Why is it more significant to write in the present tense when describing a person in comparison to writing in the past?
Because it's more accurate what the person is like now, in the present, as opposed to the past. People can change a lot.
When describing a person, using the present tense is often more significant and impactful compared to using the past tense. Writing in the present tense creates a sense of immediacy and makes the description feel more alive and relevant. Here's why:
1. Active and Engaging: Describing a person in the present tense gives the impression that the individual is currently active and engaged in the situation. It allows the reader to visualize the person as if they are witnessing them in real-time, rather than as a historical figure.
2. Emotional Connection: The present tense conveys a stronger emotional connection between the reader and the person described. It enhances the reader's ability to relate to and empathize with the individual, as if they exist in the present moment.
3. Personal Impact: Writing in the present tense portrays the person as dynamic, with ongoing actions and emotions. It helps emphasize their current accomplishments, qualities, and impact on others. It places focus on their relevance and influence in the present, rather than solely on their past achievements.
4. Realism and Authenticity: Describing in the present tense adds a sense of realism and authenticity to the portrayal of the person. It brings them closer to the present time and makes the description feel more accurate and relatable.
To write in the present tense when describing a person, ensure that verbs are conjugated in the present form. For example, instead of saying "Shakespeare wrote many plays," one would say "Shakespeare writes many plays." This creates a distinct effect and highlights the immediacy of the person's actions and characteristics.