Narrative Writing: Reader

Narrative Writing: Reader

Understanding the Reader

  • The reader is a crucial aspect of the narrative writing process. The final audience of your work must not be overlooked.
  • Actively consider how your choices as a writer will affect the reader. They should be aware, engaged, and invested throughout the narrative.
  • A reader’s understanding can be influenced by various narrative techniques.

Types of Readers

  • The intended reader, in one sense, is the person for whom you’re writing, such as a family member, a teacher, or an examiner.
  • In another sense, the intended reader can refer to the ‘type’ of reader you aim to attract with your writing style. For example, you might target teenagers, dystopian novel enthusiasts, or fans of mystery stories.

Guiding the Reader

  • Foreshadowing and suspense building are effective tools to keep readers engaged and to forecast future plot developments.
  • Use of descriptive language and imagery feeds the reader’s imagination and integrates them into the world of your narrative.
  • Dialogue and character development help readers understand various characters’ intentions, personalities, and relationships.

Reader Reactions

  • The emotional reaction of the reader is a key element in narrative writing. This can range from joy, anticipation, and suspense to fear, surprise, or sadness.
  • The reader’s emotional response often parallels the characters’ reactions. However, you might occasionally want to surprise your readers by defying their expectations.

Reviewing Feedback

  • Get responses from sample readers. Noticing their reactions can help you understand the impact of your narrative better.
  • A variety of feedback can be useful. Different readers may have different perspectives. However, always consider what is beneficial for your work.
  • Listen to community feedback, which offers wider opinions. Consider joining workshops or online communities to get feedback from a larger, diverse audience.

Evolving as a Writer

  • With experience, you’ll get better at anticipating and tapping into your readers’ responses.
  • Learn from audience reactions. Each story is an opportunity to improve your skills and writing techniques.
  • Reading widely can help understand different styles, genres and writing techniques, inspiring your own creative output.