, but I saw that what he had done was, to him, entirely justified. It was all very careless and confused. They were careless people, Tom and Daisy—they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made.”

― F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

Learn about first-person point of view here!

What is second person point of view?

What is Second Person Point of View?

You, the reader, are now in the story. You are the protagonist. You’re taking part in the action. Not literally, obviously. Not yet anyway. Until some advances in VR second person will remain figurative.

The writer uses pronouns like you and your. In fiction, this is not a very common practice. But, you will find the second person POV a lot in non-fiction works. Instructional texts like cookbooks are written in second-person. Think, “You’ll need to preheat your oven to 450 degrees. ”

Why isn’t Second Person Point of View popular?

The limitation of the second person perspective is that you’re asking your readers to put themselves directly into the story. This takes considerable suspension of disbelief on their part. And, it may put your reader off as they’re not used to reading this kind of narrative.

The second person point of view tells your reader that they are someone they’re not. That the events of the story are happening to them, the reader. It’s a funky style, let’s be honest. Reserved, mostly, for those “choose your adventure” books we read as children.

However, when executed well, this funkiness is the secret strength of the second-person perspective. What better way to encourage your reader to empathize with a character and experience a new perspective.

While not traditional, a story written in the second-person perspective could be a great way to set your work apart from the pack. But, only if you put in the effort to make it work. Know that an editor will ask the question- “Why did you choose second person POV?” If you don’t have an obvious answer, revealed in the text, this may be a weakness.

When it comes to digital storytelling though, second person POV could be the dominant perspective. Maybe we should start practicing…  

Example of Second Person Point of View

“Things happen, people change,’ is what Amanda said. For her that covered it. You wanted an explanation, and ending that would assign blame and dish up justice. You considered violence and you considered reconciliation. But what you are left with is a premonition of the way your life will fade behind you, like a book you have read too quickly, leaving a dwindling trail of images and emotions, until all you can remember is a name.”

― Jay McInerney, Bright Lights, Big City

Third Person Limited Point of View

What is third person limited point of view?

What is Third Person Limited Point of View?

Take one step above the story. The narrator is no longer in the fray and action. They are on the outside looking in, commenting on the action. The narrator tells the reader what is happening, and what the perspective character is thinking and feeling.

A third person limited perspective means that we are limited (get it?) to a single character at a time. So, it’s like the first person perspective, but rather than a character speaking directly to us, the narrator is telling us what the character is doing, thinking and feeling.

How to write Third Person Limited Point of View

The first thing you want to do is choose a character to limit yourself to. More than likely, this will be your protagonist. You may also switch to another perspective character in your story.

However, don’t switch character perspectives within the confines of a single scene, or even a chapter. In truth, you may want to keep your perspective limited to the same character throughout the narrative.

There are examples of rotating perspective when using third person limited. Authors who do this will change the perspective characters from one character to the next. For clarity, chapters are usually named after the point of view character in that chapter.

How to describe characters in Third Person Limited Point of View

This is a question that comes up when writing from a limited point of view. Character descriptions can be tricky because overtly describing a non-POV character’s emotions would count as a slip in POV. You don’t want that.

Rely on the old adage- show, don’t tell. If a non-POV character is upset then have them slam a door, throw a punch, or break a window. Demonstrate emotion through action, not through adverbs.  

Remember that your narration is limited physically, as well. Your narration can’t describe anything the point of view character isn’t able to see, touch, taste, hear or smell directly. The character’s eyes are your window into the world of the story. Keep this in mind when describing the different aspects of your story.

When to use Third Person Limited Point of View

Much like first person point of view, the third person is used when you want to limit the reader’s perspective. Use this POV when you want your readers to spend time with, and become very familiar with a character or cast of characters. When you want your reader to become attached to your protagonist(s). Third person POV is perfect for your character-driven story arcs.

Choose third person POV over first person when your story has several character arcs to explore. An example would be the Harry Potter series. Sure, Harry is important, but we care about Hermione and Ron too.  

Also, the third person limited POV works well in mysteries, horrors, and crime stories. This is because you can easily hide information from your reader like you can with first person POV.

Because of its versatility, third person limited is the most popular POV in modern fiction. Readers and editors are used to reading in third person limited POV. In most cases, third person limited POV will be a good choice for your story. .  

Example of Third Person Limited Point of View

“For the first time, he heard something that he knew to be music. He heard people singing. Behind him, across vast distances of space and time, from the place he had left, he thought he heard music too. But perhaps, it was only an echo.”

― Lois Lowry, The Giver

Third Person Omniscient Point of View

What is third person omniscient point of view?

What is Third Person Omniscient Point of View?

You’re the reader, and the narrator is God. They can give you access to every character’s thoughts and feelings, at the same time. Third person omniscient is like third person limited in that the narrator is separate from the story.

However, the narrator is not limited to one character’s viewpoint when describing the story. The narrator has full knowledge of all the characters and has no preference for any single character. Common pronouns used with third person omniscient are “he,” and “she.”

How to write in Third Person Omniscient Point of View

Third person omniscient can be challenging as you have a lot of characters to keep up with. Each major character will need the same attention from the narrator. It can also be difficult to keep your narrative focused with the POV spread out like this.

Use this perspective to insert your own authorial voice into the narrative. As the narrator, you can comment on the action of the story, or the characters. But, beware that this is not a style of writing that is currently in vogue.

The third person omniscient POV does provide a lot of creative freedom, though. Because of the “God-like” presence of the narrator, you’re not hemmed in by a lot of rules. The author can describe anything that a character is thinking, wearing, doing, seeing, etc.

When to use Third Person Omniscient Point of View

Never. Just kidding, but keep this in mind:

The third person omniscient perspective, while once omnipresent, is not very popular anymore. It’s a good choice if you have a plethora of characters in your story. This is because this perspective gives you the ability to inhabit any character in the story. However, realize this will make developing any single character difficult.

Choose the third person omniscient POV when you have a very strong voice, and you want the narrative commentary to take the center stage of your story.

Example of Third Person Omniscient Point of View  

“A man’s at odds to know his mind cause his mind is aught he has to know it with. He can know his heart, but he don’t want to. Rightly so. Best not to look in there. It ain’t the heart of a creature that is bound in the way that God has set for it. You can find meanness in the least of creatures, but when God made man the devil was at his elbow. A creature that can do anything. Make a machine. And a machine to make the machine. And evil that can run itself a thousand years, no need to tend it.”

― Cormac McCarthy, Blood Meridian, or the Evening Redness in the West

Third Person Objective Point of View

What is third person objective point of view?

What is Third Person Objective Point of View?

In the third person objective POV, the reader does not have access to any character’s thoughts or feelings. The narrator is completely objective.

How and when to use Third Person Objective POV

Again, show don’t tell.  

With third person objective, a writer will have to convey all the characters’ emotions through action alone. If you’re a beginning writer try and write at least one story in the third person objective POV. It’s good for practice.

In order to master this POV, a writer must be a keen observer of people in the real world. How do people show their emotions- on their face, in their body language, with words?

How does someone demonstrate they’re angry with their boss? A real person wouldn’t act out dramatically. They wouldn’t flip a table or punch a hole in the drywall (hopefully). Because acting like that would get them fired, probably arrested. They may, instead, make a snide remark, purse their lips, or cross their arms.

The point is, people can be very subtle in how they display their inward feelings. Many people do their best to mask emotions. Others act out for attention. As a writer, you should be able to identify these subtle tells and insert them into your story. Especially if you plan on using the third person objective.

Third person objective POV is also useful in non-fiction. A biographer can’t always comment on the thoughts of feelings of their subject. Especially if the subject has been dead for hundreds of years. In that case, they can only convey a sense of emotion through their subject’s words or actions.

Example of Third Person Objective POV

“When a friend of Abigail and John Adams was killed at Bunker Hill, Abigail’s response was to write a letter to her husband and include these words, “My bursting heart must find vent at my pen.”

― David McCullough, John Adams

Present Tense versus Past Tense in Writing

Using past tense vs. present tense in fiction writing

Most authors choose the past tense when writing fiction. However, some writers choose present tense for their stories. Why?  Immediacy is one reason. Like with second person POV, the use of the present tense can pull a reader into a story in a way that feels intimate. They are experiencing the story along with the narrator in real time.

The downside of writing in the present tense is that you’ll be working against the grain. Most stories are told in the past tense, so unless you have a good narrative purpose for using the present tense you should probably avoid it. Without a clear purpose, using the present tense will come off as gimmicky.

But, I’m no expert on this subject and you can find a very informative post on writing in the past tense here .

Example of Present Tense POV

“I can feel Peeta press his forehead into my temple and he asks, ‘So now that you’ve got me, what are you going to do with me?’ I turn into him. ‘Put you somewhere you can’t get hurt.”

― Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games

Common Point of View mistakes

Head-hopping.

head-hopping and point of view

What is head hopping in writing?

Head-hopping is when a writer suddenly changes the viewpoint character without purpose. A story will be narrated from one character’s point of view then that point of view shifts to another character mid-paragraph, or worst mid-sentence.

Head-hopping will leave readers feeling confused and frustrated. It’s a mistake that signals your in the hands of a careless writer. As such, head-hopping should be avoided at all costs.

How to avoid head hopping.

The obvious way to avoid this is to stay in one character’s point of view throughout a story.

If you need to shift perspective wait until a logical point like a scene or chapter break. Think of your character’s viewpoint as a camera lens. The action is being recorded by that single lens. You cannot describe anything that isn’t within the view of that single lens.

When shifting perspective, be sure to establish the change by mentioning the character’s name and something about the setting in your narration. Do this immediately to establish the shift in your reader’s mind.

Here’s an example of how to open a scene that has shifted perspective to a new character:

“Paul glanced at his watch and realized he’d been waiting in the coffee shop for over an hour.”

Who’s the POV character? Paul. Where is he? A coffee shop. What is he doing? Waiting.

Only shift the POV if it serves your narrative. And, establish any shift in POV at the opening of the scene or chapter.

Inconsistent POV

What is an inconsistent point of view?

What is an Inconsistent Point of View?

An inconsistent point of view means that the writer is switching point of view throughout the narrative. One scene may be told in the first person and the next scene’s narration switches to the third person omniscient. Like head-hopping, this will confuse your reader.

How to fix Inconsistent Point of View

Choose a point of view and stick to it. If your a first-time writer then the first person is the way to go. The first person point of view limits your opportunities to make mistakes like head-hopping.

Third person limited is the most widely used perspective and one that the modern reader is very comfortable with. Again, like the first person, you’re limited to a single character, and this will ensure a consistent POV.

Familiarize yourself with the rules of each of these POVs. Be mindful of what POV you’ve chosen. If your writing in the third person limited POV, don’t describe something that your POV character couldn’t possibly know.

These mistakes will probably occur in your early drafts and that’s okay. But, planning and outlining is key. As well as purposely choosing your POV. And, most importantly, find good editors! Preferably, fiction writers who are more experienced than you.

Also, don’t shift your point of view unless you have a very good narrative purpose behind the shift. I really can’t say that enough.

Choosing the wrong POV for your story

Choosing the wrong point of view for your story

Choosing the right point of view is vital in effective storytelling. Each POV has its pros and cons. Do you want to tell a story that is an intimate character study? Use the first person. Don’t use the third person omniscient. But, if your book is an epic fantasy that spans multiple worlds or realms, then the third person is the way to go.

POV is also how you tell your reader who is important. If a writer is narrating from a single character’s point of view then the reader will assume that character is important. Using the POV of a character who is not essential to the plot will confuse your reader.

The point is, spend a lot of time thinking about what point of view you’ll use and how it will affect your reader’s experience. This should be part of your pre-writing. POV is not a decision to be taken lightly.

Too many POVs

importance of point of view in creative writing

Using more than one POV character can help give your reader a broad view of your story. It can also be used as a way of slowly revealing important plot points.

I once read a story where the author effectively used POV shifts to explain the same event four times. Each time the new character would have a different perspective on the event, like a game of telephone. It was a clever use of shifting POV.

However, if you’re shifting the POV every chapter or scene for no apparent reason than your reader will get annoyed. POV should indicate an important character. And, shifts in POV should have a narrative purpose behind them.

Choose POV characters for a reason. The reader will feel loyal to a POV character, intuitively. The POV character should have something at stake in the story, or a goal. They should be someone like, oh I don’t know, a protagonist! Or, someone equally important. Who could that be? Hmmm. Maybe, an antagonist ! Don’t give the POV to any old, schlub, though.  

Bottom line- don’t waste time using the POV of a character who isn’t important to your narrative. And, make sure that any shifts in POV are done for a specific narrative purpose. An example would be retelling an event of the story from a new perspective that adds new information the reader didn’t already know.

So, that’s everything I can think of when it comes to POV. Still, have questions? Drop them in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer them. Or check out some of these other great resources on POV!

All About Point of View: Which One Should You Choose?

How to Choose Your Novel’s Point of View

importance of point of view in creative writing

Published by John

View all posts by John

6 comments on “Point of View: The Ultimate Guide”

Excellent post!

Thanks, KM!

  • Pingback: Exploring Nonlinear Narratives - The Art of Narrative
  • Pingback: A Complete Guide to The Hero's Journey (or The Monomyth) - The Art of Narrative
  • Pingback: First Person Point of View: What it is & How to use it - The Art of Narrative
  • Pingback: Elements of a Story - The Art of Narrative

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Copy and paste this code to display the image on your site

Discover more from The Art of Narrative

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

  • AI in action
  • AI in the enterprise
  • Humans of AI

Words at work

  • Inside Writer
  • Content strategy
  • Inspiration

– 6 min read

Point of view: a complete guide

Jessica Malnik

Jessica Malnik

importance of point of view in creative writing

Whether you’re writing a blog post, a novel, an academic report, or a simple email to a colleague, you have a decision to make. 

What point of view should you use? 

Each POV has its benefits, but you’ll need to have an understanding of how they work before you can decide which one is right for your story. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. 

Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about points of view, including what they are, why they’re important, and a breakdown of the three main types. We’ll also include examples of each type of point of view so you can see the differences.

1. What is point of view? 

Point of view (POV) applies when you’re talking or writing, but you’ll most likely see it referred to in fiction writing. The point of view you choose will greatly affect the storytelling process and narrative.

Point of view is essentially the perspective from which the story or narrative is being told. It answers the question of “who” is telling the story. Another way to look at it is the position from which someone or something like a scene or narrative, is being observed.

Point of view can be told from three different POVs: first-person, second-person, or third-person. We’ll dive into the specifics of these later in this post, but for now, just know there are three to choose from.

2. Why is POV important? 

As mentioned above, the point of view you pick determines how a story unfolds. What do you want your audience to know? Should they “hear” what’s going on inside the heads of the characters, or should they be viewing it from an outsider’s perspective? The point of view you choose determines this.

Point of view can be used as a tool to help express feelings and thoughts. You can use it to reveal someone’s motivations or experiences. Don’t think of it as a box to check in your list of story elements; rather, consider point of view a literary device that can help your story shine.

3. Types of POV 

There are three distinct points of view that you should be aware of. Each one has the potential to change the angle of your story. Here’s a bit on each POV so you can understand how they work and know when to use them in your writing.

First-person point of view

If you notice the narrator using first-person pronouns like I , me , mine , or myself , then you’re likely dealing with a story written in the first-person narrative. The first-person point of view helps the reader vicariously live out the story through the eyes of the narrator. When someone tells you a story verbally, they’ll often use this point of view to describe something they’ve witnessed themselves.

In this POV, you may have the protagonist as the main character. Meaning whoever I is — that’s who the story is about. When   the protagonist is written in first-person voice, the audience gets an insight into the main character’s mind or thoughts. Sometimes this point of view is achieved through the use of journals, diaries, or letters.

Note that the first-person point of view can be used without making the story entirely about the person speaking. For instance, the narrator may tell the story in the first person, but they aren’t the ones witnessing what’s happening. They may appear to have an omniscient presence in the story or book. The person speaking may also be a minor character or unreliable in their perspective. You should never assume the person speaking in first-person voice knows everything that’s going on.

