Exploring the Concept of First Person Point of View: Everything You Need to Know

Exploring the Concept of First Person Point of View: Everything You Need to Know

Have you ever read a book or watched a movie where the narrator spoke directly to you, using language like “I” and “me”? That’s an example of first person point of view (POV). In this article, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about this writing technique, including its definition, types, and examples.

What is First Person Point of View?

First person point of view is a narrative perspective in which the story is told from the perspective of the character using “I” or “me”. This technique allows the reader to experience the story through the character’s eyes, thoughts, and emotions. It’s a popular choice in fiction, and it’s often used to build a stronger connection between the reader and the protagonist.

Types of First Person Point of View

There are three types of first person point of view:

1. First Person Central: In this type, the narrator is also the protagonist of the story, and the reader experiences the world with them. Their thoughts, feelings, and actions are all shown through the first person lens, and the story is entirely filtered through their perspective. Examples of this type include Catcher in the Rye and The Great Gatsby.

2. First Person Peripheral: In this type, the narrator is a secondary character who observes the protagonist’s story. They might be a friend, a family member, or a bystander who has a unique perspective on the events that unfold. The peripheral narrator provides a context for the protagonist’s story, but they aren’t usually the focus. Examples of this type include The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and The Watsons Go to Birmingham.

3. First Person Observer: In this type, the narrator is a detached observer who isn’t involved in the story. They might be a journalist, a historian, or a biographer, and they offer an outsider’s perspective on the events. The observer narrator might also provide background information on the protagonist or the setting. Examples of this type include The Great Gatsby and The Shadow of the Wind.

Advantages and Disadvantages of First Person Point of View

There are several advantages and disadvantages to using first person point of view in your writing.

Advantages:
– It creates a stronger connection between the reader and the protagonist
– It allows for a deeper exploration of the protagonist’s thoughts, feelings, and emotions
– It can help to build suspense and create a sense of intimacy with the reader

Disadvantages:
– It can limit the reader’s understanding of the story by only showing one perspective
– It can become repetitive if the protagonist’s voice isn’t distinct or compelling
– It can be challenging to maintain a consistent tone and voice throughout the story

Examples of First Person Point of View

Here are some examples of first person point of view in literature:

– “I am an invisible man.” – Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
– “Call me Ishmael.” – Moby Dick by Herman Melville
– “It was a pleasure to burn.” – Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
– “I write this sitting in the kitchen sink.” – I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
– “Lolita, light of my life, fire of my loins.” – Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Conclusion

In conclusion, first person point of view is a powerful narrative technique that can create a strong connection between the reader and the protagonist. By using “I” or “me” to tell the story, the reader experiences the world through the character’s eyes, thoughts, and emotions. However, it’s essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of this technique before using it in your writing. By doing so, you can ensure that your story is engaging and well-crafted, no matter what perspective you choose to tell it from.