The way a narrator sees and experiences events
The way a narrator sees and experiences events is termed as the narrative perspective or point of view. It refers to the lens through which the narrator perceives and presents the story.
There are several narrative perspectives commonly used in literature:
1. First-person: In this perspective, the narrator is a character within the story and tells it from their own point of view using "I" or "we." This allows the reader to get a direct insight into the narrator's thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences. However, it limits the reader's access to other characters' perspectives and knowledge.
Example: "I walked down the street, feeling a sense of unease building up within me."
2. Third-person limited: In this perspective, the narrator is external to the story and describes events from the perspective of a single character. The narration uses pronouns such as "he" or "she" and provides insight into the thoughts and feelings of the chosen character. This allows the reader to get a deeper understanding of the character's mindset and experiences while maintaining some distance.
Example: "She looked out the window, wondering if it was the right decision to leave."
3. Third-person omniscient: In this perspective, the narrator is external to the story but has access to the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of multiple characters. The narration uses pronouns such as "he," "she," or character names. This allows the reader to have a broader understanding of the story, as the narrator can delve into the minds of various characters.
Example: "John felt a surge of anger rising within him, while Mary secretly plotted her next move."
4. Second-person: In this perspective, the narrator directly addresses the reader as "you." This creates a sense of the reader being involved in the story or experiencing events firsthand. It is less commonly used compared to other perspectives and can create a more intimate or interactive reading experience.
Example: "As you enter the dark room, your heart pounds with fear."
The narrative perspective chosen by an author can significantly impact the reader's immersion in the story and their understanding of the characters and events. Each perspective offers a unique lens through which the events are observed and relayed, shaping the overall narrative experience.