Second-person point of view

If you notice the storyteller using the pronoun you, then you’re likely reading a second-person account. This isn’t commonly used in fiction, but it can be done. One benefit to using the second-person point of view is that you can pull the reader right into the action. You don’t necessarily have to set a stage.

Keep in mind that, of the three POVs, the second-person point of view can be the most challenging to use for storytelling or fiction. This is mainly because it can feel like a gimmick or repetitive with the use of the word you . However, some stories or formats lend well to the second-person point of view. For instance, if you were writing a how-to story or “choose your own adventure” book, it absolutely makes sense to employ the second-person point of view. 

Third-person point of view

If you notice the narrator utilizing pronouns like she , they , he , or it , then you’re probably reading a story written in third-person voice. This POV is often the most commonly used of the three. This is because it gives the writer more flexibility when they don’t have to write from a singular perspective. It essentially broadens the horizons of the story.

However, that’s not always the case. When writing in third-person limited, the point of view does have to be written from one character’s perspective. Often with this POV, that character is the protagonist.

On the other hand, writing in third-person multiple lets the narrator follow the perspectives of more than one character. This is where that flexibility piece plays in. The writer can switch between the different characters in the story. Even less restrictive is third-person omniscient, which allows the author to tell the story from anyone’s point of view.

4. Point of view examples

In this section, we’ll share examples of all three points of view, so you can learn to identify each.

First-person examples

Remember, first-person POV uses these pronouns:

I, my, our, we, me , us

Here are a few examples of what first person looks like:

Example 1: I went to my friend’s apartment after work. Example 2: My mom drove to the grocery store last week. Example 3: Our coworkers know we plan to meet them for lunch. Example 4: She took us to the concert in town. Example 5: I remember you told me that.

Second-person examples

Second-person POV relies on the following pronouns:

you, your, yours

Here are some examples of second-person POV in use:

Example 1: You brush the dirt off the seat. Example 2: She helped you tend to your garden. Example 3: The title was yours to claim. Example 4: You hear a slamming door in the distance. Example 5: You pick up your keys and start your car.

Third-person examples

You’ll see the following pronouns used for third-person POV:

she, they, he, it

Here are a couple examples of third-person POV:

Example 1: She picked up the broken bottle on the sidewalk. Example 2: They went to the mall in search of the perfect gift. Example 3: He goes to school in the evenings. Example 4: It picked up the pace and outran the rest of the pack. Example 5: The mug was sitting on her dresser where she left it this morning.

Let’s practice: One fun way to exercise your POV writing skills is to look at a common story and picture it from the three different points of view. Let’s take Cinderella, for example.

First person: I left my glass slipper at the ball last night.

Second person: You see her step out of her glass slipper and leave it at the ball.

Third person: She seemed flustered as she ran away from her glass slipper.

If you’re just getting started with storytelling or writing fiction, it helps to begin with first- or third-person voice. These offer more flexibility and are easier to work with. However, there’s no rule telling you which point of view you have to use. Consider what makes sense for your unique story. But most of all, have fun with it!

Looking for more ways to improve your writing? Start a free trial today.

--> “A wide screen just makes a bad film twice as bad.” -->

May Habib CEO, Writer.com

Here’s what else you should know about Ascending.

More resources

importance of point of view in creative writing

– 9 min read

35 Common idioms and their meanings

Masooma Memon

Masooma Memon

importance of point of view in creative writing

– 5 min read

Is it occurred or occured?

– 11 min read

“Big Sis Energy:” How Cleo built a Gen Z brand

Writer Team

The Writer Team

Monthly dispatches on the AI revolution. Delivered to your inbox.

importance of point of view in creative writing

Point of View

importance of point of view in creative writing

Point of View Definition

What is point of view? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Point of view refers to the perspective that the narrator holds in relation to the events of the story. The three primary points of view are  first person , in which the narrator tells a story from their own perspective ("I went to the store");  second person , in which the narrator tells a story about you, the reader or viewer ("You went to the store"); and third person , in which the narrator tells a story about other people ("He went to the store"). Each point of view creates a different experience for the reader, because, in each point of view, different types and amounts of information are available to the reader about the story's events and characters.

Some additional key details about point of view:

  • Each different point of view has its own specific qualities that influence the narrative. It's up to the author to choose which point of view is best for narrating the story he or she is writing.
  • Second person point of view is extremely rare in literature. The vast majority of stories are written in either the first or third person. 
  • You may hear "point of view" referred to simply as "perspective." This isn't wrong, it's just another way of referring to the same thing.

The Three "Modes" of Point of View

Stories can be told from one of three main points of view: first person, second person, or third person. Each of the different modes offers an author particular options and benefits, and the point of view that an author chooses will have a tremendous impact on the way that a reader engages with a story.  

First Person Point of View

In first person point of view, the narrator tells the story from his or her own perspective. You can easily recognize first person by its use of the pronouns "I" or "We." First person offers the author a great way to give the reader direct access to a particular character's thoughts, emotions, voice, and way of seeing the world—their  point of view  about the main events of the story. The choice of which  character gets to have first person point of view can dramatically change a story, as shown in this simple scenario of a thief snatching a lady's purse

  • Thief's POV: "I was desperate for something to eat. Judging by her expensive-looking shoes, I figured she could afford to part with her purse."
  • Victim's POV: "He came out of nowhere! Too bad for him, though: I only had five dollars in my bag."

Consider also one of the most famous examples of first person point of view, the very first line of Herman Melville's  Moby-Dick :

Call me Ishmael.

Melville uses first person here because he wants to establish a confessional tone for the protagonist. He wants the reader to feel like Ishmael has just sat down next to him on a bar stool, and is about to tell him his life's story. Only first person can have this colloquial and intimate effect. Saying, "His name was Ishmael," for instance, would insert more distance between the reader and the character Ishmael, because the third person narrator would sit between  the reader and Ishmael. First person, in this way, can have the effect of connecting the reader directly with the story.

First Person Point of View and the Protagonist

In a story told in the first person, the character who acts as narrator will often also be the protagonist of the story. However, some stories told from the first person do  not  make the narrator the protagonist:

  • First person in which the narrator is the protagonist: In The Catcher in the Rye , the first person narrator Holden Caulfield is the clear protagonist of the story. His voice dominates the story, and the story he tells is his own.
  • First person in which the narrator is  not  the protagonist:  The novel The Great Gatsby is narrated by Nick Carraway, but the protagonist of the novel is Jay Gatsby. Nick Carraway tells the story, and the reader is limited to understanding the story through what Nick himself sees, knows, and thinks, but nevertheless the story that Nick tells is not his own but rather Gatsby's.

Second Person Point of View

Second person point of view uses the pronoun "you" to immerse the reader in the experience of being the protagonist. It's important to remember that second person point of view is different from simply addressing the reader. Rather, the second person point of view places the reader "on the playing field" by putting them in the position of the protagonist—the one to whom the action occurs. Few stories are appropriate for such a perspective, but occasionally it is quite successful, as in Jay McInerney's  Bright Lights, Big City , a novel in which the reader is taken on a wild night through Manhattan.

Eventually you ascend the stairs to the street. You think of Plato's pilgrims climbing out of the cave, from the shadow world of appearances toward things as they really are, and you wonder if it is possible to change in this life. Being with a philosopher makes you think.

Of the three points of view, second person is the most rarely used, primarily because it doesn't allow the narrator as much freedom as first person and third person, so it's hard to sustain this style of narration for very long.

Third Person Point of View

In third person point of view, the narrator is someone (or some entity) who is  not  a character in the story being told. Third person point of view uses the pronouns "he," "she," and "they," to refer to all the characters. It is the most common point of view in writing, as it gives the writer a considerable amount of freedom to focus on different people, events, and places without being limited within the consciousness of a single character. Below is an example of dialogue written in third person by Joseph Heller in his novel  Catch-22 :

"What are you doing?" Yossarian asked guardedly when he entered the tent, although he saw at once. "There's a leak here," Orr said. "I'm trying to fix it." "Please stop it," said Yossarian. "You're making me nervous."

The exchange above is narrated by a narrator who is outside the interaction between Yossarian and Orr; such distance is the hallmark of third person point of view.

Third Person and Degree of Distance

The third person mode is unique from first and second person in another way as well: third person has different variants. These variants depend on how far removed the narrator is from the events of the story, and how much the narrator knows about each character:

  • Third Person Omniscient Point of View: "Third person omniscient" means that the narrator knows all the thoughts and feelings of every character and can dip in and out of the the internal life of anyone, as needed. Omniscient just means "all-knowing." This type of narrator is more god-like than human, in the sense that their perspective is un limited.
  • A story like Young Goodman Brown , which follows one character closely and reports on that character's thoughts and feelings (but not the thoughts and feelings of others), is an example of third person limited point of view. This type of story gives the reader the feeling that they are inside one person's head  without  using first person pronouns like "I."

Alternating Point of View

Many stories are told from alternating points of view—switching between different characters, or even between different modes of storytelling.

  • Stories can switch between third person points of view: Many novels switch between different third person points of view. For instance, the chapters of George R.R. Martin's The Song of Ice and Fire books are all named after characters, and each chapter is told from the limited third person point of view of the named character. 
  • Stories can switch between first person points of view: William Faulkner's novel As I Lay Dying is structurally similar to the Song of Ice and Fire books in the sense that each chapter is named after a character. However, each chapter is told in the first person by the named character. The Darl chapters are told in the first person by Darl, the Cash chapter are narrated by Cash, the Vardamon chapters by Vardamon, and so on. 
  • Stories can even switch between modes of storytelling:  Though less common than other sorts of alternating points of view, some stories can shift not only between different character's points of view, but between actual modes of storytelling. For example, Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury has four parts. The first three parts are all narrated in the first person, with the first part narrated by Benjy, the second part by Quentin, and the third part by Jason. But the fourth part is told in the third person omniscient and follows a bunch of different characters at different times.

Point of View Examples

Every work of literature has a point of view, and so there are essentially endless examples of point of view in literature. The examples below were chosen because they are good examples of the different modes, and in the case of The Metamorphosis the the subtle shift in the nature of the narrator's point of view also shows how an author can play with point of view to suit the themes and ideas of a story.  

Third Person Point of View in Kafka's  Metamorphosis

A great example of third person point of view in literature is the first line from Kafka's  The Metamorphosis . 

As Gregor Samsa awoke one morning from uneasy dreams he found himself transformed in his bed into a gigantic insect.

For the remainder of the book, Kafka follows the protagonist, Gregor Samsa, in a limited third person point of view as he struggles to come to terms with his sudden transformation into an insect. For as long as Gregor remains alive, the third person narrator remains limited by Gregor's own consciousness—the story is told in the third person, but the narrator never knows or sees any more than Gregor himself does. 

However, in the few pages of the story that continue after Gregor dies, the narrator shifts into a third person omniscient point of view , almost as if Gregor's death has freed the narrator in a way not so dissimilar to how his death tragically relieves a burden on his family. 

Point of View in Tolstoy's  Anna Karenina

Leo Tolstoy's  Anna Karenina   is a great example of the omniscient third person point of view. In the novel, the narrator sees and knows all, and moves around between the lives of the different characters, dipping into their internal lives and thoughts, and commenting on the narrative as a whole. In Part 5, Chapter 6, the internal lives of two characters are commented on at once, in the moment of their marriage to one another:

Often and much as they had both heard about the belief that whoever is first to step on the rug will be the head in the family, neither Levin nor Kitty could recall it as they made those few steps. Nor did they hear the loud remarks and disputes that, in the observation of some, he had been the first, or, in the opinion of others, they had stepped on it together.

Point of View in Thoreau's  Walden

Henry David Thoreau's transcendental meditations on isolation were based on his actual lived experience. It makes sense, then, that  Walden  (his account of time spent alone in the woods) is written in the first person point of view :

When I wrote the following pages, or rather the bulk of them, I lived alone, in the woods, a mile away from any neighbor, in a house which I had built myself, on the shore of Walden Pond, in Concord, Massachusetts, and earned my living by the labor of my hands only. I lived there two years and two months. At present I am a sojourner in civilized life again.

What's the Function of Point of View in Literature?

Point of view is the means by which an author relays either one or a multiplicity of perspectives about the events of their story. It is the lens crafted by the writer that allows the reader to see a story or argument unfold. Depending on how much information the writer wants to give the reader, this lens will be constructed differently—or in other words, a different mode of point of view will be chosen:

  • If the writer wants the reader to have full access to a particular character's internal life, then they might choose either first person or a closely limited third person point of view.
  • If the writer wants the reader to know select bits and pieces about every character, they might choose an omniscient third person point of view.
  • If the writer wants the reader to know about the rich internal lives of multiple characters, they might choose an alternating first person point of view.
  • Lastly, if the writer wants the reader to feel like they themselves are in the center of the action, they might choose a second person point of view.

Other Helpful Point of View Resources

  • The Wikipedia Page on Point of View:  An overview of narration with a focus on literary point of view.
  • The Dictionary Definition of Point of View:   A very basic definition of the term point of view.
  • Examples of Second Person:  A page with some examples of writing in the less common second person point of view.

The printed PDF version of the LitCharts literary term guide on Point of View

  • PDFs for all 136 Lit Terms we cover
  • Downloads of 1867 LitCharts Lit Guides
  • Teacher Editions for every Lit Guide
  • Explanations and citation info for 39,238 quotes across 1867 books
  • Downloadable (PDF) line-by-line translations of every Shakespeare play
  • Protagonist
  • Internal Rhyme
  • Antimetabole
  • Extended Metaphor
  • Climax (Figure of Speech)
  • Rhyme Scheme
  • Connotation
  • Stream of Consciousness
  • External Conflict
  • Antanaclasis

The LitCharts.com logo.

Point of View

In creative nonfiction, especially in personal narratives, we can easily begin to feel imprisoned by the bars of “I, I, I” that tend to pepper our prose.

Obi-Wan: So what I told you was TRUE…from a certain point of view.

Luke: A certain point of view?

Obi-Wan: Luke, you’re going to find that many of the truths we cling to… depend greatly on our own points of view.

—“Star Wars: Episode VI—Return of the Jedi”

I think that I have discovered a possible form for these notes. That is, to make them include the present—at least enough of the present to serve as a platform to stand upon. It would be interesting to make the two people—I now, I then—come out in contrast. And further, this past is much affected by the present moment. What I write today I should not write in a year’s time.

—Virginia Woolf, “A Sketch of the Past”

In creative nonfiction, especially in personal narratives, we can easily begin to feel imprisoned by the bars of “I, I, I” that tend to pepper our prose. Our points of view can feel limited, isolated or small. But if, as Virginia Woolf suggests, we perch on a platform for viewing the past, why not invite a multiplicity of spectators to join us on the veranda? The variables of point of view in creative nonfiction can be just as numerous and just as effective as those used in fiction and poetry, perhaps even more so since the point (or points) of view in which we choose to tell our stories could, in fact, be the point of the story as well. As the wise Obi-Wan so succinctly tells us, truth is not a fixed adage but a concept that shifts under our gaze, multifaceted, determined by whatever self or persona happens to be in charge at the moment.

In fact, when we think of the term point of view in all its implications, we can see that it’s really an essential aspect of creative nonfiction’s groundwork. “Try to see it from MY point of view,” we often say in heated conversation or, “It’s MY point of view,” when we’re trying to put forth an argument or an opinion. But these phrases often make it seem as though a point of view is a fixed thing, immutable, easily ascertained. The joy of writing and reading creative nonfiction can be precisely that we come to have a multidimensional apprehension of the “truth” of experience. Sometimes this approach means that we will employ literal point-of-view digressions, such as second or third person, but we might consider variables of the I-narrator as different points of view as well.

