Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages of Third Person Objective Point of View
When it comes to writing, choosing the right point of view can be critical. Among the various options available, the third person objective point of view holds a unique place. In this perspective, the narrator remains neutral and does not delve into the character’s thoughts or feelings. The following article dives into the advantages and disadvantages of employing the third person objective point of view in different types of writing.
Advantages of Third Person Objective Point of View
Using the third person objective point of view has several advantages that make it a preferred choice in many types of literature. Some of these benefits are:
1. Promotes Objectivity: The third person objective point of view is excellent at relaying information objectively. Writers can steer clear of using their biases and opinions, making it a great tool for authors writing non-fiction or technical content.
2. Keeps the Focus on Plot and Action: The third person objective point of view leaves no room for character introspection, hence keeping readers focused on the plot and action. This style can be particularly useful in action or thriller genres where the focus should be kept on fast-paced events.
3. Removes the Distractions: By removing the character’s thoughts and feelings, writers using the third person objective point of view can avoid distractions. Readers can concentrate on the story’s objective facts, reducing any ambiguity.
Disadvantages of Third Person Objective Point of View
While the third person objective point of view has specific advantages, it is not without its disadvantages. Some of these challenges include:
1. Lacks Emotional Connection: Due to the inability to acquaint readers with the characters’ thoughts and feelings, the third person objective point of view can lead to a lack of emotional connection between readers and characters.
2. Limits Character Development: Not being able to dive into a character’s psyche can limit the writer’s ability to present complex characters. This limitation can make using the third person objective point of view for character-driven narratives challenging.
3. Can Result in Detachment: Without the characters’ thoughts and emotions, readers may find themselves feeling detached from the story. This distance can be particularly challenging when trying to convey an emotional or sentimental moment.
Examples of Third Person Objective Point of View in Action
To demonstrate the practical application of the third person objective point of view, here are a few examples:
Example 1: In The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, the narrator merely describes the old fisherman’s actions without going into his inner thoughts or feelings.
Example 2: In The Lady with the Dog by Anton Chekhov, the narrator focuses on the exterior events and lets the readers draw their conclusions about the protagonist’s thoughts and feelings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the third person objective point of view has both advantages and disadvantages. While its objectivity can be useful in certain types of writing like non-fiction, the lack of emotional connection or depth may impede character development in fictional works. Ultimately, the right point of view depends on the writer’s goals and message they want to convey.
