Video games do it, it is called POV. Creative Writing using tools to help curate a perspective.

Point of view is an essential tool in creative writing that can significantly influence the reader’s experience of a story. It refers to the perspective from which the story is being told and can have a significant impact on the tone, voice, and overall style of the writing. Writing from a particular point of view requires careful consideration of how it will shape the narrative and the reader’s connection to the characters and events.

One popular point of view in creative writing is the first-person perspective. This point of view allows the reader to connect deeply with the protagonist and experience events as they unfold through the character’s eyes. It can create a sense of intimacy and immediacy that draws the reader into the story. However, writing from the first-person point of view can also limit the reader’s access to the thoughts and experiences of other characters, which may be a disadvantage in some cases.

Another point of view commonly used in creative writing is the third-person perspective. This perspective can be further broken down into two subtypes: third-person limited and third-person omniscient. In third-person limited, the story is still told from an external perspective, but the reader has access to the thoughts and experiences of one character only. This allows for a greater degree of objectivity while still providing a personal connection to the story’s protagonist. Third-person omniscient, on the other hand, allows for a more comprehensive view of the story, as the narrator has access to the thoughts and experiences of all characters. This can create a greater sense of scope and depth, but may also create distance between the reader and individual characters.

When choosing a point of view for a story, it is essential to consider how it will impact the narrative. Different perspectives can create different levels of intimacy and distance, and can also impact the pacing and structure of the story. Writers should choose the point of view that best serves the needs of the story and the characters.

Point of view is a crucial tool in creative writing that allows writers to shape the reader’s experience of a story. By considering the strengths and limitations of different perspectives and choosing the most appropriate point of view for the story being told, writers can create a more engaging and effective narrative.

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First-person perspective

The first-person perspective is a commonly used point of view in creative writing, where the narrator is a character in the story and shares their personal experiences and thoughts with the reader. It provides an intimate and immediate connection between the reader and the narrator, as the reader is placed inside the character’s head and experiences the story through their eyes.

Using the first-person perspective in creative writing can have several advantages. Firstly, it allows the reader to form a strong bond with the narrator, making the story more emotionally engaging. Secondly, it can provide a unique insight into the character’s personality, thoughts, and motivations, creating a sense of depth and complexity that can enhance the story. Thirdly, it can help create a sense of authenticity and realism in the story, as the reader is immersed in the character’s world and experiences.

However, there are also some challenges associated with using the first-person perspective in creative writing. One of the main challenges is the risk of the narrator becoming unreliable, as their personal bias and subjective experience can affect how the story is told. This can be used effectively as a narrative technique, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure that the reader is not misled or confused.

Another challenge is the limited perspective that the first-person perspective provides. The reader only sees the story through the narrator’s eyes, and so the writer needs to ensure that the narrator has access to all the important information and events in the story. This can require careful planning and structuring of the narrative to ensure that the story is complete and coherent.

To overcome these challenges and make the most of the advantages of the first-person perspective in creative writing, writers should focus on creating a strong, well-rounded narrator with a unique voice and perspective. They should also pay close attention to the narrative structure and pacing to ensure that the story is engaging and accessible to the reader. With careful attention to detail and a strong understanding of the strengths and limitations of the first-person perspective, writers can create compelling and memorable stories that resonate with readers.

Here are some examples of popular books and movies that use the first-person perspective:

1. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger: This classic novel is narrated by Holden Caulfield, a troubled teenager who is struggling to find his place in the world. The first-person perspective allows the reader to experience Holden’s inner turmoil and confusion, as he tries to make sense of the world around him.
2. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: This dystopian novel is narrated by Katniss Everdeen, a young girl who is forced to compete in a brutal fight-to-the-death tournament. The first-person perspective allows the reader to experience Katniss’s fear, desperation, and determination as she fights to survive.
3. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins: This bestselling thriller is narrated by Rachel, a troubled woman who becomes entangled in a missing person’s investigation. The first-person perspective allows the reader to experience Rachel’s unreliable memory and her struggle to piece together the events of the story.
4. Fight Club directed by David Fincher: This film is narrated by an unnamed protagonist played by Edward Norton, who becomes involved in an underground fight club. The first-person perspective allows the viewer to experience the protagonist’s disillusionment and dissatisfaction with his life, as well as his descent into violence and anarchy.
5. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald: This classic novel is narrated by Nick Carraway, a young man who becomes drawn into the glittering world of the wealthy elite. The first-person perspective allows the reader to experience Nick’s fascination and disgust with the excesses of the wealthy, as well as his own personal struggles and disappointments.