Often we assume that if we speak in an I-voice, it is always the same “I.” But this “I” is shaped by time, by experience and by mood. There’s the “I” with a sense of humor about the whole thing, the “I” who is still puzzled, the “I” who has wisdom to impart, the “I” who has an ax to grind. There is also what we might call the “Lyric I”: the “I” who is silent; the “I” who speaks through fragmentation, through pure observation, through white space—the “I” who disappears into the gaps, eclipsed by language and metaphor.

We can also think of point of view as donning a pair of binoculars: How far can we see across time and space? Tense and time are just as much a part of point of view as the use of first, second or third person. When we speak from a child’s point of view in the present tense, it is obviously not the child writing the prose, but we imagine ourselves into her point of view for a while, and the present tense lends itself to the immediacy of such childlike encounters. And when we look back on that child from the adult point of view, we are pretending to be a wiser adult, but it’s still a mere persona, or point of view, we’re assuming and trying to make credible. When we imagine a time before we were born—imagining the points of view of our parents or grandparents, say—we are assuming a high-powered pair of binoculars. Here we are stretching the boundaries of creative nonfiction but still staying in that realm since we give clues that this is not a literal truth but an imaginative one. We are exercising our facilities of empathy.

Bernard Cooper, author of “Truth Serum,” often uses the future tense, looking ahead into the future beyond the moment he’s describing, using key phrases such as “I don’t yet know that…” or “I can’t know it at the time, but. …” These kinds of phrases automatically elicit a complex sense of point of view: The narrator is consciously positioned in a place where he knows both the past and the future; therefore, the point of view is not necessarily the author’s but that of a persona he has created to afford the best view of both.

So these issues of point of view really point to one of the most fundamental skills in creative nonfiction: writing not as the “author” but from a constructed persona, even if that persona is taking on the “I” to tell the story. That persona is formed by time, mood and distance from the events that are being narrated. And if we decide to literally foreground the artifice of this construction by using more stylized points of view, such as second and third person, we create even more of a relationship between the narrator and the narrated, a high awareness that we are engaged in the reconstruction of experience and not pretending to be mere transcribers of that experience.

Some Variables You (or I/One/We/She/He/They) Might Consider When Thinking About Point of View in Creative Nonfiction

The “I” point of view (First person, singular and/or plural: How far can “I” see?)

• First person, present, childlike

• First person, present, adult

• First person, past, looking back (into the distance or just to yesterday)

• First person, future (looking ahead)

• First person, moody: variables of the “I” that determine voice— funny, rueful, nostalgic, earnest, sad, etc.

• The Lyric I: speaking through silence, through poetic devices or through other forms/voices (For example: use of the fragmented braided essay form or the collage essay, where white space implies silence, and meaning is created through oblique connections of images and metaphors rather than through a straightforward narrative story)

• The “I” who is “We” or “One” (From Virginia Woolf’s “Street Haunting”: “No one perhaps has ever felt passionately toward a lead pencil. But there are circumstances in which it can become supremely desirable to possess one; moments when we are set upon having an object, an excuse for walking half across London between tea and dinner. … The hour should be the evening and the season winter. …”)

The “You” point of view

(Second person, singular and/or plural)

• The commanding “You” (as in “how to” pieces): the “You” that is kind of the “I” but could also be “You.” (From Brenda Miller’s “How to Meditate”: “On arrival, huddle in the Volkswagen with your friends and eat all the chocolate in the car. Chocolate chips, old KitKats, the tag end of a Hershey’s bar—do not discriminate.”)

• The “You” who is definitely the “I”: talking to yourself, about yourself, by way of talking to the reader. (From Nick Flynn’s “Another Bullshit Night in Suck City”: “If you had been raised in a village 200 years ago, somewhere in Eastern Europe, say, or even on the coast of Massachusetts, and your father was a drunk, or a little off, or both, then everyone in the village, those you grew up with and those who knew you only from a distance, they would all know that the town drunk or the village idiot was your father. …They would look into your eyes to see if they were his eyes, they would notice if you were to stumble slightly as you stepped into a shop, they would remember that your father, too, had started with promise, like you.”)

• The “You”who is definitely “You”: direct address to another character (implies an “I” is speaking). (From Abigail Thomas’s “Safekeeping”: “Before I met you I played my music on a child’s Victrola. …I am remembering this time just before I knew you, and then I knew you, and then you died. It makes the parentheses within which I lived most of my life. Not knowing you, knowing you, and then you died.”)

• The “You” who is all of us: “You do this. You do that. …”

The “She/He/They” point of view

(Third person, omniscient or another character’s perspective altogether)

• The “She” that is “I”: speaking of the self in the third person (From Abigail Thomas’ “Safekeeping”: “A middle-aged teacher is walking down Broadway in her big white sneakers and her yellow socks, her too long skirt (stained where three drops of hair-tinting stuff fell on it); she is wearing her daughter’s jacket, a new red velvet scarf and her two haircuts, both bad, and she is thinking about desire. …”)

• The “She” that is “She” told by an “I”: describing events you can’t really know about, but maintaining a subtle “I” (from Paisley Rekdal’s “The Night My Mother Met Bruce Lee”: “Age 16, my mother loads up red tubs of noodles, teacups chipped and white-gray as teeth, rice clumps that glue themselves to the plastic tub sides or dissolve and turn papery in the weak tea sloshing around the bottom.”)

• The “He” that is really “He”: inhabiting someone else’s point of view entirely (from Nick Flynn’s “Another Bullshit Night in Suck City”: “My father lifts the receiver in the night, speaks into it, asks Where’s the money? asks Why can’t I sleep? asks Who left me outside? The phone rings on a desk when he lifts it, the desk somewhere in Texas, someone is always supposed to be at that desk but no one ever is, not at night. A machine speaks while my father tries to speak, it doesn’t listen, it only speaks, my father’s face reflected dimly on the screen.”)

All of these variables are artistic constructions, but if a particular technique is used too self-consciously, it may feel shallow, like a gimmick. There must be some deeper reason to shift point of view, and ideally the right point of view will find its way to the writer, not the other way around. For instance, if we need physical distance from the self in order to speak about the self truthfully, then the third-person point of view will enhance that distance and help bolster the meaning of the essay. If we feel we are writing a universal experience, not just a private one, the second-person point of view may come in handy. Point of view is innately tied to voice, and a strong, well-executed point of view will also lead to a strong voice, one that will be clearly heard above the mayhem of the world.

Point of view in writing

A Writer’s Guide to Point of View

Budding writers often ask me:

“How do I master Point of View?”

The inability to grasp this concept is the most common problem I see in aspiring novelists.

Veteran editor Dave Lambert says, “No decision you make will impact the shape and texture of your story more than your choice of Point of View.”

So let’s straighten it out, shall we?

After you read this post, you’ll know the crucial POV rules and techniques professional writers use (and publishers look for)—and how to apply them to your story .

  • What is Point of View?

Things to understand about Point of View before we break it down:

1. Point of View is really two things:

A. The Voice with which you tell your story.

Not to be confused with the tone or sound of your writing (think of that Voice as your writing attitude), this is your choice to tell it in First Person (I), Second Person (you), or Third Person (he, she, or it).

B. Your Perspective Character.

Basically, that answers “Whose story is this?”

2. The cardinal rule of Point of View:

Limit yourself to one Perspective Character per scene, preferably per chapter, ideally per book .

That means no switching POV characters within the same scene, let alone within the same paragraph or sentence.

(Yes, that’s a common amateur mistake, and it results in head-hopping—a giant Point of View no-no I cover in more detail below.)

Point of View is worth stressing over, it’s that important .

Even pros have to remind themselves to avoid sliding into an Omniscient viewpoint.

I avoid that by imagining my Point of View or Perspective Character as my camera—I’m limited to writing only what my character “camera” sees, hears, and knows.

In essence, I’m limited to his or her perspective.

  • Breaking Down the Point of View Voices

Point of view voices

While POV is limited to one perspective character at a time, each of the three primary voices may be written in the present or past tense.

First Person Point of View

In this POV, the perspective character tells the story.

First Person is the second most common voice in fiction, but I recommend it for many beginning novelists, because it forces you to limit your viewpoint to one Perspective Character—which you should do with all POVs except Omniscient.

My first 13 novels (The Margo Mysteries) were written in first-person past tense.

First Person Examples

The most common use of first-person is past tense.

Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick begins in present tense but immediately switches to past:

Call me Ishmael. Some years ago, never mind how long precisely, having little or no money in my purse and nothing particular to interest me on shore, I thought I would sail about a little and see the watery part of the world.

While I recommend first-person, I think you’d find present tense awkward and difficult to sustain.

On the other hand, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is rendered that way and has become one of the most successful novel series ever.

If you have colossal writing talent and an idea as cosmic as hers, feel free to ignore my counsel and go for it. Here’s how hers begins:

When I wake up, the other side of the bed is cold. My fingers stretch out, seeking Prim’s warmth but finding only the rough canvas cover of the mattress. She must have had bad dreams and climbed in with our mother. Of course, she did. This is the day of reaping.

Second Person Point of View

This point of view uses “you, your” construction, and the narrator makes  “you,” the reader, become the protagonist.

Though rare in fiction and far more popular in nonfiction, it’s been said that because it plunges the reader into the action of the story, second person can bring a sense of immediacy to a novel.

I wouldn’t dare attempt it and don’t recommend it.

Second Person Examples

Jay McInerney used second-person present tense in Bright Lights, Big City this way:

You are not the kind of guy who would be at a place like this at this time of the morning. But here you are, and you cannot say that the terrain is entirely unfamiliar, although the details are fuzzy. You are at a nightclub talking to a girl with a shaved head.

You can see how this method forces the reader, in essence, to become a character and how difficult that might be for the writer to sustain for 300 or 400 pages.

Third Person Point of View

Finally, we’ve come to the most commonly used point of view in storytelling — third-person.

Third Person Limited

When written in third-person limited, the story is about he or she/him or her , or the character is mentioned by name.

As with all other POVs besides Omniscient, the writer is limited to one perspective character—your camera.

Everything you write must be seen through that camera: your perspective character’s eyes, ears, and mind.

Third Person Omniscient

Here the story is still about he or she , but the narrator writes from the all-knowing, all-seeing perspective and is not even limited by time.

Because so many of us were raised on the classics with their Omniscient author/narrator, it seems ingrained in us to want to know and tell all about every character onstage and off.

We even want to tell unseen things and things yet unseen. Such miraculous foretellings were often worded like: “Little did our hero know that 20 miles away, what would happen to him the next day was already being planned.”

Writing from that perspective might sound like an advantage, but fiction from an Omniscient viewpoint rarely succeeds in the traditional or indie markets today.

In nonfiction, the Omniscient narrator is common and makes sense, because you’re an expert trying to teach or persuade, and so you adopt a posture of knowing everything and telling everything.

Third Person Examples

Because many readers find third-person present tense weird, you won’t find it in many novels.

It would sound something like this:

Fritz skips out to the garage, fishing in his pocket for his keys. He slips behind the wheel and starts the car.

You can imagine how distracting that would be to the reader if maintained throughout.

By far, the most common choice for modern fiction is third-person past tense.

My perspective character at the start of Left Behind is an airline pilot.

I write it in third-person limited, past tense:

Rayford Steele’s mind was on a woman he had never touched. With his fully loaded 747 on autopilot above the Atlantic en route to a 6 a.m. landing at Heathrow, Rayford had pushed from his mind thoughts of his family.

As I mentioned above, the cardinal rule of POV is to limit yourself to one perspective character per scene, preferably per chapter, ideally per book.

If you’re J.K. Rowling, however, whose bestselling Harry Potter series gloriously breaks this rule, you have my wholehearted permission to ignore this advice.

Head-hopping is the problem .

Here’s an example of what it would have looked like, had I forgotten to limit myself to a single camera (Rayford) as the Perspective Character in Left Behind :

Rayford Steele’s mind was on a woman he had never touched. Meanwhile, his co-pilot was wondering what Rayford was thinking as he gazed out the cockpit window.

See how I slipped out of Rayford’s perspective and into the copilot’s from one sentence to the next?

That’s head hopping—hopping in and out of various characters’ heads.

That takes me from Third Person Limited to Omniscient. And Omniscient narrators are decades out of fashion.

  • The Secret to Using Multiple Points of View in the Same Story

Multiple main characters in a story

In the Left Behind novel series (Tyndale House Publishers), I alternated between as many as five perspective characters per book , but never within the same scene. And I made it crystal clear every time I switched.

I would add an extra space between paragraphs, insert what’s called a typographical dingbat—like this: ###—and fully introduce the new POV character:

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Buck Williams sat hunched over his laptop…

In my novel The Valley of the Dry Bones (Worthy Publishing), I employ a single Perspective Character for the entire book.

  • Employing The Most Popular Point of View

If you’re a beginning writer , you might assume you must write in the first person, your Perspective Character referring to himself or herself as I .

But third-person limited is the most common choice for contemporary fiction.

Following is an example of how to effectively employ that voice.

A writer asked how he could better describe his character to portray her legalism and self-righteousness.

You can see how this would be easy if written in first person from her standpoint.

But how do we do it in third person limited?

His original:

Mother Clotilde sat at an ornate desk absentmindedly fingering a string of beads encircling her waist as she leafed through a thick leather-bound Bible. She looked like something unearthed at a dig.

Did you catch the POV violation?

Mother Clotilde is the perspective character, but because she’s alone, we can’t really say she “looked like something unearthed at a dig.”

Another character could say that or think that, if we were in that character’s POV. Needless to say, Mother Clotilde would not describe herself that way.

  • Which POV Will You Choose?

Choose wisely, because the decision could make the difference between your manuscript landing a contract or being rejected.

Our job as novelists is to pull our readers so deeply into our story that they even forget they’re turning the pages.

Your Point of View choices can make that happen.

Amateur writing mistake

Are You Making This #1 Amateur Writing Mistake?

White blooming flower

Faith-Based Words and Phrases

importance of point of view in creative writing

What You and I Can Learn From Patricia Raybon

How to Write a Novel PDF Cover

Wait! Before you go...

Here's a FREE copy of my 12-step guide to writing a novel.

Just tell me where to send it:

importance of point of view in creative writing

Enter your email to instantly access my ultimate self-editing checklist.

Brilliantio

Creative Writing: What It Is and Why It Matters

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on Published: January 13, 2023  - Last updated: January 15, 2023

Categories Writing

Writing can be intimidating for many people, but creative writing doesn’t have to be. Creative writing is a form of self-expression that allows writers to create stories, characters, and unique settings. But what exactly is creative writing? And why is it important in today’s society? Let’s explore this further.

How We Define Creative Writing

Creative writing is any form where writers can express their thoughts and feelings imaginatively. This type of writing allows authors to draw on their imagination when creating stories and characters and play with language and structure. While there are no boundaries in creative writing, most pieces will contain dialogue, description, and narrative elements.

The Importance of Creative Writing

Creative writing is important because:

  • It helps us express ourselves in ways we may not be able to do with other forms of communication.
  • It allows us to explore our creativity and think outside the box.
  • It can help us better understand our emotions by exploring them through storytelling or poetry.
  • Writing creatively can also provide much-needed escapism from everyday life, allowing us to escape into a world of our creation.
  • Creative writing helps us connect with others by sharing our experiences through stories or poems they can relate to. This way, we can gain insight into other people’s lives while giving them insight into ours.

Creative Writing: A Path to Mental and Emotional Wellness

Writing is more than just a way to express your thoughts on paper. It’s a powerful tool that can be used as a form of therapy. Creative writing has been shown to improve emotional and mental well-being.

Through creative writing, we can gain insight into our emotions, develop self-expression and communication skills, cultivate empathy and understanding of others, and boost our imagination and creativity.

Let’s examine how creative writing can relieve stress and emotional catharsis.

Stress Relief and Emotional Catharsis

Writing has the power to reduce stress levels significantly. Writing about our experiences or about things that are causing us anxiety or distress helps us to release those complicated feelings constructively. By expressing ourselves through creative writing, we can work through the emotions associated with stressful situations without having to confront them directly.

