Choosing First or Third Person for Novel Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing First or Third Person for Novel Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The narrative perspective of a novel is a critical choice that can significantly impact its reception and success. Traditional wisdom states that, while either perspective is acceptable, third person is the preferred choice for publishers. Let's explore the nuances of using first or third person in your novel writing journey.

The Influence of Perspective on Publishing

When it comes to choosing between first or third person, there are several factors to consider. While the choice ultimately depends on the story you're telling, it's important to note that most publishers lean towards third person. However, if you have a compelling story rooted in first person, there are no hard and fast rules.

Notable Exceptions: Second Person Perspective

Never, ever write in the second person. This perspective is almost exclusively found in the hands of literary masters like Jay McInerney, whose Bright Lights, Big City garnered critical acclaim despite Hollywood's failure to replicate its success on screen.

Reader and Author Comfort

Your comfort level and the story you're telling are paramount. Consider the following:

Demographic and Genre: Understand your target audience and the prevailing narrative style within your genre. For instance, erotica often performs better with first person due to its intimate nature. Research and Reading Habits: Study books in your chosen genre to see which perspective is more common. If you're comfortable and often read in first person, it may be easier for you to write in that style. Narrative Perspective: Writing in third person close can offer a broader view, while first person is more intimate but more singular in perspective.

The Pros and Cons of First Person vs. Third Person

Both perspectives have their strengths:

First Person

Intimacy and Conveyance: When you write in first person, the reader experiences the story through the character's thoughts, actions, and reactions. This can be incredibly powerful for direct and honest storytelling. Limitations: However, it can be challenging to explore multiple perspectives within the same novel, as the entire story is limited to the one character's viewpoint.

Third Person

Multiple Perspectives: Third person offers the flexibility to delve into the lives and thoughts of multiple characters, providing a richer, more detailed narrative. Allegiance to the Story: This perspective allows for a broader and more comprehensive view of the story, making it easier to handle complex plots and multiple viewpoints.

Consistency and Rewriting

No matter which perspective you choose, maintaining consistency is crucial. If you find that you need to rewrite a section due to inconsistency, don't lose heart. Rewriting can be a great opportunity to refine your narrative and make it even stronger.

Choosing Based on the Story, Not Trends

Nothing should be based on publication trends. Trends change rapidly, and what is popular today may not be tomorrow. Focus on telling a compelling story that resonates with your audience and your unique voice.

Word Count Considerations

For a commercially viable novel, aim for at least 70,000 words. Regardless of perspective, ensuring that your novel is long enough can improve its chances of success in the market.

Ultimately, the choice between first or third person should be driven by what feels natural for your story. If you find it easier to write in first person, or if it's the best way to convey the intimacy and emotional depth of your narrative, go for it. Similarly, if third person offers you the flexibility and depth needed for a more intricate storyline, don't hesitate to embrace it.