For some reason, point of view, also known as narrative point of view or viewpoint comes up quite frequently during discussions between writers, and as I've noticed when I make a trip to certain forums, boards, and circles, the topic can actually grow quite heated.
Two of the most FAQs regarding point of view seem to be:
1. "Which POV is best?"
followed by...
2. "Why should I (or shouldn't) I use a certain POV?"
I have a very definite opinion on the above questions, but before I share that with you, I'd like to discuss the three most discussed viewpoints, and their definitions.
1. First person point of view (or first person narrative): Readers are given a first-hand account of a story's events. The story is narrated by one person, normally the book's main character.
If a writer chooses to use first person POV, s/he needs to keep in mind that ONLY the storyteller knows what is occurring, what has occurred, and what MIGHT occur. Unless the protagonist is a psychic, he will not be able to see into the minds of his fellow characters. First person POV is extremely limiting, but I believe it can be used very effectively for certain stories.
I have heard first person POV described as an "up close and personal" technique, and I agree with that. Many writers (and I'm one of them) agree that this POV is really effective when used in ghost stories, mysteries (especially those narrated by a detective), confessionals, and gothics. First person narrative became widely recognized when the gothic romance novel was born.
2. Second person point of view (or second person narrative): Readers are essentially drawn INTO the story, often becoming a part of it. The word "you" is a common theme throughout second person POV. For example: You are walking down a dim corridor when a bright light suddenly appears in the distance.
Some writers choose to blend first and second POVS throughout their story, using "I" versus "you", in emotional comparisons. When a writer does this, the reader AND the narrator are both characters in the book. Normally, although not always, second person POV is used in a non-fiction setting. In a fiction atmosphere, second person viewpoint was used when Choose your Own Adventure were popular. As a child, I was a huge fan of those, but as an adult, I do not want to be pulled into a time, place, or setting that I'm unfamiliar and/or uncomfortable with, and then be told how I feel or what I should do. And as a writer, I am strictly anti-second person POV. The concept can be awkward and tricky to pull off, and my advice to fledgling writers? Avoid it.
3. Third person point of view (or third person narrative): Readers are given the opportunity to look into every character's lives; they become privy to their actions, thoughts, and observations as an unknown and omnipotent narrator tells the story using character names and pronouns such as "he", "she", "they", and "it".
Generally, third person point of view gives the writer a lot of flexibility. It is a limitless viewpoint, and the one most commonly used.
So, which is the RIGHT POV to use when penning a story?
Second person narrative aside, when it comes to viewpoints, I don't believe there is a "right" or "better" narrative to use when a writer is telling a story. I think both methods are very effective, but a POV choice should fit the manuscript and writing style.
If I am writing a very complex and multi-faceted novel with a large character population, then normally, I will use third person narrative. However, I enjoy writing in the mystery genre, and my detective tales, which feature PI Frances Miller (who readers will meet at a later date), are ALWAYS written in first person narrative. Readers don't need to know anything about the characters until Frances snoops around and divulges their information. In this way, my reader can follow Frances through dark alleys and into smoke-filled pool halls, sharing the adventure with her. These books revolve around Frances' world, and only she knows that place. Because of this, I would not be comfortable with some unknown Peeping Tom attempting to tell her stories.
Another popular argument is that first person narrative shows agents/editors/publishers that a writer is a mere novice.
I highly disagree, and I'm certain that Ernest Hemingway (The Sun Also Rises), Emily Bronte (Wuthering Heights), and Ayn Rand (Anthem) would concur. Viewpoint, in my opinion, has nothing to do with ability or talent. If someone is a good writer, s/he will be able to tell a great story through anyone's point of view.
The POV truth is this: third person narrative simply grew in popularity, but now that first person POV is making a reappearance on book shelves, I would say either viewpoint is just fine. Unless...
...a writer is explicitly TOLD to use a particular POV. If that's the case, then disregard my opinion and do as you're told.
Some editors of both small and large publishing houses have a preference when it comes to POV. Opinions are objective, of course, but when it comes to "breaking in", I strongly suggest a writer follow the guidelines set before them. The most important thing for a writer to remember is that s/he is presenting a piece of work, and this should be done in a professional manner. If an editor specifically requests third person narrative only, a writer should follow the criteria. Don't attempt to show them what you can do; show them what they want to see.
I recently read this piece of advice from a popular online crime magazine that is no open for submissions: "Please follow our guidelines carefully, and, if you are going to break the rules, DO IT WELL!"