This is especially helpful for people who struggle to share their emotions verbally or in person.

Improved Communication and Self-Expression

Creative writing is also beneficial for improving communication skills. Through creative writing, we can explore our thoughts and feelings more intensely than by speaking them aloud. This allows us to think more clearly about what we want to say before actually saying it out loud or in written form, which leads to improved self-expression overall.

Additionally, writing out our thoughts before speaking aloud allows us to articulate ourselves better when communicating with others—which is essential for healthy personal and professional relationships.

Increased Empathy and Understanding of Others

Through creative writing, we can also increase our empathy towards others by exploring different perspectives on various topics that may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable for us—such as racism, homophobia, sexism, etc.—and allowing ourselves the opportunity to see the situation from someone else’s point of view without judgment or bias. This helps us become better communicators and more understanding individuals overall.

The Professional Benefits of Creative Writing

Creative writing is a powerful tool that can help you communicate better and more effectively in the professional world. It can also help you develop various skills that prove invaluable in many industries. Whether you’re looking to build your résumé or improve your communication, creative writing can effectively achieve both.

Let’s take a closer look at how creative writing can benefit your career.

Preparing Students for Careers in Writing, Editing, and Publishing

Creative writing is the perfect foundation for anyone interested in pursuing a career in writing, editing, or publishing. It teaches students the basics of grammar and composition while allowing them to express their ideas in imaginative ways.

Creative writing classes also allow students to learn from professionals who have experience as editors, agents, and publishers. They can use this knowledge to learn creative writing, refine their craft and gain valuable experience before entering the job market.

Improving Skills in Storytelling and Marketing for Various Careers

Creative writing teaches students to think critically about stories and craft compelling narratives that draw readers in. This skill is precious for those who wish to pursue careers outside traditional writing roles—such as marketing or advertising—where storytelling is key.

People who understand the fundamentals of creative writing will be able to create persuasive copy that resonates with readers and effectively conveys a message.

Enhancing Team Collaboration and Leadership Skills

Creative writing isn’t just about expressing yourself through words; it also provides an opportunity to practice working collaboratively with others on projects. Many creative writing classes require students to work together on group projects, which helps them develop essential teamwork skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

As they work together on these projects, they will also gain confidence in their ability to lead teams effectively—an invaluable asset no matter what industry they pursue after graduation.

Uncovering the Power of Creative Writing

Creative writing has become an increasingly powerful force in shaping our society. Creative writing has many uses, from preserving cultural heritage to promoting social change.

Preserving Cultural Heritage with Creative Writing

Creative writing has long been used to preserve and share cultural heritage stories. This is done through fictional stories or poetry that explore a particular culture or group’s history, values, and beliefs. By weaving these stories in an engaging way, writers can bring a culture’s history and traditions to life for readers worldwide. This helps bridge cultural gaps by providing insight into what makes each culture unique.

Promoting Social Change & Activism with Creative Writing

Creative writing can also be used for activism and social change. Writers can craft stories that help promote awareness about important issues such as poverty, race relations, gender equality, climate change, and more.

With the power of words, writers can inspire readers to take action on these issues and work towards creating positive change in their communities.

Through creative writing, writers can raise awareness about important topics while fostering empathy toward individuals who may be facing difficult or challenging situations.

Fostering Creativity & Innovation with Creative Writing

Finally, creative writing can foster creativity and innovation in various fields. For example, businesses can use creative copywriting techniques to create compelling content that captures the attention of customers or potential investors.

Aspiring entrepreneurs can use storytelling techniques when pitching their ideas or products to potential partners or investors to make their cases more persuasive and memorable.

By harnessing the power of words through creative writing techniques, businesses can create content that resonates with their target audience while inspiring them to take action on whatever message they’re trying to convey. It often aids the overall creative process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of creative writing.

Creative writing has many benefits, both for the writer and the reader. For the writer, it can be therapeutic, helping them to explore their emotions and better understand themselves. It can also be used as entertainment or communication, allowing them to share their ideas with the world. For the reader, creative writing can provide enjoyment, escapism, and insights into the human condition.

How can I improve my creative writing skills?

There are several ways you can improve your creative writing skills. Firstly, make sure you allow yourself time to write regularly. Use a writing prompt to inspire a short story. Secondly, read as much as you can; great writers are also great readers. Thirdly, experiment with different styles and genres to find one that suits you best. Fourthly, join a writers’ group, writing workshop, or creative writing program to get feedback from other writers. Finally, keep a journal to track your progress and reflect on your work as a creative writer.

What is the importance of imagery in creative writing?

Imagery is an important element of creative writing, as it helps to create a more vivid picture for the reader. By using sensory and descriptive language, writers can transport readers into their stories and help them relate to their characters or themes. Imagery can bring a scene alive with detail and evoke emotion by helping readers create strong visual images in their minds. Furthermore, imagery can help make stories more memorable by giving readers a deeper connection with the characters or setting.

What are the elements of creative writing?

The elements of creative writing include plot, character, dialogue, setting, theme, and point of view. The plot is the structure or main storyline, while the character is the personage involved in this story. Dialogue includes conversations between characters to give insight into their emotions and relationships. Setting refers to the place or time in which a story takes place, while theme explores deeper meanings behind a story’s narrative. Finally, point of view defines how readers experience a story through first-person or third-person omniscient narration.

What’s the difference between creative writing and other types of writing?

The main difference between creative writing and other types of writing is that it allows the writer to create their own story, characters, settings, and themes. Creative writing also encourages writers to be inventive with their style and use descriptive language to evoke emotion or bring stories alive in readers’ minds. Other academic or technical writing types typically involve more research-based information and are usually more objective in their presentation. Additionally, most forms of non-creative writing will have stricter rules regarding grammar, structure, and syntax.

What is the golden rule of creative writing?

The golden rule of creative writing is to show, not tell. It’s the core creative writing skill. When it comes to creative writing, it’s essential to use descriptive language that immerses readers in the story and allows them to experience the events through their emotions and imaginations. This can be done through metaphors, similes, sensory language, and vivid imagery.

How important is creativity in writing?

Creativity is essential in writing as it allows writers to craft a unique story and evoke emotion from the reader. Creativity can bring stories alive with fresh perspectives and exciting plot lines while creating an escape for readers and giving them more profound insights into the human condition. Writers who combine creativity with technical aspects such as grammar, structure, language usage, and flow will create pieces that capture their audience’s attention and provide an enjoyable reading experience.

point of view

Mastering Point Of View In Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

Gary Smailes

Table of Contents

Introduction

What is point of view, first person, second person, third person, multiple perspectives, stream of consciousness, considerations for choosing, examples of effective point of view, establishing point of view, maintaining point of view, switching point of view, point of view and narrative distance, point of view and character development, point of view in different genres, common mistakes to avoid, frequently asked questions, further reading.

Point of view is a crucial element of storytelling that can greatly affect how readers experience and interpret a story. In literature, point of view refers to the perspective from which a story is narrated or presented to the reader. It encompasses a wide range of factors, including the narrator's identity, their relationship to the characters and events of the story, and the degree of knowledge and insight they possess.

Point of view can have a profound impact on the overall tone, mood, and theme of a story, as well as on the reader's emotional engagement and understanding of the characters and plot. It can influence the level of intimacy and distance between the reader and the story, and shape the reader's perceptions of the characters' motivations, thoughts, and feelings.

Point of view is therefore an essential tool for writers to master if they want to create compelling and effective stories that resonate with readers. Whether writing in first-person, second-person, or third-person, or using multiple perspectives, writers must carefully consider the implications of their point of view choices and use them to their advantage.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different types of point of view, their strengths and weaknesses, and how to choose the right one for your story. We will also discuss strategies for establishing and maintaining point of view, avoiding common pitfalls, and using point of view to develop characters and narrative distance. By the end of this guide, you will have a solid understanding of point of view and how to use it to enhance your writing.

Point of view refers to the perspective from which a story is narrated or presented to the reader. It encompasses a wide range of factors, including the narrator's identity, their relationship to the characters and events of the story, and the degree of knowledge and insight they possess. Essentially, point of view determines who is telling the story, and how the reader experiences and interprets it.

Point of view plays a crucial role in shaping a story, as it can affect the reader's emotional engagement, understanding of the characters and plot, and interpretation of the theme and message. For example, a story told from a first-person point of view can create a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as the reader experiences the events of the story through the eyes and thoughts of the narrator. In contrast, a story told from a third-person point of view can create a sense of distance and objectivity, allowing the reader to observe the characters and events from a more detached perspective.

Point of view can also influence the degree of ambiguity or clarity in a story, depending on how much the narrator knows or reveals to the reader. A first-person narrator, for instance, may be an unreliable or biased source of information, while a third-person omniscient narrator may have access to all the characters' thoughts and feelings, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the story.

Overall, point of view is a fundamental element of storytelling that writers must carefully consider and manipulate to achieve their desired effect. By choosing the right point of view for their story, writers can create memorable, engaging, and impactful narratives that resonate with readers.

Types of Point of View

Point of view in literature refers to the perspective from which a story is narrated or presented to the reader. There are several types of point of view commonly used in literature, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The choice of point of view can greatly affect the reader's emotional engagement, understanding of the characters and plot, and interpretation of the theme and message.

First-person point of view is a popular and widely-used narrative technique in literature. It is characterized by the use of the pronouns "I," "me," and "my" to refer to the narrator, who is also a character in the story. The first-person narrator is typically the protagonist or a witness to the events of the story, and the story is told from their perspective. This point of view creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as the reader experiences the events of the story through the eyes and thoughts of the narrator.

One of the main advantages of first-person point of view is that it allows the writer to create a strong and distinctive narrative voice. The reader can get a clear sense of the narrator's personality, worldview, and emotions, which can make the story more engaging and memorable. First-person point of view also allows writers to explore the inner thoughts and feelings of the narrator in depth, providing insight into their motivations and decisions.

However, first-person point of view can also be limiting. The narrator's perspective may be biased or unreliable, and the reader may only have access to their version of events. The narrator's personality can also overshadow the other characters in the story, making them less fully-developed. In addition, the first-person point of view may not be suitable for certain types of stories, such as those that require a broader perspective or a more objective view of events.

First-person point of view is often used in memoirs, autobiographical works, and personal essays, as well as in fiction. It is particularly effective in stories that involve introspection, self-discovery, or a deep exploration of the human psyche. First-person point of view is also commonly used in genres such as mystery, thriller, and horror, where the narrator's perception of events can create suspense and tension for the reader.

Examples of first-person point of view in literature include The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, which is narrated by the teenage protagonist Holden Caulfield; The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, which is narrated by the outsider Nick Carraway; and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, which is narrated by the young Scout Finch.

If you're interested in learning more about first-person point of view, this detailed article is a good resource.

Second-person point of view is characterized by the use of the pronoun "you" to refer to the reader or an imaginary character. This point of view is rare in literature, as it can be difficult to sustain for an entire story. However, it can be effective in certain types of writing, such as interactive fiction or instructional manuals.

Using second-person point of view in literature can create a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as the reader feels like they are a part of the story. This can help the reader to become more emotionally engaged with the characters and events of the story. It can also create a sense of tension or unease, as the reader is forced to confront their own thoughts and actions in the narrative.

One of the challenges of using second-person point of view is avoiding the feeling of being lectured or instructed. Writers must carefully balance the use of "you" with descriptive language and character development to create a compelling and engaging story.

It is important to note that second-person point of view is not commonly used in traditional literature, as it can be difficult to sustain over a long narrative. However, it is frequently used in other forms of media, such as video games, where the player or user takes on the role of the protagonist.

For example, the game Bioshock uses second-person point of view to immerse the player in the narrative and create a sense of agency and responsibility. The player takes on the role of a character named Jack, and the game is presented as a series of instructions and prompts addressed directly to the player. This creates a sense of immersion and urgency, as the player feels like they are a part of the story and have a personal stake in the outcome.

Examples of second-person point of view in literature include Bright Lights, Big City by Jay McInerney and If on a winter's night a traveler by Italo Calvino. In Bright Lights, Big City , the narrator addresses the reader directly as "you," creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The reader feels like they are a part of the narrator's world, and the use of second-person point of view helps to reinforce this connection.

In If on a winter's night a traveler , Calvino uses second-person point of view to create a sense of disorientation and playfulness. The reader is addressed as "you" throughout the book, but the identity of the narrator and protagonist is constantly shifting and uncertain. This creates a sense of ambiguity and unpredictability, as the reader is never quite sure who they are supposed to be or what role they are supposed to play in the narrative.

For more information about second-person point of view, see Second-person narrative on Wikipedia.

Third-person point of view is characterized by the use of third-person pronouns, such as "he," "she," or "they," to refer to the characters in a story. This point of view is the most common in literature, as it allows for a greater degree of objectivity and distance between the reader and the characters.

There are several different types of third-person point of view, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:

  • Third-person limited: This type of point of view is characterized by a narrative voice that is limited to the thoughts and feelings of a single character. The reader is only given access to the thoughts and feelings of this character, which creates a sense of intimacy and immersion. However, this can also limit the reader's understanding of other characters and events in the story. Examples of third-person limited point of view include Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner, and Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. For more information about third-person limited point of view, see Third-person narrative - Third-person limited on Wikipedia.
  • Third-person omniscient: This type of point of view is characterized by a narrative voice that has access to the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. The reader is given a broader understanding of the story and the characters' motivations, but this can also create a sense of detachment and objectivity. Examples of third-person omniscient point of view include War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, and Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy. For more information about third-person omniscient point of view, see Third-person narrative - Third-person omniscient on Wikipedia.
  • Third-person objective: This type of point of view is characterized by a narrative voice that is entirely objective and impartial. The reader is not given access to any character's thoughts or feelings, and must interpret the story based solely on the characters' actions and dialogue. Examples of third-person objective point of view include The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway, The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, and The Postman Always Rings Twice by James M. Cain. For more information about third-person objective point of view, see Third-person narrative - Third-person objective on Wikipedia.

Each type of third-person point of view has its strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one depends on the specific needs and goals of the story. Some writers may experiment with multiple points of view within the same story, using different narrators or perspectives to create a more complex and nuanced narrative.

Check out this extensive article for a detailed examination of third person point of view .

For more information about the different types of third-person point of view in literature, see Narration on Wikipedia.

Multiple perspectives point of view is characterized by the use of multiple narrators or points of view in a story. This point of view allows for a variety of insights and interpretations, as the reader is exposed to different characters' thoughts and feelings. Multiple perspectives can also create a sense of complexity and richness in the story, as different characters' experiences and perspectives are woven together.

Multiple perspectives point of view is often used in contemporary literature, as it reflects the diverse and fragmented nature of modern society. Examples of multiple perspectives point of view in literature include The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan, As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner, and Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell. For more information about multiple perspectives point of view, see Multiple narrative on Wikipedia.

Stream of consciousness point of view is characterized by the use of a narrative technique that attempts to represent the flow of a character's thoughts, emotions, and sensations in a continuous and unbroken sequence. This point of view creates a sense of immediacy and immersion, as the reader experiences the character's consciousness in real time.

Stream of consciousness point of view is often used in modernist and postmodernist literature, as it reflects the subjective and fragmented nature of human experience. Examples of stream of consciousness point of view in literature include Ulysses by James Joyce, To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf, and The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner. For more information about stream of consciousness point of view, see Stream of consciousness (narrative mode) on Wikipedia.

Objective point of view is characterized by the use of a neutral and detached narrative voice that does not reveal the thoughts or feelings of the characters. This point of view creates a sense of objectivity and impartiality, allowing the reader to form their own interpretations and opinions.

Objective point of view is often used in journalism, historical writing, and other forms of non-fiction, as it emphasizes factual accuracy and avoids subjective bias. It can also be used in fiction, particularly in genres such as detective fiction or courtroom drama, where the focus is on the investigation and resolution of a problem rather than on the characters' emotions or perspectives. Examples of objective point of view in literature include The Trial by Franz Kafka, The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett, and The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro. For more information about objective point of view, see Objectivity (journalism) on Wikipedia.