These examples demonstrate the power and versatility of the first-person perspective in creative writing. By allowing the audience to see the story through the eyes of the protagonist, writers and filmmakers can create deep emotional connections with their audience, and provide a unique and compelling perspective on the world around us. Whether it’s through the struggles of a troubled teenager or the violent excesses of an underground fight club, the first-person perspective has the ability to transport us to new worlds and challenge our perceptions of the world we live in.

However, when writing a story in first-person perspective, there are certain things that writers must be careful of in order to create an effective narrative. One of the key concerns is ensuring that the story is told in a believable and authentic way. Here are some of the things that writers should keep in mind when using first-person perspective:

1. Consistency: It is important to maintain consistency in the voice and style of the narrator. This means staying true to the character’s personality and using language and vocabulary that fits with their background and experiences.
2. Bias: As the narrator is a character in the story, there is the potential for bias to influence the way events are presented. It is important for writers to be aware of this and to make sure that the narrator’s bias does not distort the events or characters in the story.
3. Unreliable narrators: Sometimes, the narrator may intentionally or unintentionally present a skewed version of events. This can create an interesting effect in the story, but it is important for the writer to be clear about whether or not the narrator is reliable.
4. Perspective: First-person perspective limits the reader’s view of the world to the narrator’s perspective. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage – on the one hand, it allows for a deep exploration of the narrator’s thoughts and feelings, but on the other hand, it can make it difficult to present events and characters that the narrator is not directly involved with.
5. Dialogue: When writing in first-person perspective, it is important to pay attention to dialogue. The narrator can only report what they hear, so dialogue is a key tool for revealing other characters’ thoughts and motivations.

Overall, first-person perspective can be a powerful tool for creating an immersive and engaging narrative, but it requires careful attention to the narrator’s voice and perspective.

Skyrim: First person in games, use it to help students to understand how to write an essay.

The first-person perspective in gaming is a popular choice among developers for creating immersive and engaging experiences. By placing the player directly in the game world and providing a first-person view of their character’s actions and movements, games can provide a sense of presence and agency that other perspectives may not be able to replicate.

One of the key advantages of the first-person perspective in gaming is its ability to create a sense of presence and immersion. By placing the player directly in the game world, the first-person perspective allows them to explore and interact with the environment in a more personal and immediate way. This can make the game experience more engaging and immersive, as the player feels like they are really part of the world they are exploring.

Another advantage of the first-person perspective in gaming is its ability to enhance the sense of agency and control that players have over their character. By providing a direct view of the character’s actions and movements, the first-person perspective allows players to feel like they are really in control of their character’s actions and decisions. This can make the game experience more satisfying and empowering, as players feel like they have a real impact on the game world.

Here are some examples of popular games that use the first-person perspective:

1. Half-Life: This first-person shooter game is widely considered to be one of the most influential games of all time. It uses a first-person perspective to create a sense of immersion and agency, as players take on the role of Gordon Freeman, a physicist who must fight off aliens and other enemies to survive.
2. Skyrim: This open-world role-playing game allows players to explore a vast, detailed world filled with quests and adventures. By using a first-person perspective, players can experience the game world as if they were really there, and can interact with characters and objects in a more personal and immediate way.
3. Portal: This puzzle game uses a first-person perspective to create a sense of disorientation and challenge, as players must navigate a series of increasingly complex test chambers using a device that can create portals between two locations. The first-person perspective adds to the sense of confusion and disorientation, as players must constantly adjust their view to solve the puzzles.
4. Doom: This classic first-person shooter game has been remade and rebooted multiple times, with the latest version released in 2016. It uses a fast-paced, frenetic gameplay style that is enhanced by the first-person perspective, as players must navigate through hordes of demons and other monsters to survive.
5. BioShock: This atmospheric first-person shooter game is set in an underwater city called Rapture, and uses a first-person perspective to create a sense of isolation and vulnerability. The game’s story and setting are also enhanced by the first-person perspective, as players must uncover the secrets of the city and its inhabitants to survive.

The first-person perspective is a powerful tool for creating immersive and engaging gaming experiences. These examples show just a few of the ways that game developers have used the first-person perspective to create memorable and impactful games. Whether it’s through fast-paced shooter gameplay or deep role-playing adventures, the first-person perspective has become a staple of modern gaming.

