Understanding the Narrative Perspective: What is Second Person Point of View?
If you’ve ever read a book or watched a movie or play, you’re familiar with the concept of narrative perspective. Simply put, this is the point of view or angle from which the story is being told. Narrative perspective can be categorized into first person, second person, or third person.
In this article, we’ll be focusing on second-person point of view (POV). Specifically, we’ll explore what it is, how it works, and some examples in literature and media.
What is Second Person Point of View?
Second-person POV is when the narrator refers to the protagonist of the story as ‘you’. The reader or audience becomes a character in the story who is experiencing the events unfold. This style of writing may sound unusual at first, but it’s an effective way to create an immersive narrative.
It’s important to note that second-person POV is not commonly used in traditional literature because it can be challenging to maintain consistency. However, it’s more frequently used in interactive fiction, adventure games, and other forms of media where the player or user can control the story’s outcome.
How Does Second Person Point of View Work?
The use of ‘you’ in second-person POV allows the reader to become a character in the story. This immersion can help build tension and engagement with the plot, making it more appealing for readers looking to experience the story on a personal level.
Furthermore, second-person POV can be employed to create a sense of intimacy between the reader and the protagonist, as the reader is made to feel like an integral part of the story. This intimacy can lead to empathy, making the story more memorable and impactful on the reader.
Examples of Second Person Point of View
One of the most famous examples of second-person POV is the choose-your-own-adventure book series published in the 1980s. The reader could select their own choices that would in turn affect the story’s outcome. This style of writing allowed the reader to become an active participant in the story itself.
Another example is the novel “Bright Lights, Big City” by Jay McInerney, where the entire book is written in second-person POV. By addressing the protagonist using ‘you’, the book’s narrator creates an intimate portrayal of the protagonist’s life and struggles. This distinctive narrative style helped cement the book’s position as a literary classic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, second-person POV is a technique used by writers to create an immersive and engaging narrative. Though it can be challenging to maintain consistency, when done correctly, second-person POV can be an effective tool for storytelling. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply a reader interested in narrative perspective, understanding second-person POV will enhance your appreciation of the stories you encounter.
