Narrative Writing: Purpose

Understanding the Purpose

Narrative writing is a form of writing that tells a story. Its core purpose is to entertain, inform, or engage the reader.
A narrative focuses on an event or series of events, unfolding these happenings in a structured way to maintain reader interest.
The primary aim of narrative writing is to construct a compelling storyline that includes elements of tension, resolution, and character development.
An effective narrative should create a relationship between the reader and the text by stirring emotions or sparking a thought-process.

A narrative usually has a definite point of view, which is the perspective from which the story is told. This could be first, second, or third person.
The choice of point of view can deeply influence the effectiveness of the narrative and the reader’s connection with the characters and events.
It’s important to maintain consistent point of view throughout the narrative to avoid reader confusion.

A narrative employs various techniques to capture reader’s interest, including dialogue, description, and action.
Conflict is a key element in narrative writing, as it drives the plot and forms the foundation for tension and climax.
A narrative should have a clear beginning, middle, and end, generally including elements like exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.
The theme in narrative writing refers to the central or underlying idea. This can often challenge readers to think about wider issues, adding depth to the reading experience.
Characterisation plays a vital role in narrative writing. Well-developed characters can make the reader emotionally invested in their journey and outcomes.

The style of narrative writing can be very varied - it can be linear (events occur in a chronological order) or non-linear (events are told out of order, typically using flashbacks or foreshadowing).
The use of vivid descriptive language can bring the story to life in the reader’s mind.
Dialogue can not only move the plot forward but also reveal more about the characters and add authenticity.

An effective narrative should always consider the reader, ensuring that the story is engaging and clear.
The writer’s aim should be to take the reader on a journey, making them feel as though they have lived the experiences of the characters.
Providing a sense of closure towards the end where the conflicts are resolved or the story comes to a rest, leaves the reader satisfied.

Pacing is crucial to keep a reader engaged. Knowing when to slow down for dramatic effect or speed up for action scenes can significantly impact the narrative’s potency.
The writer can use foreshadowing to hint at future events, creating suspense and keeping readers curious and engaged.
Lastly, the narrative may include symbolism, where objects, characters, or events represent broader ideas, themes or emotions. This can add depth and layers to the story.