An example of how first-person perspective story can be written

Living in Singapore has always been an adventure for me, and my daily life is filled with excitement and new experiences. My name is Kayla, and as a teenager, I find that my friends and school play a significant role in shaping my character. My appearance, background, actions, dialogue, and the setting all contribute to the unique story of my life.

Every morning when I get ready for school, I put on my neatly pressed uniform, which consists of a white blouse and a navy blue pleated skirt. My shoulder-length black hair is tied into a high ponytail, and my almond-shaped eyes light up with anticipation for the day ahead.

Growing up in Singapore, I’ve been surrounded by a melting pot of cultures, which has given me a diverse and open-minded perspective on life. My friends come from various backgrounds, and our conversations are always enriched by our unique experiences and viewpoints.

Today, as I entered the school gates, I was greeted by the familiar sights and sounds that I’ve grown to love. The laughter of my friends echoed through the hallways, and I couldn’t wait to join them.

As I approached my friends, our dialogue began with the usual banter and updates about our lives. My friend Jia Ying excitedly shared her plans for the upcoming school break, saying, “I can’t wait to explore more of Singapore during the holidays! There’s always something new to see and do here.”

I chimed in, “That’s so true, Jia Ying! I’m looking forward to trying out new hawker stalls and maybe even joining a dance workshop.”

My actions in school reflect my passion for learning and personal growth. From participating in class discussions to joining extracurricular activities like the drama club, I am constantly looking for opportunities to enrich my life and connect with my friends.

The setting of my school, nestled within the bustling cityscape of Singapore, provides the perfect backdrop for my academic and social pursuits. From the lush greenery surrounding our campus to the city’s iconic landmarks just a stone’s throw away, the environment shapes my experiences and fuels my love for learning and personal development.

Through a first-person perspective and the use of creative writing techniques, my life as a Singaporean girl comes alive, painting a vivid picture of the friendships, experiences, and adventures that fill my days.

The third-person perspective

The third-person perspective is a popular choice for authors in creative writing due to its ability to provide a broad view of the story’s events, establish an objective tone, and create a more complex plot. While it can create a distance between the reader and the characters, it can be overcome by providing detailed descriptions of the characters’ thoughts and feelings. It is a powerful tool for authors to create compelling stories that capture the reader’s imagination.

In creative writing, one of the most crucial decisions an author makes is the choice of point of view. It is the perspective from which the story is told, and it can greatly influence how the reader experiences the story. The most common point of view is the third-person perspective, which is when the narrator is not a character in the story and uses pronouns like “he,” “she,” and “they” to refer to the characters.

One of the primary advantages of using the third-person perspective in creative writing is that it allows the author to provide a broader view of the story’s events. It enables the narrator to describe scenes from different perspectives and provide insight into the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. The author can switch between characters’ perspectives to give the reader a more comprehensive understanding of the story’s events.

The third-person perspective is also useful in establishing an objective tone for the story. The narrator can remain neutral and provide a factual account of the events, allowing the reader to draw their conclusions without being influenced by the narrator’s biases or opinions.

Another advantage of using the third-person perspective is that it allows for a more complex plot. The author can use the narrator to provide information to the reader that the characters do not know, which can create suspense and build tension as the reader anticipates the characters’ reactions to new developments in the story.

One of the drawbacks of using the third-person perspective is that it can create a distance between the reader and the characters. Since the narrator is not a character in the story, the reader may not feel as connected to the characters as they would if the story were told from a first-person perspective. However, this can be overcome by providing detailed descriptions of the characters’ thoughts, feelings, and motivations.

Examples of popular books that use the third-person perspective include “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” by J.K. Rowling, “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins, and “Game of Thrones” by George R.R. Martin. In each of these books, the third-person perspective allows the reader to experience the story from multiple characters’ viewpoints, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.

When writing a story in third-person perspective, there are several things that writers need to be mindful of to ensure that the narrative is engaging and effective. Here are some of the key considerations:

1. Narrative distance: Third-person perspective can be written with varying degrees of narrative distance, which refers to how close the narrator is to the characters and events in the story. Writers need to be mindful of this distance and adjust it to suit the needs of the story.
2. Consistency: Like first-person perspective, consistency is also important in third-person perspective. The narrative voice should remain consistent, and the writer should avoid confusing the reader with sudden shifts in perspective or style.
3. Avoid head-hopping: Head-hopping refers to switching between different characters’ perspectives within a single scene or paragraph. This can be confusing for readers and disrupt the flow of the story. It’s best to stick to one character’s perspective at a time.
4. Show, don’t tell: In third-person perspective, the writer has the freedom to show the reader what’s happening from multiple perspectives. However, it’s important to avoid telling the reader what characters are thinking or feeling. Instead, use dialogue, actions, and descriptions to convey emotions and thoughts.
5. Avoid omniscience: It’s tempting to write in an omniscient perspective, where the narrator knows everything that’s happening and what every character is thinking. However, this can remove the tension and suspense from the story. It’s better to limit the narrator’s knowledge to what the characters would reasonably know.