Each type of point of view has its own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing the right one depends on the specific needs and goals of the story. Some writers may experiment with multiple points of view within the same story, using different narrators or perspectives to create a more complex and nuanced narrative.

For more information about the different types of point of view in literature, see Narration on Wikipedia.

Choosing the Right Point of View

Choosing the right point of view for a story is a crucial decision for any writer. The point of view can shape the entire narrative, affecting the reader's understanding of the characters, events, and themes of the story. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a point of view:

  • Characterization: The point of view can affect the reader's understanding of the characters in a story. First-person point of view can create a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as the reader is given direct access to the thoughts and feelings of the protagonist. Third-person point of view can create a sense of objectivity and distance, allowing the reader to form their own opinions about the characters.
  • Plot: The point of view can affect the pacing and structure of the plot. First-person point of view can create a sense of urgency and immediacy, as the reader is experiencing the events of the story in real time. Third-person point of view can allow for a broader perspective on the plot, allowing the reader to see events from multiple angles.
  • Theme: The point of view can affect the reader's understanding of the themes and motifs of the story. First-person point of view can create a sense of subjectivity and personal experience, allowing the reader to see the world through the eyes of the protagonist. Third-person point of view can create a sense of universality and objectivity, allowing the reader to see the story as a reflection of broader human experience.
  • Tone: The point of view can affect the tone and mood of the story. First-person point of view can create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, allowing the reader to connect with the protagonist on a personal level. Third-person point of view can create a sense of detachment and objectivity, allowing the reader to see the story from a more analytical perspective.

Ultimately, the choice of point of view depends on the specific needs and goals of the story. Some writers may experiment with multiple points of view within the same story, using different narrators or perspectives to create a more complex and nuanced narrative. However, it is important to choose a point of view that is appropriate for the story and that enhances the reader's understanding and engagement with the text.

Choosing the right point of view is an important decision for any writer, and there are several factors to consider when making this choice. Here are some considerations that writers should keep in mind:

  • Story's purpose: The purpose of the story can affect the choice of point of view. If the story is intended to explore the inner thoughts and emotions of a single character, first-person point of view may be the best choice. If the story is intended to provide a broad perspective on a complex social issue, third-person omniscient point of view may be more appropriate.
  • Intended audience: The intended audience can also affect the choice of point of view. If the story is intended for children, a simpler and more straightforward point of view may be necessary. If the story is intended for adults, a more complex and nuanced point of view may be appropriate.
  • Author's style: The author's writing style and voice can also influence the choice of point of view. Some writers may prefer the intimacy and immediacy of first-person point of view, while others may prefer the objectivity and distance of third-person point of view.
  • Characterization: The point of view can also affect the reader's understanding of the characters in a story. The writer should consider whether they want to provide a broad perspective on multiple characters or focus on the experiences of a single character.
  • Plot: The plot of the story can also affect the choice of point of view. The writer should consider whether they want to provide a clear and straightforward narrative or a more complex and nuanced one.
  • Theme: The themes and motifs of the story can also affect the choice of point of view. The writer should consider whether they want to provide a personal and subjective perspective or a broader and more objective one.

Ultimately, the choice of point of view depends on the specific needs and goals of the story. The writer should consider all of these factors when making their choice, and should experiment with different points of view if necessary.

Effective use of point of view can be seen in a wide range of literature, across different genres and historical periods. Here are some examples of successful use of point of view:

  • The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald - This classic novel is told from the first-person point of view of Nick Carraway, who provides a personal and intimate perspective on the events of the story. Nick's limited point of view allows for a gradual reveal of the character of Jay Gatsby, and provides a sense of intimacy and immediacy that enhances the reader's engagement with the text.
  • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee - This novel is told from the first-person point of view of Scout Finch, a young girl living in a small southern town during the 1930s. Scout's innocent and naïve perspective allows for a powerful exploration of issues of race, class, and justice, and provides a sense of empathy and connection between the reader and the characters.
  • Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - This novel is told from the third-person omniscient point of view, which allows for a broader perspective on the events of the story. The point of view allows the reader to see events from the perspectives of multiple characters, providing a complex and nuanced exploration of themes of love, class, and social conventions.
  • The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner - This novel is told from multiple first-person and third-person points of view, allowing for a fragmented and complex narrative structure. The use of different points of view allows for a deep exploration of the characters' inner thoughts and emotions, and provides a sense of psychological realism that is characteristic of Faulkner's style.
  • The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - This novel is told from the first-person point of view of Katniss Everdeen, a teenage girl living in a dystopian future. Katniss's point of view allows for a personal and emotional connection with the reader, and provides a sense of urgency and immediacy that enhances the tension and suspense of the story.

Mastering Point of View in Writing

Point of view is an essential element of storytelling, and mastering it can be a challenge for writers. By understanding the different types of point of view and the factors to consider when choosing a point of view, writers can create narratives that are engaging, meaningful, and effective. Here are some tips for mastering point of view in writing:

  • Read widely: Reading widely can expose writers to different types of point of view and show them how different writers have used point of view effectively. Reading works from different genres and historical periods can also provide writers with a deeper understanding of how point of view can shape a narrative.
  • Experiment with different points of view: Writers should experiment with different points of view to see which one works best for their story. They should consider the purpose of the story, the intended audience, and their own writing style when making this choice.
  • Use point of view to enhance characterization: Point of view can be used to provide a deeper understanding of the characters in a story. Writers should consider how the point of view affects the reader's understanding of the characters' thoughts, emotions, and motivations.
  • Use point of view to shape the plot: Point of view can also be used to shape the plot of a story. Writers should consider how the point of view affects the pacing, structure, and tension of the narrative.
  • Use point of view to explore themes: Point of view can also be used to explore themes and motifs in a story. Writers should consider how the point of view affects the reader's understanding of the story's themes and how it contributes to the overall meaning of the narrative.

By mastering point of view, writers can create narratives that are compelling, engaging, and effective. Some examples of works from different genres and historical periods that demonstrate effective use of point of view include The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, The Sound and the Fury by William Faulkner, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.

Establishing point of view is an important task for writers, as it sets the tone and perspective for the entire story. Here are some tips for establishing point of view:

  • Establish point of view early: Writers should establish the point of view at the beginning of the story, preferably in the first paragraph or sentence. This allows the reader to understand the perspective from which the story will be told.
  • Be consistent: Once the point of view has been established, writers should be consistent throughout the narrative. Switching point of view can be confusing for the reader and can disrupt the flow of the story.
  • Use language and tone to establish point of view: The language and tone used in the narrative can help establish the point of view. First-person point of view may use more personal and subjective language, while third-person point of view may use more objective and distant language.
  • Show, don't tell: Writers should show the reader the point of view rather than telling them. This means using sensory details, dialogue, and action to convey the perspective of the narrator or character.
  • Consider the narrator: If the story is being told by a narrator, the writer should consider the narrator's perspective and how it affects the reader's understanding of the story. The narrator's biases, limitations, and motivations can all affect the reader's perception of the events.

Establishing point of view is a crucial aspect of storytelling, as it sets the tone and perspective for the entire narrative. Some examples of works that effectively establish point of view include The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, which is told from the first-person point of view of Holden Caulfield, and Beloved by Toni Morrison, which uses multiple points of view to convey the perspectives of different characters.

Maintaining consistency of point of view is crucial for keeping the reader engaged and avoiding confusion. Here are some tips for maintaining point of view:

  • Stay in the same point of view: Writers should avoid switching point of view within a scene or paragraph. This can be jarring for the reader and can disrupt the flow of the narrative.
  • Avoid head-hopping: Head-hopping is when the writer jumps from one character's perspective to another within a scene or paragraph. This can be confusing for the reader and can make it difficult to establish a connection with the characters.
  • Use sensory details to convey perspective: Writers should use sensory details, such as sight, sound, and touch, to convey the perspective of the narrator or character. This can help the reader understand the point of view without explicitly stating it.
  • Be aware of shifts in tone and language: Shifts in tone and language can signal a change in point of view. Writers should be aware of these shifts and make sure they are intentional and consistent with the narrative.
  • Consider the narrator: If the story is being told by a narrator, the writer should consider the narrator's biases, limitations, and motivations. This can affect the reader's perception of the events and should be consistent throughout the narrative.

By maintaining consistency of point of view, writers can create narratives that are engaging and effective. Some common mistakes to avoid include switching point of view without warning, using too many points of view, and confusing the reader with unclear perspective shifts. Some examples of works that effectively maintain point of view include The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger and The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins.

Switching point of view can add depth and complexity to a narrative, but it must be done carefully to avoid confusion or disruption of the flow. Here are some tips for switching point of view:

  • Make it clear: Switching point of view should be clear to the reader. This can be done by using chapter breaks, scene breaks, or clear transitions between perspectives.
  • Limit the number of perspectives: Too many perspectives can be overwhelming for the reader. It's best to limit the number of perspectives and make sure each one is distinct and adds something to the story.
  • Consider the purpose: The decision to switch point of view should be based on the purpose of the story. Is it necessary to show different perspectives to fully understand the plot or themes?
  • Use transitions: Transitions can help make the switch between points of view seamless. This can be done by using a bridge sentence or paragraph that connects the two perspectives.
  • Be consistent: Once a point of view has been established, it should be consistent throughout the narrative. Switching back and forth can be confusing for the reader.

Switching point of view can be a powerful tool for writers, allowing them to explore different perspectives and add depth to their stories. Some examples of works that effectively switch point of view include The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver and Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn.

The point of view used in a story can have a significant impact on the level of intimacy and distance between the reader and the narrative. Here are some ways point of view can affect narrative distance:

  • First-person point of view: This point of view can create a close, intimate relationship between the reader and the narrator or protagonist. It allows the reader to experience the story through the character's eyes and emotions.
  • Third-person point of view: This point of view can create a greater sense of distance between the reader and the characters. It allows the writer to provide a broader perspective and can create a more objective tone.
  • Omniscient point of view: This point of view can provide the greatest level of distance between the reader and the characters. It allows the writer to provide a god-like perspective and can create a sense of detachment from the story.
  • Shifting point of view: This technique can create a range of distances between the reader and the characters, depending on the perspectives used. It can provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations.

Understanding the impact of point of view on narrative distance can help writers achieve the desired effect in their stories. For example, a writer may choose first-person point of view to create a sense of intimacy and empathy with the protagonist, or third-person point of view to create a more objective, journalistic tone.

Some examples of works that effectively use point of view to create different levels of narrative distance include The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, which uses first-person point of view to create a close relationship between the reader and the protagonist, and War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, which uses shifting point of view to provide multiple perspectives on the events.

Point of view can be a powerful tool for developing characters and their perspectives in a story. Here are some ways point of view can be used for character development:

  • Show, don't tell: Point of view can allow the reader to experience a character's thoughts, emotions, and actions, rather than simply being told about them. This can create a deeper understanding of the character and their motivations.
  • Provide multiple perspectives: Shifting point of view can allow the reader to see a character from different perspectives, providing a more complete understanding of their personality and behavior.
  • Avoid stereotypes: Point of view can help writers avoid creating one-dimensional or stereotypical characters by allowing the reader to see their complexity and contradictions.
  • Consider the narrator: The choice of narrator can affect how the characters are perceived by the reader. A biased or unreliable narrator can create a sense of ambiguity and add complexity to the characters.

It's important to avoid using point of view in a way that reduces characters to stereotypes or caricatures. Characters should be fully realized and multi-dimensional, with their own unique perspectives and motivations.

Some examples of works that effectively use point of view for character development include To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, which uses first-person point of view to develop the protagonist's moral compass and understanding of justice, and The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, which uses first-person point of view to provide a complex portrayal of the protagonist's adolescent rebellion and disillusionment.

Point of view can vary greatly between different genres of literature. Here are some examples of how point of view is used in different genres:

  • Romance: Romance novels often use alternating first-person point of view to provide a more intimate understanding of both protagonists' feelings and perspectives. Some romance novels also use third-person point of view to create a more objective view of the romance.
  • Mystery: Mystery novels often use first-person point of view to create a sense of intimacy with the detective or protagonist, allowing the reader to solve the mystery alongside them. Some mystery novels also use third-person point of view to provide a more objective view of the investigation.
  • Science fiction: Science fiction novels often use third-person point of view to provide a broader perspective on the futuristic world and its inhabitants. Some science fiction novels also use shifting point of view to provide multiple perspectives on the technology and its impact on society.
  • Fantasy: Fantasy novels often use third-person point of view to provide a broad view of the magical world and its characters. Some fantasy novels also use shifting point of view to provide multiple perspectives on the epic battles and political intrigue.

Understanding how point of view is used in different genres can help writers choose the appropriate perspective for their story. Some examples of works that effectively use point of view in different genres include Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, which uses third-person point of view to provide a satirical view of society and its customs, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, which uses first-person point of view to create a sense of urgency and tension in the dystopian world.

While point of view can be a powerful tool for storytelling, there are some common mistakes that writers should avoid:

  • Head-hopping: This is when the point of view shifts rapidly between different characters within a single scene or paragraph. This can be confusing and disorienting for the reader and should be avoided.
  • Inconsistent perspective: This is when the point of view changes unexpectedly or inconsistently throughout the story. This can be jarring for the reader and can interrupt the flow of the narrative.
  • Using the wrong point of view: This is when the chosen point of view does not suit the story or the intended effect. For example, using third-person point of view in a deeply personal story can create a sense of emotional distance.
  • Ignoring the narrator's bias: The narrator's bias or perspective can affect how the story is perceived by the reader. Ignoring this can result in a one-dimensional portrayal of the characters or a simplified view of the story.
  • Overusing internal monologue: While internal monologue can be a powerful tool for showing a character's thoughts and emotions, overusing it can slow down the pacing of the story and create a sense of self-indulgence.

Avoiding these common mistakes can help writers use point of view effectively and create a more immersive and engaging story.

Below are some frequently asked questions that will provide you with more information.

What is the difference between first-person and third-person point of view?

In first-person point of view, the narrator is a character within the story and refers to themselves as "I" or "me." In third-person point of view, the narrator is not a character in the story and refers to the characters as "he," "she," or "they." This creates a sense of distance from the characters but allows for a broader perspective on the events of the story.

How can point of view be used to create a sense of intimacy with the reader?

Point of view can be used to create a sense of intimacy with the reader by using first-person point of view or close third-person point of view. This allows the reader to see the story through the eyes of a character and experience their thoughts, emotions, and sensory experiences in a more direct way.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using point of view?

Some common mistakes to avoid when using point of view include head-hopping, inconsistent perspective, using the wrong point of view for the story, ignoring the narrator's bias, and overusing internal monologue. Avoiding these mistakes can help writers use point of view effectively and create a more immersive and engaging story.

If you're interested in learning more about point of view in writing, check out these books:

  • On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King: This memoir by one of the most successful and prolific authors of our time includes a section on the importance of point of view in writing. King discusses the different types of point of view and offers advice on how to choose the right one for your story.

In conclusion, point of view is an essential element of storytelling that can greatly affect how a reader experiences a story. By choosing the right point of view, writers can create intimacy or distance between the reader and the story, shape the reader's perception of characters and events, and influence the overall tone and mood of the story. However, using point of view effectively can be a challenge, and writers must consider factors such as the story's purpose, intended audience, and their own writing style when choosing a point of view.

Throughout this article, we've explored different types of point of view, discussed how to establish, maintain, and switch point of view, and looked at how point of view can be used in different genres and to develop characters. We've also discussed common mistakes to avoid when using point of view and provided examples of successful use of point of view in literature.

If you're interested in learning more about point of view in writing, we recommend checking out the books listed in the Further Reading section of this article. You can also visit the Point of View page on Wikipedia for more information.

Overall, mastering point of view in writing is a challenging but rewarding task that can greatly enhance the quality and impact of your storytelling. By understanding the different types of point of view, considering the needs of your story and your readers, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create immersive, engaging, and memorable stories that resonate with your audience.

