Narrative Writing: Purpose

Narrative Writing: Understanding its Purpose

Fundamentals for Narrative Writing

Narrative writing is a literary craft centred on telling a story, typically following a protagonist as they face various challenges and reach a resolution.
It should incorporate strong elements of storytelling such as characters, plot, conflict, setting, point of view, and theme.

Crafting Engaging Plots

The central plot should be intriguing for the readers, introducing a problem or conflict in the beginning that keeps the reader’s curiosity piqued.
Developing the plot throughout the narrative is vital. A compelling plot keeps the reader engaged and creates a satisfactory resolution that ties up the loose ends.

Creating Believable Characters

Characters play a significant role in narrative writing. Strong character development ensures that readers genuinely care about what happens to them.
Make your characters authentic and three-dimensional by giving them distinctive personalities, express their emotions, and show their motivations.

Establishing Setting and Atmosphere

Setting is crucial in narrative writing because it creates the story’s backdrop and influences the characters’ attitudes and behaviours.
The setting, whether a bustling city or a tranquil forest, should be described vividly to set the atmosphere and enhance the reader’s experience.

Implementing Point of View

The point of view you choose for your narrative will influence how the readers perceive your story. The three common perspectives are first-person (“I”), second-person (“You”), and third-person (“He, She, It”).
The choice of point of view will dictate the depth of character inner thoughts you can explore, and provide a unique angle to present your story.

Integrating Themes

Your narrative should convey a deeper message or theme. Common themes include love, betrayal, friendship, death, and survival.
The theme acts as the underpinning of your entire story, tying together various elements of the narrative.

In narrative writing, remember that your main aim is not just to recount an event or tell an arbitrary story, but to draw the reader in, make them care about the characters, and to think and feel along with the narrative. Keep the readers on their toes yet satisfied when they reach the end of your narrative.