By being mindful of these considerations, writers can effectively use third-person perspective to create a compelling and engaging story. A good example of how an author does not lose track of the storyline and have head-hopping issues can be found in Lord of the Rings:

J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” is widely regarded as a masterpiece of modern fantasy literature, and one of the most influential works in the genre. One of the key innovations of the novel is the way in which it weaves together multiple storylines that run concurrently, allowing readers to experience the narrative from a variety of perspectives and providing a rich, multi-layered reading experience.

Prior to the publication of “The Lord of the Rings” in the mid-20th century, most novels followed a linear narrative structure, with a single storyline unfolding from beginning to end. However, Tolkien’s novel breaks with this tradition by introducing a number of distinct plot threads that run parallel to one another, each with its own set of characters, themes, and conflicts.

At the heart of the novel is the quest of Frodo Baggins, a hobbit tasked with destroying the powerful and dangerous Ring of Power that threatens to plunge the world into darkness. However, Tolkien also weaves together a number of other plot threads, each of which follows its own group of characters and contributes to the larger narrative in different ways.

For example, the storyline involving the wizard Gandalf and his efforts to rally the free peoples of Middle-earth to the cause of defeating the dark lord Sauron provides important context and backstory for the main plot. Similarly, the journey of Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli to find and rescue the hobbits Merry and Pippin from the clutches of the orcs provides another perspective on the larger conflict.

By interweaving these different plot threads, Tolkien creates a rich and complex tapestry of characters, settings, and themes that adds depth and texture to the story. Readers are able to experience the narrative from a variety of perspectives, gaining insight into the motivations, fears, and aspirations of a wide range of characters. This approach also allows Tolkien to explore a broad range of themes, from the nature of power and temptation to the importance of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice.

“The Lord of the Rings” was a groundbreaking work in many respects, and its use of multiple concurrent storylines helped to set the stage for many subsequent works of fantasy and science fiction. Today, it remains a beloved and influential work, cherished by readers of all ages for its rich and immersive world-building, compelling characters, and epic narrative scope.

Grand Theft Auto: Third person in games, use it to help students to understand how to write an essay.

The third-person perspective is one of the most commonly used points of view in creative writing, and it has also been extensively used in the world of video games. In games, the third-person perspective allows players to view the game world and their character from an external point of view. This perspective provides a greater sense of immersion and control over the character’s actions.

One of the most well-known game series that uses the third-person perspective is the “Grand Theft Auto” franchise. Players take on the role of a character in an open-world environment and are given the freedom to explore and complete various missions. The third-person perspective allows players to see their character and surroundings from a distance, which can aid in navigation and combat.

Another popular game that utilizes the third-person perspective is the “Uncharted” series. Players take on the role of treasure hunter Nathan Drake as he navigates various environments and battles enemies. The third-person perspective allows players to see the action and the environment from a cinematic point of view, which adds to the immersion and excitement of the game.

The “Assassin’s Creed” franchise is another popular series that uses the third-person perspective. Players take on the role of an assassin in various historical settings and are tasked with completing missions and exploring the game world. The third-person perspective allows players to see their character’s movements and actions, as well as the surrounding environment, which can aid in stealth and combat.

In addition to these examples, there are countless other games that utilize the third-person perspective to great effect. The perspective provides a unique and immersive experience that can make players feel like they are truly a part of the game world. It allows for greater control over the character’s actions and provides a cinematic view of the game’s events.

An example of how third-person perspective story can be written

Living in Singapore had always been an adventure for Kayla, and her daily life was filled with excitement and new experiences. As a teenager, her friends and school played a significant role in shaping her character. Kayla’s appearance, background, actions, dialogue, and the setting all contributed to the unique story of her life.

Every morning, Kayla would put on her neatly pressed uniform, which consisted of a white blouse and a navy blue pleated skirt. Her shoulder-length black hair would be tied into a high ponytail, and her almond-shaped eyes would light up with anticipation for the day ahead.