  • What Is 1st Person 2nd Person 3rd Person With Examples
  • What Are The Three Points Of View?
  • What Is The Point Of View?
  • Mastering The Second Person Viewpoint: A Comprehensive Guide To Engaging Your Readers
  • Third Person Point Of View Explained (With Examples)
  • First Person Point Of View A Comprehensive Overview For Writers [Including Examples]

Claim your free eBook today and join over 25,000 writers who have read and benefited from this ebook.

'It is probably one of the best books on writing I've read so far.' Miz Bent

Writing Manual

importance of point of view in creative writing

  • How to Write A Book
  • How to Get Published
  • Self-Publishing
  • Writing Prompts
  • Writing for a Living
  • Common Writing Mistakes
  • Advertise With Us
  • How To Tackle Jealousy In Creative Writing
  • Common Submission Mistakes
  • How To Stop Your Blog Becoming Boring
  • The One Thing Every Successful Writer Has In Common
  • How To Make Yourself Aware Of Publishing Scams
  • Why Almost ALL Writers Make These Grammar Mistakes At Some Point
  • 5 Tips For Authors On How To Deal With Rejection
  • Top Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Novel
  • How to Avoid Common New Writer Mistakes
  • 10 Mistakes New Fiction Writers Make

The Importance Of The Point Of View

The Importance Of The Point Of View - Writer's Life.org

One of the most critical decisions any writer has to make is whose point of view they are going to tell their story from. The whole relationship between the writer and their story is set when they make this decision.

The viewpoint from which a writer tells a story determines its whole outlook, and each perspective comes with its own devices that can give writers great freedom, but also limit them too.

So how does one decide which point of view to use? Let's take a look at some of the different types.

First person singular. The first person singular point of view gives writers an opportunity to make the story genuinely personal.

The readers will follow the story through a single characters eyes; this can make them feel very bonded to that character and allows the scope to play with the intimacy between reader and character as well as create a sense of immediacy which can help to keep the story moving along.

However, this viewpoint means that only one side of the story is told. The narrator's knowledge of events and the way they see the world is the only opportunity for readers to get what is going on. If the novel has a large cast of other interesting characters, it may be challenging to get readers to have the same connection or identify with them.

Third person limited

Third-person limited tells the story from only one person’s perspective but as if the reader was following them around and observing.

This point of view allows readers to gain a slightly broader perspective while still being permitted to understand the characters innermost thoughts and feelings without being bound to their particular opinions.

This perspective allows the writer to prove the protagonist wrong or reveal biases that the character does not even know that they have. The writer maintains control and authority while still being able to tell the story of one particular individual that the readers follow throughout.

Third person omniscient

Using this viewpoint means that many different characters perspectives are explored. This allows the reader to see many different sides of the story, and to get to know a whole cast of characters on a more intimate level.

However, employing this perspective can mean that the reader has to work harder to make sure they know whose viewpoint they see things from, and if there are too many characters and perspective switches too regularly, it is possible they could become confused, frustrated and unable to follow the story any longer.

Of course, writers are perfectly entitled to choose whichever perspective they wish, and may even want to mix in two or three different views in their story (though be warned this could confuse your reader if not done well). Whatever you chose, it is worth giving some time and consideration to point of view, and experimenting with it to find the best way to tell your story just as it should be told.

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

' src=

About Ty Cohen

Related posts.

  • How To Organize Your Writing Day How To Organize Your Writing Day
  • Should You Kill Off A Character? Should You Kill Off A Character?

importance of point of view in creative writing

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Latest News

Want to learn how to organize your writing day? These...

  • Posted March 31, 2022

Wondering whether you should kill off a character? Read on...

  • Posted January 20, 2022

If you have got a new story idea, how do...

  • Posted December 30, 2021

Know your readers better and you'll be able to write...

Self-Publishing shame is real. Yet it shouldn't be. Self-publishing has...

  • Posted November 17, 2021

Writing a blog for your business is a useful way...

  • Posted November 4, 2021

Write your novel faster with these useful tips! Writing a...

  • Posted October 14, 2021

Stay Connected

Newsletter signup.

Want to learn how to organize your writing day?...

  • March 31, 2022

Wondering whether you should kill off a character? Read...

  • January 20, 2022

If you have got a new story idea, how...

  • December 30, 2021

How To Know Its Time To Quit Writing - Writer's Life.org

The hard truth of the matter is - not...

  • May 6, 2016

importance of point of view in creative writing

A good writer is always looking for ways to...

  • June 23, 2016

Stuck For Writing Ideas? Try These - Writer's Life.org

While some writers believe in writer's block and some...

  • January 25, 2017

How To Self-Publish Your Book On Amazon

Not so long ago, the first hurdle for an...

  • January 31, 2015

importance of point of view in creative writing

Grammar is a tricky beast. There are so many...

  • March 4, 2016

How to Avoid Common New Writer Mistakes - Writer's Life.org

"Share, Like or Tweet If You Love Writing" So...

How Do you Know If Your Writing Is Good? - Writer's Life.org

This is a question that all writers, both aspiring...

  • March 11, 2016

Avoid These Blogging Mistakes - Writer's Life.org

Every writer knows that one of the ways you...

  • August 5, 2016

How To Choose Your Author Name - Writer's Life.org

If you are hoping to have a long and...

  • February 1, 2016

Past Or Present Tense - The Pro's and Cons - Writer's Life.org

When creating any new piece of writing, selecting the tense...

  • December 18, 2015

Facebook Site Visit Tracking

  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

Writer's Life.org is the go to place for writers and authors across the planet and of all genres. Our mission is to give you the resources, tools and information needed to take your writing to the next level.

How do we plan on accomplishing this? Easy, instead of focusing 110% of our efforts on meaningless things such as correct spelling, proper grammar and fancy words...

...We'll give you solid information, that you'll get solid results with when tested in the real world ;-)

So with that said...

Consider the mis-spellings, grammatical mistakes and lack of $1000.00 words that you may or may not find on this site a reminder to you to focus on the things that will "really" prompt publishers to become interested in your book or potential fans of your writing to want more and more and more..

...And that is, learning how to write not good, but Great content, that pulls people in and will have them coming back begging for more. (Geesh... Could we get any worse with this run on sentence and lack of structure? I guess not, but I'm sure you get the point...)

A publishing house could care less if you won the spelling bee 10 years in a row.. They have editors that they pay to correct mistakes...

The only thing they are interested in is knowing if your writing is something that will SELL..

Nothing more, nothing less!

Consider this lesson #1 ;-) (Use the social buttons above to follow us on your favorite social site.. You'd hate to mis the next lesson wouldn't you?)

  • Product Disclaimer
  • Information Disclaimer
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Statement
  • Write for Writer’s Life

Copyright © WritersLife.org 2017-2022 All rights reserved.

The Write Practice

Types of Point of View: The Ultimate Guide to First Person and Third Person POV

by Joe Bunting | 72 comments

In my experience as an editor, point of view problems are among the top mistakes I see new writers make, and they instantly erode credibility and reader trust. Point of view isn't easy though, since there are so many to choose from: first person point of view, third person limited, third person omniscient, and second person.

What do those even mean? And how do you choose the right one for your story?

Point of View in Writing

All stories are written from a point of view. However, when point of view goes wrong—and believe me, it goes wrong often—you threaten whatever trust you have with your reader. You also fracture their suspension of disbelief.

However, point of view is simple to master if you use common sense.

This post will define point of view, go over each of the major POVs, explain a few of the POV rules, and then point out the major pitfalls writers make when dealing with that point of view.

importance of point of view in creative writing

Table of Contents

Point of View Definition The 4 Types of Point of View The #1 POV Mistake First Person Point of View Second Person Point of View Third Person Limited Point of View Third Person Omniscient Point of View FAQ: Can you change POV in a Series? Practice Exercise

Point of View Definition

The point of view, or POV, in a story is the narrator's position in the description of events, and comes from the Latin word, punctum visus , which literally means point sight. The point of view is where a writer points the sight of the reader.

Note that point of view also has a second definition.

In a discussion, an argument, or nonfiction writing, a point of view is an opinion about a subject. This is not the type of point of view we're going to focus on in this article (although it is helpful for nonfiction writers, and for more information, I recommend checking out Wikipedia's neutral point of view policy ).

I especially like the German word for POV, which is Gesichtspunkt , translated “face point,” or where your face is pointed. Isn't that a good visual for what's involved in point of view? It's the limited perspective of what you show your reader.

Note too that point of view is sometimes called narrative mode or narrative perspective.

Why Point of View Is So Important

Why does point of view matter so much?

For a fiction writer, point of view filters everything in your story. Everything in your story must come from a point of view.

Which means if you get it wrong, your entire story is damaged.

For example, I've personally read and judged thousands of stories for literary contests, and I've found point of view mistakes in about twenty percent of them. Many of these stories would have placed much higher if only the writers hadn't made the mistakes we're going to talk about soon.

The worst part is these mistakes are easily avoidable if you're aware of them. But before we get into the common point of view mistakes, let's go over each of the four types of narrative perspective.

The Four Types of Point of View

Here are the four primary types of narration in fiction:

  • First person point of view.  First person perspective is when “I” am telling the story. The character is in  the story, relating his or her experiences directly.
  • Second person point of view. The story is told to “you.” This POV is not common in fiction, but it's still good to know (it is  common in nonfiction).
  • Third person point of view, limited. The story is about “he” or “she.” This is the most common point of view in commercial fiction. The narrator is outside of the story and relating the experiences of a character.
  • Third person point of view, omniscient. The story is still about “he” or “she,” but the narrator has full access to the thoughts and experiences of all  characters in the story. This is a much broader perspective.

http://

I know you've seen and probably even used most of these point of views.

While these are the only types of POV, there are additional narrative techniques you can use to tell an interesting story. To learn how to use devices like epistolary and framing stories, check out our full narrative devices guide here .

Let's discuss each of the four types, using examples to see how they affect your story. We'll also go over the rules for each type, but first let me explain the big mistake you don't want to make with point of view.

The #1 POV Mistake

Do not begin your story with a first person narrator and then switch to a third person narrator. Do not start with third person limited and then abruptly give your narrator full omniscience. This is the most common type of error I see writers make with POV.

The guideline I learned in my first creative writing class in college is a good one:

Establish the point of view within the first two paragraphs of your story.

And above all, don't change your point of view . If you do, it creates a jarring experience for the reader and you'll threaten your reader's trust. You could even fracture the architecture of your story.

That being said, as long as you're consistent, you can sometimes get away with using multiple POV types. This isn't easy and isn't recommended, but for example, one of my favorite stories, a 7,000 page web serial called Worm ,  uses two point of views—first person with interludes of third-person limited—very effectively. (By the way, if you're looking for a novel to read over the next two to six months, I highly recommend it—here's the link to read for free online .) The first time the author switched point of views, he nearly lost my trust. However, he kept this dual-POV consistent over 7,000 pages and made it work.

Whatever point of view choices you make, be consistent. Your readers will thank you!

Now, let's go into detail on each of the four narrative perspective types, their best practices, and mistakes to avoid.

First Person Point of View

In first person point of view, the narrator is in the story and telling the events he or she is personally experiencing.

The simplest way to understand first person is that the narrative will use first-person pronouns like I, me, and my.

Here's a first person point of view example from Herman Melville's  Moby Dick :

Call me Ishmael. Some years ago—never mind how long precisely—having little or no money in my purse, and nothing particular to interest me on shore, I thought I would sail about a little and see the watery part of the world

First person narrative perspective is one of the most common POVs in fiction. If you haven't read a book in first person point of view, you haven't been reading.

What makes this point of view interesting, and challenging, is that all of the events in the story are filtered through the narrator and explained in his or her own unique narrative voice.

This means first person narrative is both biased and incomplete, but it can also deliver a level of intimacy other POVs can't.

Other first person point of view examples can be found in these popular novels :

  • The Sun Also Rises  by Ernest Hemingway
  • Twilight by Stephenie Meyer
  • Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
  • The Hunger Games  by Suzanne Collins
  • The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
  • Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brönte

First Person Narrative is Unique to Writing

There's no such thing as first person in film or theater—although voiceovers and mockumentary interviews like the ones in The Office and Modern Family provide a level of first person narrative in third person perspective film and television.

In fact, the very first novels were written in first person, modeled after popular journals and autobiographies which were first-person stories of nonfiction..

First Person Point of View is Limited

First person narrators are narrated from a single character's perspective at a time. They cannot be everywhere at once and thus cannot get all sides of the story.

They are telling their  story, not necessarily the  story.

First Person Point of View is Biased

In first person novels, the reader almost always sympathizes with a first person narrator, even if the narrator is an anti-hero with major flaws.

Of course, this is why we love first person narrative, because it's imbued with the character's personality, their unique perspective on the world.

The most extreme use of this bias is called an unreliable narrator. Unreliable narration is a technique used by novelists to surprise the reader by capitalize on the limitations of first person narration to make the narrator's version of events extremely prejudicial to their side and/or highly separated from reality.

You'll notice this form of narration being used when you, as the reader or audience, discover that you can't trust the narrator.

For example, Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl  pits two unreliable narrators against one another. Each relates their conflicting version of events, one through typical narration and the other through journal entries. Another example is  Fight  Club , in which *SPOILER* the narrator has a split personality and imagines another character who drives the plot.

Other Interesting Uses of First Person Narrative:

  • The classic novel Heart of Darkness is actually a first person narrative within a first person narrative. The narrator recounts verbatim the story Charles Marlow tells about his trip up the Congo river while they sit at port in England.
  • William Faulkner's Absalom,  Absalom  is told from the first person point of view of Quentin Compson; however, most of the story is a third person account of Thomas Sutpen, his grandfather, as told to Quentin by Rosa Coldfield. Yes, it's just as complicated as it sounds!
  • Salman Rushdie's award-winning  Midnight's Children  is told in first person, but spends most of the first several hundred pages giving a precise third person account of the narrator's ancestors. It's still first person, just a first person narrator telling a story about someone else.

Two Big Mistakes Writers Make with First Person Point of View

When writing in first person, there are two major mistakes writers make :

1. The narrator isn't  likable. Your protagonist doesn't have to be a cliché hero. She doesn't even need to be good. However, she must  be interesting .

The audience will not stick around for 300 pages  listening to a character they don't enjoy. This is one reason why anti-heroes make great first person narrators.

They may not be morally perfect, but they're almost always interesting. (Remember Holden Caulfield in The Catcher in the Rye ?)

2. The narrator tells but doesn't show. The danger with first person is that you could spend too much time in your character's head, explaining what he's thinking and how he feels about the situation.

You're allowed to mention the character's mood, but don't forget that your reader's trust and attention relies on what your character does , not what he thinks about doing.

Second Person Point of View

While not used often in fiction—it is used regularly in nonfiction, song lyrics, and even video games—second person POV is still helpful to understand.

In this point of view, the narrator relates the experiences using second person pronouns like you and your. Thus, you  become the protagonist, you  carry the plot, and your  fate determines the story.

We've written elsewhere about why you should try writing in second person , but in short we like second person because it:

  • Pulls the reader into the action of the story
  • Makes the story   personal
  • Surprises the reader
  • Stretches your skills as a writer

Here's an example from the breakout bestseller  Bright Lights, Big City by Jay Mclnerney (probably the most popular example that uses second person point of view):

You have friends who actually care about you and speak the language of the inner self. You have avoided them of late. Your soul is as disheveled as your apartment, and until you can clean it up a little you don't want to invite anyone inside.

Second person narration isn't used frequently, however there are some notable examples of it.

Some other novels that use second person point of view are:

  • Remember the Choose Your Own Adventure series? If you've ever read one of these novels where you get to decide the fate of the character (I always killed my character, unfortunately), you've read second person narrative.
  • The Fifth Season  by N.K. Jemison
  • The opening of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

There are also many experimental novels and short stories that use second person, and writers such as William Faulkner, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Albert Camus played with the style.

