Point of View and the Narrator Mr. Adkins

The Author and Audience Why is the narrator’s point of view important? – Helps audience analyze the author’s purpose for choosing a certain narrator or “story-teller” to communicate the events of a story A reader must get inside the author’s head! – Helps audience identify how the narrator’s point of view/perspective influences the reading experience Writers don’t randomly choose their narrator, they want to connect with you! Bring you to their world!

While Reading, Ask… Who is this person or voice speaking to me? Why would the writer choose to tell the story this way? Think about it… In real life, when a friend tells you about a funny or scary event that happened to them or someone else, your attitude and opinion depends on… Your friend’s personality. Are they honest or maybe dramatic? Do they exaggerate? Did your friend actually witness the event? How much do they know about what happened?

Most Common Points of View First Person Author narrates using the voice of a character in the story – In a way, the author becomes a character The writer adopts the character’s speech, personality, and experiences. The first person narrator/character usually has an impact on the action of the story Story is told using personal pronouns – “ I” and “We” Third Person Author uses a non-invasive narrator Acts as an observer outside of the story Uses pronouns “He”, “She”, or “They” Two Types… Limited Only reveals what the main character knows, thinks, and feels. “Limited” to following ONE character Unlike first person, the narrator has more freedom of voice (ex. descriptions, outside opinions, language) Omniscient Knows thoughts, feelings, and actions of ALL characters in a story An all-knowing voice overlooking the entire “anthill” Ability to use tools like “dramatic irony” where audience and narrator may know future conflict unknown to main character

For Example… First Person: While reading, ask… What would this story gain/lose if told in third person point of view?

Your turn! Begin a brief story (about 5 sentences) based on the picture provided BEFORE YOU START! 1 st Choose a voice to use as your “storyteller” – You can think of a celebrity, family member, fictional character, someone totally new 2 nd Choose the best point of view for your voice – first person, third person limited, or third person omniscient 3 rd Imagine how your “storyteller”/narrator would feel about the scene. – How would they speak? (Are they funny, rude, brave, or loving?) – What is their attitude? (nervous, confused, cheerful, etc.) IN YOUR STORY, ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS: – Where is this taking place? (Provide a short description of what it looks like) – Who are your characters? (You may choose to have one or several) – How did your character/characters get there? – What will happen next? (Imagine a problem or discovery just around the corner)