Growing up in Singapore, Kayla had been surrounded by a melting pot of cultures, which had given her a diverse and open-minded perspective on life. Her friends came from various backgrounds, and their conversations were always enriched by their unique experiences and viewpoints.

On this particular day, as Kayla entered the school gates, she was greeted by the familiar sights and sounds that she had grown to love. The laughter of her friends echoed through the hallways, and she couldn’t wait to join them.

As Kayla approached her friends, their dialogue began with the usual banter and updates about their lives. Her friend Jia Ying excitedly shared her plans for the upcoming school break, saying, “I can’t wait to explore more of Singapore during the holidays! There’s always something new to see and do here.”

Kayla chimed in, “That’s so true, Jia Ying! I’m looking forward to trying out new hawker stalls and maybe even joining a dance workshop.”

Kayla’s actions in school reflected her passion for learning and personal growth. From participating in class discussions to joining extracurricular activities like the drama club, she was constantly looking for opportunities to enrich her life and connect with her friends.

The setting of Kayla’s school, nestled within the bustling cityscape of Singapore, provided the perfect backdrop for her academic and social pursuits. From the lush greenery surrounding the campus to the city’s iconic landmarks just a stone’s throw away, the environment shaped her experiences and fueled her love for learning and personal development.

Through a third-person perspective and the use of creative writing techniques, the life of Kayla, a Singaporean girl, came alive, painting a vivid picture of the friendships, experiences, and adventures that filled her days.

Beware!

When writing point of view in creative writing, there are several things that writers need to be careful about:

1. Consistency: The point of view should be consistent throughout the story. Switching point of view mid-story can be jarring and confusing for the reader.
2. Characterization: The point of view should reflect the character’s personality, beliefs, and experiences. It should not contradict or misrepresent the character.
3. Bias: Every point of view is biased in some way. Writers need to be aware of their own biases and avoid letting them overshadow the story.
4. Reader Engagement: The point of view should be chosen in such a way that it creates the most engaging and compelling story for the reader. The reader’s interest should be maintained throughout the story.
5. Accessibility: The point of view should be accessible to the reader. The reader should be able to understand and follow the story without feeling confused or lost.

By being mindful of these factors, writers can create a successful point of view that enhances their creative writing and delivers an engaging and compelling story to the reader.

Avoid Bias

Avoiding writing bias in creative writing is essential to produce an unbiased, objective, and compelling story. Here are some ways to avoid writing bias:

1. Be aware of your own biases: Everyone has some bias based on their personal experiences and worldview. Recognizing and acknowledging your biases is the first step towards avoiding them in your writing.
2. Research thoroughly: Research your subject matter thoroughly to avoid stereotypes and assumptions. This will help you to present accurate and unbiased information.
3. Use diverse perspectives: Try to include a diverse range of perspectives in your story to avoid portraying a single viewpoint. This can add depth and complexity to your characters and plot.
4. Use inclusive language: Use language that is inclusive of all genders, races, ethnicities, and religions. This helps to avoid perpetuating stereotypes and reinforces the idea of equality.
5. Be mindful of character development: Develop your characters in a way that avoids stereotyping and bias. Avoid making assumptions based on a character’s race, gender, or other attributes.
6. Get feedback: Get feedback from beta readers or editors who can provide constructive criticism on your writing. This can help you to identify any potential biases and make necessary revisions.

By being aware of your own biases, doing thorough research, using diverse perspectives, using inclusive language, being mindful of character development, and getting feedback, you can avoid writing bias in your creative writing.

How to choose which perspective to use?

Choosing the right point of view for a story depends on the goals of the writer, the story being told, and the characters involved. Here are some general guidelines for which type of point of view might suit certain types of characters:

First-person point of view is best suited for:

1. Characters with a strong voice and unique perspective, such as Holden Caulfield in “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger.
2. Characters with a personal connection to the events of the story, such as Katniss Everdeen in “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins.
3. Characters who experience significant internal conflict and growth, such as Scout Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee.

Third-person point of view is best suited for:

1. Stories with multiple characters or complex plotlines, such as “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien.
2. Stories with an omniscient narrator who can provide insight into multiple characters’ thoughts and perspectives, such as “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen.
3. Stories that require an objective viewpoint, such as “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Ultimately, the decision of which point of view to use depends on the story and characters being written, and there are no hard and fast rules. It’s up to the writer to determine which point of view best serves their goals for the story.