Understanding Third Person Limited Point of View in Writing
As a writer, the point of view you choose to tell your story from has a great impact on how the readers connect with your characters and the overall story. There are multiple types of points of view (POV) in writing, and one of the most commonly used ones is the third person limited point of view. In this article, we will delve into what this POV is, how it works, and how to use it effectively in your writing.
What is Third Person Limited Point of View?
Third person limited point of view is a narrative mode where the reader looks into the mind of only one character at any given time, but the perspective is still from a third person omniscient point of view. In simpler terms, the author describes the events through the eyes of a single character, but at the same time is not limited to that one character’s thoughts or feelings. This style creates a sense of distance while still allowing readers to get a deeper understanding of that character’s personality.
How Does Third Person Limited Point of View Work?
Third person limited point of view works by restricting the narration to the thoughts and feelings of a single character, usually the protagonist. The author can only describe what that character sees, hears, thinks or feels, but the readers are still able to grasp the whole story. This style of narration allows for deeper character development and creates an opportunity to showcase the character’s emotions and inner turmoil. At the same time, it allows the writer to maintain a structure to the story and guide the readers to the main plot points.
Examples of Third Person Limited Point of View
A popular example of a book written in the third person limited point of view is “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. The story is narrated through the eyes of Scout, a young girl who gives the reader a peek into her mind and experiences. The author uses this POV to explore the protagonist’s point of view, while still keeping the narration objective and detached. Another great example is “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, where Amy and Nick Dunne’s thoughts are the only ones shared with the reader, creating a sense of suspense and anticipation for what comes next.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Third Person Limited Point of View
There are advantages and disadvantages to using third person limited point of view. On the one hand, this style of writing allows you to get into the mind of a single character and develop them in great detail. It also allows the writer to build suspense, as the readers have to maneuver through the story with the same information as the protagonist. At the same time, it can be limiting for the reader, as they see only one side of the narrative and may miss out on important details from other characters.
How to Use Third Person Limited Point of View Effectively
If you decide to use third person limited point of view in your writing, there are a few things you should consider. First, choose a character whose thoughts and feelings you want to convey to the readers. It should be someone who is relatable and interesting enough to hold the reader’s attention. Second, use the POV to build the character and their story arc throughout the narrative, by presenting their inner struggles and motivations. Finally, remember to balance the character’s thoughts with the action of the story, to ensure that it does not become a monotonous internal monologue.
Conclusion
Third person limited point of view is an effective way to narrate a story through the eyes of a single character, while still allowing the writer to maintain a certain level of detachment. It allows for deep character development and adds a layer of suspense and anticipation for the reader. Although it does have its limitations, it can be a powerful tool in any writer’s arsenal if used correctly.