Breaking the fourth wall:

In the plays of William Shakespeare, a character will sometimes turn toward the audience and speak directly to them. In  A Midsummer Night's Dream , Puck says:

If we shadows have offended, think but this, and all is mended, that you have but slumbered here while these visions did appear.

This narrative device of speaking directly to the audience or the reader is called breaking the fourth wall (the other three walls being the setting of the story).

To think of it another way, it's a way the writer can briefly use second person in a first or third person narrative.

It's a lot of fun! You should try it.

Third Person Point of View

In third person narration, the narrator is outside of the story and relating the experiences of a character.

The central character is not the narrator. In fact, the narrator is not present in the story at all.

The simplest way to understand third person narration is that it uses third-person pronouns, like he/she, his/hers, they/theirs.

There are two types of this point of view:

Third Person Omniscient

The all-knowing narrator has full access to all  the thoughts and experiences of all  the characters in the story.

Examples of Third Person Omniscient:

While much less common today, third person omniscient narration was once the predominant type, used by most classic authors. Here are some of the novels using omniscient perspective today.

  • War and Peace  by Leo Tolstoy
  • Middlemarch  by George Eliot
  • Where the Crawdad's Sing by Delia Owens
  • The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway
  • Still Life by Louise Penny (and all the Inspector Gamache series, which is amazing, by the way)
  • Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar
  • Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor
  • Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan (one of my favorites!)
  • A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula Le Guin
  • Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
  • More third person omniscient examples can be found here

Third Person Limited

The narrator has only some, if any, access to the thoughts and experiences of the characters in the story, often just to one  character .

Examples of Third Person Limited

Here's an example of a third person limited narrator from  Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone  by J.K. Rowling:

A breeze ruffled the neat hedges of Privet Drive, which lay silent and tidy under the inky sky, the very last place you would expect astonishing things to happen. Harry Potter rolled over inside his blankets without waking up. One small hand closed on the letter beside him and he slept on, not knowing he was special, not knowing he was famous…. He couldn't know that at this very moment, people meeting in secret all over the country were holding up their glasses and saying in hushed voices: “To Harry Potter—the boy who lived!”

Some other examples of third person limited narration include:

  • Game of Thrones s eries by George R.R. Martin (this has an ensemble cast, but Martin stays in one character's point of view at a time, making it a clear example of limited POV with multiple viewpoint characters, which we'll talk about in just a moment)
  • For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway
  • ​The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson
  • The Da Vinci Code  by Dan Brown
  • The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
  • Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Love in the Time of Cholera  by Gabriel Garcia Marquez
  • 1984  by   George Orwell
  • Orphan Train by   Christina Baker Kline
  • Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff

Should You Use Multiple Viewpoint Characters vs. a Single Perspective?

One feature of third person limited and first person narrative is that you have the option of having multiple viewpoint characters.

A viewpoint character is simply the character whose thoughts the reader has access to. This character become the focus of the perspective during the section of story or the story as a whole.

While it increases the difficulty, you can have multiple viewpoint characters for each narrative. For example,  Game of Thrones  has more than a dozen viewpoint characters throughout the series.  Fifth Season has three viewpoint characters. Most romance novels have at least two viewpoint characters.

The rule is to only focus on one viewpoint character at a time (or else it changes to third person omniscient).

Usually authors with multiple viewpoint characters will change viewpoints every chapter. Some will change after section breaks. However, make sure there is  some  kind of break before changing so as to prepare the reader for the shift.

Should You Use Third Person Omniscient or Third Person Limited

The distinction between third persons limited and omniscient is messy and somewhat artificial.

Full omniscience in novels is rare—it's almost always limited in some way—if only because the human mind isn't comfortable handling all the thoughts and emotions of multiple people at once.

The most important consideration in third person point of view is this:

How omniscient are you going to be? How deep are you going to go into your character's mind? Will you read their thoughts frequently and deeply at any chance? Or will you rarely, if ever, delve into their emotions?

To see this question in action, imagine a couple having an argument.

Tina wants Fred to go to the store to pickup the cilantro she forgot she needed for the meal she's cooking. Fred is frustrated that she didn't ask him to pick up the cilantro on the way home from the office, before he had changed into his “homey” clothes (AKA boxer shorts).

If the narrator is fully omniscient, do you parse both Fred and Tina's emotions during each back and forth?

“Do you want to eat ? If you do, then you need to get cilantro instead of acting like a lazy pig,” Tina said, thinking, I can't believe I married this jerk. At least back then he had a six pack, not this hairy potbelly . “Figure it out, Tina. I'm sick of rushing to the store every time you forget something,” said Fred. He felt the anger pulsing through his large belly.

Going back and forth between multiple characters' emotions like this can give a reader whiplash, especially if this pattern continued over several pages and with more than two characters. This is an example of an omniscient narrator who perhaps is a little too comfortable explaining the characters' inner workings.

“ Show, don't tell ,” we're told. Sharing all  the emotions of all  your characters can become distraction. It can even destroy any tension you've built.

Drama requires mystery. If the reader knows each character's emotions all the time, there will be no space for drama.

How do You Handle Third Person Omniscient Well?

The way many editors and many famous authors handle this is to show the thoughts and emotions of only one character per scene (or per chapter).

George R.R. Martin, for example, uses “ point of view characters ,” characters whom he always has full access to understanding. He will write a full chapter from their perspective before switching to the next point of view character.

For the rest of the cast, he stays out of their heads.

This is an effective guideline, if not a strict rule, and it's one I would suggest to any first-time author experimenting with third person narrative. Overall, though, the principle to show, don't tell should be your guide.

The Biggest Third Person Omniscient Point of View Mistake

The biggest mistake I see writers make constantly in third person is  head hopping .

When you switch point of view characters too quickly, or dive into the heads of too many characters at once, you could be in danger of what editors call “head hopping.”

When the narrator switches from one character’s thoughts to another’s  too quickly, it can jar the reader and break the intimacy with the scene’s main character.

We've written about how you can get away with head hopping elsewhere , but it's a good idea to try to avoid going into more than one character's thoughts per scene or per chapter.

Can You Change POV Between Books In a Series?

What if you're writing a novel series? Can you change point of view or even POV characters between books?

The answer is yes, you can, but whether you should or not is the big question.

In general, it's best to keep your POV consistent within the same series. However, there are many examples of series that have altered perspectives or POV characters between series, either because the character in the previous books has died, for other plot reasons, or simply because of author choice.

For more on this, watch this coaching video where we get into how and why to change POV characters between books in a series:

How to Choose the RIGHT POV Character

Which Point of View Will You Use?

Here's a helpful point of view infographic to help you decide which POV to use in your writing:

Distance in Point of View

Note that these distances should be thought of as ranges, not precise calculations. A third person narrator could conceivably draw closer to the reader than a first person narrator.

Most importantly, there is no best point of view. All of these points of view are effective in various types of stories.

If you're just getting started, I would encourage you to use either first person or third person limited point of view because they're easy to understand.

However, that shouldn't stop you from experimenting. After all, you'll only get comfortable with other points of view by trying them!

Whatever you choose, be consistent. Avoid the mistakes I mentioned under each point of view.

And above all, have fun!

How about you? Which of the four points of view have you used in your writing? Why did you use it, and what did you like about it? Share in the comments .

Using a point of view you've never used before, write a brief story about a teenager who has just discovered he or she has superpowers.

Make sure to avoid the POV mistakes listed in the article above.

Write for fifteen minutes . When your time is up, post your practice in the Pro Practice Workshop (if you’re not a member yet, you can join here ). And if you post, please be sure to give feedback to your fellow writers.

We can gain just as much value giving feedback as we can writing our own books!

Happy writing!

' src=

Joe Bunting

Joe Bunting is an author and the leader of The Write Practice community. He is also the author of the new book Crowdsourcing Paris , a real life adventure story set in France. It was a #1 New Release on Amazon. Follow him on Instagram (@jhbunting).

Want best-seller coaching? Book Joe here.

How to Write a Memoir: How to Start (and Actually Finish) Your First Draft

Join over 450,000 readers who are saying YES to practice. You’ll also get a free copy of our eBook 14 Prompts :

Popular Resources

Book Writing Tips & Guides Creativity & Inspiration Tips Writing Prompts Grammar & Vocab Resources Best Book Writing Software ProWritingAid Review Writing Teacher Resources Publisher Rocket Review Scrivener Review Gifts for Writers

Books By Our Writers

Beyond the Rail and Other Nightmares

Now, Take Your Idea and Write a Book!

Enter your email to get a free 3-step worksheet and start writing your book in just a few minutes.

You've got it! Just us where to send your guide.

Enter your email to get our free 10-step guide to becoming a writer.

Get the POV Cheatsheet for Writers

Enter your email for a free cheatsheet for the top two point of views!

You've got it! Just us where to send your book.

Enter your first name and email to get our free book, 14 Prompts.

Point of View

Definition of point of view.

Point of view is utilized as a literary device to indicate the angle or perspective from which a story is told. Essentially, point of view refers to the “eyes” of the narrative voice that determine the position or angle of vision from which the story is being relayed. Point of view is one of the most crucial choices made by fiction writers since it governs the reader’s access to the story and determines how much the reader is able to know at any given moment with regard to what is taking place in the narrative.

For example, Gregory Maguire is well-known for his novels that re-tell famous stories using a different point of view. In his work  Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister , the story of Cinderella is told by one of the “ugly stepsisters” herself, rather than a removed fairy tale narrator .

In the lives of children, pumpkins turn into coaches, mice and rats turn into men. When we grow up, we realize it is far more common for men to turn into rats.

By shifting the viewpoint of the narrative voice, the reader is given an entirely different perspective and version of the famous story. This not only makes for an engaging and innovative experience for the reader, but the change in point of view also changes the story itself by presenting otherwise “unseen” information and opinions.

Examples of Commonly Used Points of View

As a literary device, point of view is generally expressed through the use of pronouns. Each has its advantages and limitations. First and third person points of view are far more common than second person point of view in literature. First person narrative allows the writer to establish intimacy with the reader by allowing access to the narrator’s inner thoughts. Third person narrative is flexible in that the writer can focus on more than one character ’s actions and thoughts.

Here are some examples of commonly used points of view:

First Person

In first person point of view, one of the story’s characters is narrating the literary work. This viewpoint is indicated by the use of first person pronouns, including “I,” and the reader assumes that the character is close to the story’s action. First person narrative voice provides the reader an intimate and close look into a character’s thoughts, but the perspective of the story is limited by what the character is able to see and know.

Here are some well-known examples of literary works with first person point of view:

  • The Great Gatsby
  • The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
  • The Yellow Wallpaper

Third Person

With third person point of view, there is a narrative presence telling the story and referring to the characters in the third person, as “he” or “she.” Third person point of view can be omniscient , meaning the narrator can see and know everything within the story, or limited, meaning the narrator is restricted in what they see and know of the story.

Here are some well-known examples of literary works with third person point of view:

  • Lord of the Flies
  • Little Women
  • Fahrenheit 451
  • The Lowland

Second Person

Second person point of view utilizes the pronoun “you” to address the reader and bring them into the action of the story. However, second person point of view is problematic in a couple of ways. First, it is a stylistic choice that is uncommon, especially in novel -length works. In addition, second person point of view can overwhelm the writer and confuse and/or alienate the reader. Most writers avoid constructing a narrative voice through second person point of view.

Difference Between Omniscient and Third Person Limited Point of View

Third person point of view is flexible as a literary device in that a writer can choose between omniscient or limited perspectives for the narrator. An omniscient narrator is aware of and knows everything about the story and its characters. There are no limitations for this narrator in terms of expressing any character’s thoughts, and this includes their own opinions and observations. An omniscient point of view features a narrator who knows more than the characters of a story.

A third person limited narrator utilizes third person storytelling, but is closely “assigned” to one character. Therefore, this limited narrator shares access with the reader to a character’s thoughts, feelings, experiences, etc., but is limited in doing so with other characters in the story. Writers choose third person limited point of view to create a deeper bond between a specific character and the reader.

Writing with Point of View

Writers decide who tells a story and the intended audience for it. When determining point of view as a literary device, the story can be told from the viewpoint of a character who is part of the story or from a narrative perspective that “sees” and knows the characters but is not one of them. It’s important for writers to consider benefits and limitations when deciding point of view, as it is essential for character development and the relationship between the narrative voice and the reader.

In addition, it’s important for writers to establish point of view as soon as possible for the reader so they are aware of whose perspective they are following. Though some writers choose to change point of view, done most often within a novel, the narrative voice should be consistent throughout a particular scene. Otherwise, disrupting the narrative perspective in the middle of a story’s action can be confusing and jarring for the reader. Changing the point of view for a subplot , alternate section, or different chapter of a literary work can be valuable; however, there should be continuity of narrative throughout the course of a story’s scene in consideration of the reader.

Alternating Point of View

Alternating point of view is a complex type of observation or narration. While narrating, he/she can change their position from the first person to the third person or even second person. It depends on the setting , situation, and voice of the characters and their different perspectives. This technique was used very successfully by Kurt Vonnegut or Italo Calvino in their novels with authorial assertion and intervention, such as Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut. Also, the alternating point of view is used for long narration or a chapter-wise, to develop characters and story. It is not used for one sentence or a paragraph.

First Person Point of View as a Protagonist and Common Character

The first person point of view uses first-person pronouns. I, me, mine, etc. The first-person point of view is mostly used in fiction, autobiographies , or semi-autobiographies. The person speaking becomes the center point of the narrative, thus becoming a protagonist of the story most of the time. However, sometimes this person is also a typical narrator when it comes to the big events or significant happenings in history. Such a first-person narrator takes part only as a commoner but describes all the major events and characters through him/her. Usually, they paint the picture of a person, presenting him/her as a protagonist and himself as an ordinary character. Fiction usually adapts this form of narration when they use great heroes from history as protagonists.

Use of Point of View in Sentences

  • He loves to people from the window of his castle. But, such is his life; he is not allowed to step outside. (Third-person point of view)
  • I heard a shrill cry followed by speeding footsteps. I wondered if someone was in trouble. Sadly when I reached the alley, there was no one. (First-person point of view)
  • This is how you prepare a tasty lemonade. You juice the lemons, and you can get more juice by rolling the lemons on the counter using force. (Second-person point of view)
  • Although Jay viewed the group with suspicion when he decided to meet them and said, “I do not suspect you in any way, but we still need to talk.” (Third-person objective point of view)
  • As the children settled into their rooms, Lisa hoped they would sleep peacefully without fear. She silently wished them goodnight before closing the door.”

Examples of Point of View in Literature

Example 1:  invisible man  (ralph ellison).

I was never more hated than when I tried to be honest. Or when, even as just now I’ve tried to articulate exactly what I felt to be the truth. No one was satisfied.

In Ellison’s novel, the protagonist tells his own story from a first-person point of view. This passage reflects both the power of this narrative perspective and its limitations. By telling his own story, the protagonist is able to have a close connection with the reader and directly express his true thoughts, feelings, and ideas. However, due to this restricted form of narration, the reader must rely solely on the viewpoint of the protagonist. This puts a level of responsibility on the reader to determine whether the protagonist is reliable in his narration and to fill in any gaps in the story that are ambiguous or unaddressed in a full manner by the narrator.

Example 2:  The Story of an Hour (Kate Chopin)

She said it over and over under her breath: “free, free, free!” The vacant stare and the look of terror that had followed it went from her eyes. They stayed keen and bright. Her pulses beat fast, and the coursing blood warmed and relaxed every inch of her body.

Chopin’s short story is told through a third-person limited point of view. The narrative perspective is that of Louise Mallard, the protagonist of the story, though she does not relay the narrative herself in the first person. Instead, the narrator relays to the reader Louise’s actions, thoughts, and feelings as she learns of her husband’s supposed death. This is a clever literary choice due to the fact that Louise spends much of her time in the story in a room alone , away from the other characters.

