The Benefits and Drawbacks of Writing in Third Person Point of View
When writing a piece of content, one of the most important decisions a writer must make is the point of view they will use. A writer can choose to write in the first, second, or third person point of view, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of writing in the third person point of view.
What is Third Person Point of View?
In third person point of view, the writer uses pronouns such as “he,” “she,” “it,” or “they” to refer to the characters or subjects in the content. The writer is not a character in the story or piece of content but is instead an omniscient observer.
The Benefits of Writing in Third Person Point of View
One of the main benefits of writing in third person point of view is the level of objectivity it provides. Since the writer is not a character in the story or content, they can maintain a more neutral perspective and avoid appearing biased. This is particularly useful for academic writing, journalism, or other types of non-fiction content where presenting facts objectively is crucial.
Another benefit of writing in third person point of view is the flexibility it provides. Third person narration allows the writer to switch between different characters’ perspectives, and this can be particularly useful when it comes to character development, storytelling, and plot twists. It can also allow the writer to explore themes and ideas from different perspectives.
The Drawbacks of Writing in Third Person Point of View
One of the main drawbacks of writing in third person point of view is the lack of intimacy it can provide. Since the writer is not a character in the story or content, the reader may feel less emotionally connected to the characters or subjects. This can be a disadvantage in creative writing, where intimacy and emotional connection are often crucial.
Another drawback of writing in third person point of view is the potential for confusion. Switching between multiple characters’ perspectives can be jarring for the reader, and it can be challenging to maintain clarity and smooth transitions between perspectives.
Examples of Third Person Point of View
An excellent example of third person point of view can be seen in Virginia Woolf’s novel, “To the Lighthouse.” The story follows several characters, including Mr. and Mrs. Ramsay, their daughter, and the guests staying with them. Woolf alternates between the different characters’ points of view, providing the reader with an intimate look into their thoughts and motivations.
In contrast, J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series uses third person point of view more objectively to tell the story of Harry and his friends’ adventures at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This allows Rowling to provide a comprehensive picture of the story’s world and plot without emphasizing the emotional connections between the characters.
Conclusion
Writing in the third person point of view has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type of content the writer is creating. The level of objectivity, flexibility, and the ability to switch between multiple character’s perspectives can be useful, but the potential for a lack of intimacy and confusion can also be disadvantages. Ultimately, the writer should choose the point of view that best fits their content and goals.
