Exploring the Pros and Cons of Writing in 3rd Person Objective
Writing in the third-person objective point of view has been a controversial topic for many years. While some writers swear by it as the most objective and unbiased form of writing, others find it distancing and lacking in emotional depth. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of writing in the third person objective point of view.
What is the third person objective point of view?
The third-person objective point of view is a narration style in which the writer tells a story without revealing the thoughts or feelings of any of the characters. The writer describes what is happening, but does not give any insight into the motives or emotions of the characters. For example:
Mary picked up the knife and stabbed John. He fell to the floor, clutching his chest. Blood flowed from the wound.
As we can see, the writer is not telling us what Mary was feeling when she picked up the knife, or what John was thinking as he was stabbed. The writer is only describing the actions that are taking place.
The Pros
One of the biggest advantages of writing in third person objective is that it creates a sense of detachment and neutrality. By not revealing any character’s thoughts or feelings, the writer can present a completely objective account of events. This can be especially useful in news reporting or scientific writing, where objectivity is key.
Another advantage of writing in third person objective is that it allows the writer to create a sense of mystery and suspense. Since the reader is not privy to the thoughts and feelings of the characters, they must rely solely on the actions and dialogue to piece together the story.
The Cons
While there are certainly advantages to writing in third person objective, there are also some disadvantages. One of the biggest complaints about this style of writing is that it can feel cold and detached. By not delving into the emotions and motivations of the characters, the reader may struggle to connect with the story on an emotional level.
Another potential problem with third person objective is that it can be difficult to maintain over the course of a long story. Without any insight into the thoughts and feelings of the characters, it can be tough to keep readers engaged and invested in the story.
Conclusion
In conclusion, writing in third person objective is a valid narration style that has its pros and cons. While it can be useful in creating an objective and unbiased account of events, it can also feel distant and lacking in emotional depth. Whether or not to use this style of writing ultimately depends on the needs of the story and the preferences of the writer. By carefully considering the pros and cons, writers can make an informed decision about whether or not to use third person objective in their work.
