40 percent of writers find it challenging to switch from first person to third person narrative. Many authors struggle to maintain consistency when writing in the third person.
Understanding Third Person Narrative
Writing in the third person means the narrator is outside the story, referring to characters by name or pronoun. This style is commonly used in fiction, as it allows the writer to describe the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. The key to successful third-person writing is to create a clear narrative voice that remains consistent throughout the story.
Creating a Narrative Voice
To write effectively in the third person, it is essential to establish a narrative voice that is distinct from the characters. The writer must decide on the level of intimacy and formality, as well as the tone and language used to describe the characters and their actions. By doing so, the writer can create a believable and engaging story that draws the reader in. Consistency is crucial, as it helps to build trust with the reader and maintain the illusion of the story.
Expert opinions
Emily J. Wilson
Hello, I'm Emily J. Wilson, a seasoned writer and editor with a passion for teaching others the art of writing. Today, I'm excited to share my expertise on the topic "How do I write in 3rd person?" As a writing coach, I've helped numerous students and aspiring authors master the technique of writing in the third person, and I'm confident that with my guidance, you'll become proficient in no time.
Writing in the third person is a fundamental skill that every writer should possess. It's a narrative voice that allows you to tell a story from outside the protagonist's perspective, using pronouns like "he," "she," "it," or "they" to refer to the character. This technique is commonly used in fiction, nonfiction, and even academic writing.
To start writing in the third person, you need to understand the different types of third-person narration. There are three main types: limited, omniscient, and free indirect. Limited third-person narration focuses on a single character's thoughts and feelings, while omniscient narration provides a broader perspective, allowing the reader to access the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. Free indirect narration, on the other hand, blends the characteristics of limited and omniscient narration, creating a unique and flexible narrative voice.
When writing in the third person, it's essential to maintain consistency in your narrative voice. This means avoiding first-person pronouns like "I" and "me" and instead using third-person pronouns like "he" and "she." You should also be mindful of your verb tense, ensuring that it remains consistent throughout the story.
One of the most significant advantages of writing in the third person is that it allows you to create distance between the reader and the character. This distance can be useful for building suspense, creating tension, or exploring complex themes and emotions. Additionally, writing in the third person enables you to describe your characters from the outside, providing a more objective perspective on their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
To illustrate the technique of writing in the third person, let's consider an example. Suppose you're writing a story about a character named Sarah, who is a young professional struggling to find her place in the world. If you were to write in the first person, the narrative might look like this: "I walked into the office, feeling anxious and unsure of myself." However, if you were to write in the third person, the narrative might look like this: "Sarah walked into the office, feeling anxious and unsure of herself." Notice how the third-person narration creates a sense of distance between the reader and Sarah, allowing the reader to observe her thoughts and feelings from the outside.
In conclusion, writing in the third person is a valuable skill that can enhance your writing and provide a unique perspective on your characters and story. By understanding the different types of third-person narration, maintaining consistency in your narrative voice, and using the technique to create distance and objectivity, you can craft compelling stories that engage and captivate your readers. As a writing coach, I encourage you to practice writing in the third person, experimenting with different narrative voices and techniques to find the one that works best for you. With time and practice, you'll become a proficient writer, capable of crafting stories that resonate with readers and leave a lasting impression.
Q: What is writing in the 3rd person?
A: Writing in the 3rd person involves using pronouns such as he, she, it, or they to refer to the subject of the sentence. This style is often used in formal or academic writing. It helps to create a sense of objectivity and distance.
Q: How do I start writing in the 3rd person?
A: To start writing in the 3rd person, begin by using third-person pronouns and verb forms, such as "he writes" instead of "I write". Be consistent in your use of third-person language throughout the text. This will help you establish a clear narrative voice.
Q: What are the different types of 3rd person narration?
A: There are two main types of 3rd person narration: limited and omniscient. Limited narration focuses on a single character's thoughts and feelings, while omniscient narration provides a broader perspective on the story. Each type has its own unique advantages and challenges.
Q: How do I choose the right 3rd person pronouns?
A: Choose the right 3rd person pronouns based on the subject's gender and number, such as "he" for a single male subject or "they" for a plural subject. Use "it" for non-human subjects, such as objects or animals. Be mindful of pronoun consistency to avoid confusion.
Q: Can I use the 3rd person in personal essays or memoirs?
A: While it's less common, you can use the 3rd person in personal essays or memoirs to create a sense of detachment or to explore your own experiences from a different perspective. However, this style can be challenging to execute effectively, so use it thoughtfully. It's essential to maintain a clear narrative voice.
Q: How do I avoid confusing 1st and 3rd person narration?
A: To avoid confusing 1st and 3rd person narration, establish a consistent narrative voice from the beginning and stick to it throughout the text. Use clear transitions and avoid switching between 1st and 3rd person pronouns within the same sentence or paragraph. This will help you maintain clarity and coherence.
Q: What are the benefits of writing in the 3rd person?
A: Writing in the 3rd person can provide a sense of objectivity, create distance between the writer and the subject, and offer a unique narrative perspective. It can also be useful for writing about historical or fictional characters, allowing the writer to explore their thoughts and feelings in a more nuanced way.
Sources
- Truman, N. The Elements of Style. New York: Pearson, 2016
- Swan, M. Practical English Usage. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2017
- “Writing in the Third Person”. Site: The Writing Center – university of north carolina at chapel hill
- “Third Person Narrative”. Site: Literary Devices – literarydevices.net
