Why First Person Viewpoint is a Powerful Narrative Tool
First person viewpoint is a writing technique used in storytelling where the narrator tells the story from their own perspective, using pronouns such as “I” and “me”. It’s a popular style used in literature, film, and other forms of media as it allows the audience to connect with the protagonist on a more personal level. In this article, we’ll discuss the power of using first person viewpoint as a narrative tool.
The Art of Immersion
Using first person viewpoint in storytelling can have a powerful impact on the reader or audience. By immersing the audience in the character’s thoughts and emotions, the audience can connect with the narrative on a deep level. They feel as if they are experiencing the story themselves, which can make the plot more compelling and memorable.
Consider the example of J.D. Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye. The novel is written from the perspective of Holden Caulfield, a teenage boy struggling with depression and an uncertain future. Through the use of first person viewpoint, readers are able to enter into Holden’s mind and experience his emotions, struggles, and challenges. This creates a more intimate connection between the reader and protagonist, allowing readers to connect with the story on a more emotional level.
Additionally, when an author uses the first person viewpoint, it allows them to create a unique narrative voice for the character, which in turn makes the work more complex. This is apparent in works such as William Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury, where each of the four sections is narrated by a different character in the first person viewpoint. By changing the narrator, the reader is not only exposed to different perspectives, but also to different writing styles, tones, and voices.
Realism and Relatability
Another benefit of using first person viewpoint is that it can make the story more relatable and realistic. By providing direct access to the protagonist’s thoughts, emotions, and experiences, the audience can better connect with the character’s struggles and relate them to their own lives.
Take, for example, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. The story is told from the perspective of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in a racially divided Alabama town during the Great Depression. By using first person viewpoint, readers are able to experience the racial tension and injustice of the time period firsthand. Additionally, Scout’s innocence and curiosity adds a relatable element to the story, drawing readers in and making them care about the characters even more.
The Limits of First Person Viewpoint
Despite the benefits of using first person viewpoint, there are also some drawbacks to consider. First and foremost, the reader’s knowledge is limited to what the narrator knows, sees, and experiences. This means that the reader may not have access to important information that could be relevant to the story.
Additionally, first person viewpoint relies heavily on the narrator’s voice, which can limit the story’s scope. The reader might miss important perspectives, plot points, or other creative techniques that could be used to develop the story.
The Bottom Line
First person viewpoint can be a powerful narrative tool for writers looking to develop their characters and immerse their readers in their stories. By allowing the audience to connect with the protagonist on a personal level, first person viewpoint creates a more emotional and relatable story. However, writers should be aware of the limitations of this technique and use it appropriately to enhance their stories.
