Exploring the Basics: What is Third Person Point of View?

Exploring the Basics: What is Third Person Point of View?

When it comes to writing, there are three distinct points of view: first person, second person, and third person. Many writers use these three points of view to tell their stories, and the choice of point of view can greatly affect the way in which the reader experiences the narrative.

First person point of view is when the story is told from the perspective of the protagonist. This point of view is often used in autobiographies, memoirs, and personal essays.

Second person point of view is when the reader is addressed directly in the text. This point of view is not commonly used in fiction writing but can be used in instructional writing or self-help books.

Third person point of view is the most commonly used point of view for fiction writing. It involves telling the story from an outside perspective, allowing the writer more freedom to describe the setting, characters, and events without being limited by the perspective of one character.

In third-person point of view, the narrator is not a character in the story and refers to the characters as “he” or “she.” Third-person point of view can be divided into three types: limited, omniscient, and objective.

Limited

Limited third person point of view is when the narrator only knows the thoughts and feelings of one character. This means that the reader only experiences the story from the perspective of this character, even though the narrator is not that character. This point of view is commonly used in young adult novels, and it allows the reader to experience the story through the eyes of the protagonist, creating an intimate and emotional connection between the reader and the character.

Omniscient

Omniscient third person point of view is when the narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters in the story. This point of view is commonly used in epic novels and allows the writer to explore multiple storylines and characters simultaneously. However, it can also create a sense of distance between the reader and the characters, and it can be difficult to maintain consistent narration.

Objective

Objective third person point of view is when the narrator only describes the events and actions of the characters without revealing their thoughts or feelings. This point of view is often used in journalistic writing and allows the writer to remain neutral while still telling the story.

In conclusion, third person point of view is an essential aspect of any writer’s toolkit. By understanding the different types of third person point of view, writers can better tell their stories and connect with their readers in a meaningful way. Remember to choose your point of view based on the story you want to tell, and always stay true to the characters and their experiences.