Chopin establishes a relationship between the third-person narrator and the reader in terms of access to Louise’s mind. This is reflected in the passage as the narrator conveys to the reader that Louise feels “free” at the news of her husband’s death. This “freedom” is something that Louise would not have expressed to any character in the story, yet the narrative perspective allows the reader to know and understand her thoughts.

Example 3:  The Death of Ivan Ilych  (Leo Tolstoy)

In reality it was just what is usually seen in the houses of people of moderate means who want to appear rich, and therefore succeed only in resembling others like themselves: there are damasks, dark wood, plants, rugs, and dull and polished bronzes — all the things people of a certain class have in order to resemble other people of that class. His house was so like the others that it would never have been noticed, but to him it all seemed to be quite exceptional.

Tolstoy’s well-known story of Ivan Ilych is told through an omniscient point of view. This passage reflects that the omniscient narrator governs the telling of the story through the information that is presented to the reader and the manner in which that information is relayed. For example, the omniscient narrator describes for the reader the setting of the character’s home by describing the objects inside. This creates an image that allows the reader to picture the scene.

However, the omniscient narrator is also characterizing the setting of the home by inserting opinions about it with phrases such as “who want to appear rich.” This is important because the omniscient narrator’s description and the inserted characterization influences both the reader’s literal image of the scene and their perception of its meaning in terms of an emotional response. As a result, the omniscient narrator holds the power to influence all aspects of a story for a reader–not just the way things look or what events take place, but how the reader should feel about it, Therefore, in response to an omniscient narrator, the reader should be aware of this effect so as to approach this point of view with critical thinking.

Synonyms of Point of View

Some of the words close to the point of view in meanings are opinion, view, attitude , feeling, sentiment, thoughts, ideas, position, perspective, viewpoint, standpoint, outlook, stand, stance, side, or position.

Post navigation

Understanding Point of View

Understanding Point of View

Taught by: Gabriela Pereira

Point of view (or POV) is one of those tricky, technical elements in writing that can be a challenge for many writers. Together with voice, point of view helps establish the narration for your writing, and narration is the crucial link between you (the writer) and your readers.

In this course from DIY MFA's Gabriela Pereira, you will become intimately familiar with each of the major viewpoints. With the help of practical writing exercises in each lesson, you'll understand what it takes to become a master of POVs!

What you'll learn in this course

  • How to write in the 1st Person
  • The differences between 3rd Person Limited and Omniscient
  • The strengths (and dangers) of 2nd Person
  • How to wrangle multiple POVs
  • Epistolary and Journal forms

Brought to you by:

importance of point of view in creative writing

Learn more at DIYMFA.com

What are people saying about this course?

"I immersed myself into this class. I learned a lot. It also surprised me because I thought I already knew all of the points of view. Great class!"

—  Tracey L.

"So well written and informative. I really looked forward to each lesson. Made a dry topic interesting with relevant writing tasks."

"I thought this was one of the best short courses I've done! [...] Will definitely recommend to writer friends!"

Continue learning

People who enjoyed this course also looked at the following:

importance of point of view in creative writing

How to Write a Novel (Premium)

Write a novel in three months in this premium course led by author and ghostwriter Tom Bromley. Join our next class, September 2023.

Taught by Tom Bromley

importance of point of view in creative writing

Poetry: How to Spark Creativity with Verse

Curious about poetry but don’t know where to start? Join us for 10 days of easy poetry exercises and get your creative juices flowing.

Taught by Emma Murf

importance of point of view in creative writing

How to Write Mind-Blowing Fantasy Fiction

Want to become the next Frank Herbert or N.K. Jemisin? With this free 10-day course, you can learn the basics of writing fantasy.

Taught by Campfire

importance of point of view in creative writing

How to Master the 'Show, Don't Tell' Rule

Learn how to follow the golden writing rule in this free 10-day course from the Reedsy team.

Taught by Reedsy

importance of point of view in creative writing

How to Turn Up the Heat in Your Romance

Ready to steam up your romance? Kelly Palmer's free course takes you through the essentials of hot writing: from creating tension to writing appealing sex scenes!

Taught by Kelly Palmer

importance of point of view in creative writing

How to Write an Irresistible Romance

Romance editor Kate Studer presents this amazing course that will get you started on of the most popular genres in publishing.

Taught by Kate Studer

Learn about a new topic

Browse our free publishing courses by category:

Design courses ⭢

Distribution courses ⭢

Editing courses ⭢

Marketing courses ⭢

Publishing courses ⭢

Writing courses ⭢

Join a community of over 1 million authors

Reedsy is more than just a blog. Become a member today to discover how we can help you publish a beautiful book.

Reedsy Marketplace UI

1 million authors trust the professionals on Reedsy, come meet them.

Enter your email or get started with a social account:

NEW REEDSY COURSE

How to Write a Novel

Finish your book in three months

Understanding Point of View in Literature

  • M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
  • B.A., History, Armstrong State University

When you read a story, have you ever thought about who is telling it? That component of story-telling is called the point of view (often abbreviated as POV) of a book is the method and perspective an author uses for conveying the story. Writers use point of view as a way to connect with the reader, and there are various ways in which a point of view can impact the experience of the reader. Read on to learn more about this aspect of storytelling and how it can enhance the emotional impact of the narrative. 

First-Person POV

A "first-person" point of view comes from the narrator of the story, which may be the writer or the main character. The storyline will use personal pronouns, like "I" and "me,"  and can sometimes sound a little bit like reading a personal journal or listening to someone talk. The narrator witnesses events first hand and expresses how it looks and feels from his or her experience. The first-person point of view can also be more than one person and will use "we" when referencing the group. 

Check out this example from " Huckleberry Finn " -

"Tom's most well now, and got his bullet around his neck on a watch-guard for a watch, and is always seeing what time it is, and so there ain't nothing more to write about, and I am rotten glad of it, because if I'd a knowed what a trouble it was to make a book I wouldn't a tackled it, and ain't a-going to no more."

Second Person POV

A second person point of view is seldom used when it comes to novels, which makes sense if you think about it. In second person, the writer speaks directly to the reader. This would be awkward and confusing in that format! But, it's popular in business writing, self-help articles and books, speeches, advertising and even song lyrics. If you are talking to someone about changing careers and giving advice for writing a resume, you might address the reader directly. In fact, this article is written in second person point of view. Check out the introductory sentence of this article, which addresses the reader: "When you read a story, have you ever thought about who is telling it?" 

Third Person POV

The third person is the most common type of narration when it comes to novels. In this point of view, there is an external narrator who is telling the story. The narrator will use pronouns like "he" or "she" or even "they" if they are talking about a group. The omniscient narrator provides an insight to the thoughts, feelings, and impressions of all the characters and events, not just one. We receive information from an all-knowing vantage point—and we even know what’s going on when nobody is around to experience it.

But the narrator can also provide a more objective or dramatic point of view, in which we are told events and allowed to react and have feelings as an observer. In this format, we are not provided the emotions, we experience emotions, based on the events we read about. While this may sound impersonal, it is just the opposite. This is much like observing a film or a play—and we know how powerful that can be!

Which point of view is best?

When determining which of the three points of view to use, it's important to consider what type of story you're writing. If you're telling a story from a personal perspective, such as that of your main character or of your own perspective, you'll want to use the first person. This is the most intimate type of writing, as it is quite personal. If what you're writing about is more informational and is providing the reader with information or instructions, then second-person is best. This is great for cookbooks, self-help books, and educational articles, like this one! If you want to tell a story from a broader point of view, knowing everything about everyone, then the third person is the way to go.  

The importance of point of view

A well-executed point of view is a crucial foundation for any piece of writing. Naturally, the point of view provides the context and backstory you need for the audience to understand the scene, and helps your audience best see your characters and interpret the material in the way you intend. But what some writers don't always realize, is that a solid point of view can actually help drive the crafting of the story. When you take narration and point of view into account, you can decide what details need to be included (an omniscient narrator knows everything, but a first-person narrator is limited to just those experiences) and can bring inspiration for creating drama and emotion. All of which are crucial to creating a quality creative work. 

Article edited by  Stacy Jagodowski

  • Point of View in Grammar and Composition
  • A Guide to All Types of Narration, With Examples
  • 5 Easy Activities for Teaching Point of View
  • How to Write a Great Book Report
  • The Writer's Voice in Literature and Rhetoric
  • Definition and Examples of Narratives in Writing
  • What Is Expository Writing?
  • How to Find the Theme of a Book or Short Story
  • Process Analysis in Composition
  • Latin Verbs: Their Person and Number
  • What Is a Synopsis and How Do You Write One?
  • How to Write a Persuasive Essay
  • Writing a Lead or Lede to an Article
  • Analysis of 'How to Talk to a Hunter' by Pam Houston
  • The Difference Between an Article and an Essay
  • Learn to Write News Stories

IMAGES

  1. Creative Writing: Point-of-View

    importance of point of view in creative writing

  2. What is Point of view in Literature: Definition and Examples

    importance of point of view in creative writing

  3. Point of View: Definition and Examples for the Narrative Path

    importance of point of view in creative writing

  4. What is Point of View? Definition & 8 Types of Point of View

    importance of point of view in creative writing

  5. Writing Point of View: 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th POV (with Examples)

    importance of point of view in creative writing

  6. Point of View Explained: Writing POV Correctly Can Save Your Story

    importance of point of view in creative writing

VIDEO

  1. What’s the point of writing a title, under 10 views is average #youtubesuppression #suppression

  2. Writing & Presentation Skills

  3. #poetry_point #🥺#🥀#writing #writer #hindishayari #poetry #creativewriting #lifechanging

  4. Literature 012 Point of View in Fiction

  5. Wrting the Intro & Paragraph development [A Double-Question Essay]

  6. Importance of Answer Writing & When to Start Writing Answers

COMMENTS

  1. What Is Point of View in Writing, and How Does It Work?

    Write with Grammarly What is point of view? Point of view is the writer's way of deciding who is telling the story to whom. Establishing a clear point of view is important because it dictates how your reader interprets characters, events, and other important details.

  2. Understanding Point of View: How to Choose a POV for Your Story

    Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Aug 30, 2021 • 6 min read. In creative writing, point of view is the eye through which you tell a story. There are three main types of POV, but there's no one best POV that every single bestseller uses. Take a look at the strengths of each POV and decide which one will work best for your own story. In ...

  3. What is Point of View in Creative Writing?

    - Podium School What is Point of View in Creative Writing? Point of View is the perspective from which a narrative is designed and told. Point of view is considered to be the pivotal component in creative writing and literature especially in the work of fiction. In this creative writing lesson, we will learn the following: Table of Contents

  4. Points of View

    1. A key element of any writing is point of view. (If you aren't certain about the differences between first, second, and third-person point of view, read the article at this link. If you're confident in your knowledge of points of view, then continue on to the exercise.) 2. Write at least 250 words in first person POV.

  5. Point of View: The Ultimate Guide to Writing Perspectives

    Point of view (POV) is the narrative perspective from which a story is told. It's the angle from which readers experience the plot, observe the characters' behavior, and learn about their world. In fiction, there are four types of point of view: first person, second person, third person limited, and third person omniscient.

  6. Point of View: What Is It? (With 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th POV Examples)

    Second person point of view, which uses the pronoun you, is one of the least used POVs in literature because it places the reader in the hot seat and is hard to manage for a full-length novel. It's used in experimental literature to try out new styles of writing. In the wrong hands, it just feels gimmicky.

  7. Point of View: The Ultimate Guide

    POV is as important to a story as is your plot, characters, setting, etc. What is point of view in writing? Point of view tells your reader who is important in your story. It affects the relationship your reader builds with your characters. And, if done poorly, the point of view can ruin an otherwise perfect story.

  8. Complete Guide to Different Types of Point of View: Examples of Point

    Writing Complete Guide to Different Types of Point of View: Examples of Point of View in Writing Written by MasterClass Last updated: Sep 1, 2021 • 8 min read While there are numerous ways to employ point of view in fiction, it's good to familiarize yourself with the basics of this literary device. Learn From the Best

  9. Point of view: a complete guide

    Point of view (POV) applies when you're talking or writing, but you'll most likely see it referred to in fiction writing. The point of view you choose will greatly affect the storytelling process and narrative. Point of view is essentially the perspective from which the story or narrative is being told.

  10. Point of View

    Point of view refers to the perspective that the narrator holds in relation to the events of the story. The three primary points of view are first person, in which the narrator tells a story from their own perspective ("I went to the store"); second person , in which the narrator tells a story about you, the reader or viewer ("You went to the ...

  11. Why Point of View Is So Important for Novel Writers

    Each viewpoint allows certain freedoms in narration while limiting or denying others. Your goal in selecting a point of view is not simply finding a way to convey information, but telling it the right way—making the world you create understandable and believable. ( Playing With Point of View)

  12. Point of View

    The variables of point of view in creative nonfiction can be just as numerous and just as effective as those used in fiction and poetry, perhaps even more so since the point (or points) of view in which we choose to tell our stories could, in fact, be the point of the story as well. As the wise Obi-Wan so succinctly tells us, truth is not a ...

  13. Perspective in Creative Writing: Who Is Telling Your Story

    Make sure your point of view characters are the ones directly involved in the conflict, unless they are offering a unique perspective. Markus Zukas's The Book Thief is narrated by Death, but the protagonist is a young girl named Liesel. Death is the point of view character: He is the lens through which the reader perceives the story.

  14. Point of View in Writing: The Simple Guide for Authors

    This point of view uses "you, your" construction, and the makes "you," the reader, become the protagonist. Though rare in fiction and far more popular in nonfiction, it's been said that because it plunges the reader into the action of the story, second person can bring a sense of immediacy to a novel. I wouldn't dare attempt it and ...

  15. Definition and Examples of Point of View

    Point of View and Persona "[T]hese issues of point of view really point to one of the most fundamental skills in creative nonfiction, to writing not as the 'author' but from a constructed persona, even if that persona is taking on the 'I' to tell the story. That persona is formed by time, mood, and distance from the events that are being narrated.

  16. Creative Writing: What It Is and Why It Matters

    Creative writing is important because: It helps us express ourselves in ways we may not be able to do with other forms of communication. It allows us to explore our creativity and think outside the box. It can help us better understand our emotions by exploring them through storytelling or poetry.

  17. Mastering Point of View in Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

    Point of view is a crucial element of storytelling that can greatly affect how readers experience and interpret a story. In literature, point of view refers to the perspective from which a story is narrated or presented to the reader.

  18. The Importance Of The Point Of View

    The Importance Of The Point Of View One of the most critical decisions any writer has to make is whose point of view they are going to tell their story from. The whole relationship between the writer and their story is set when they make this decision.

  19. Types of Point of View: The Ultimate Guide to First Person and Third

    For a fiction writer, point of view filters everything in your story. Everything in your story must come from a point of view. Which means if you get it wrong, your entire story is damaged. For example, I've personally read and judged thousands of stories for literary contests, and I've found point of view mistakes in about twenty percent of them.

  20. Point of View

    Second person point of view utilizes the pronoun "you" to address the reader and bring them into the action of the story. However, second person point of view is problematic in a couple of ways. First, it is a stylistic choice that is uncommon, especially in novel-length works.In addition, second person point of view can overwhelm the writer and confuse and/or alienate the reader.

  21. Exploring Perspectives: Understanding Point of View in Creative Writing

    Mastering Point of View: Elevate Your Creative Writing Skills • Join us in this video as we explore the importance of point of view in creative writing. Disc...

  22. Understanding Point of View (Free Course)

    Understanding Point of View. Taught by: Gabriela Pereira. Start this course. Point of view (or POV) is one of those tricky, technical elements in writing that can be a challenge for many writers. Together with voice, point of view helps establish the narration for your writing, and narration is the crucial link between you (the writer) and your ...

  23. Understanding Point of View in Literature

    Writers use point of view as a way to connect with the reader, and there are various ways in which a point of view can impact the experience of the reader. Read on to learn more about this aspect of storytelling and how it can enhance the emotional impact of the narrative. First-Person POV