What's wrong with first person?

Lantern Jack · Mar 2, 2007

I've read a lot of experts, so-called, who speak of first person as though it's inferior to third person limited, which is, according to them, the most popular fictional perspective. Personally, I think it keeps the reader at a distance, whereas first person gives the novel a lyrical, story feel. We feel like we're encountering a person, not a catalog of events.

Cathy C · Mar 2, 2007

Not a thing, IMO. I enjoy writing first person tremendously. I do prefer first person in near past tense, rather than present tense, though. It reads better to me.

I don't think it's inferior at all and, in fact, a great number of the current shelved best selling books in fantasy and romance are in first person, so apparently the readers have no problem with it either.

Rhea L · Mar 2, 2007

Lantern Jack said:
Personally, I think it keeps the reader at a distance, whereas first person gives the novel a lyrical, story feel.

Depends. If you go into deep POV with third person limited, it can be a very intense experience for the reader, provided that you've chosen the right POV character and the reader in question identifies with them.

I've written both, first and third person, and to me, it really depends on the story. Every once in a while, I like to write a short story using first person, but for novels, it's third limited that never fails to do the trick. Same with reading: I will enjoy a well-written story in first person, but I believe it takes a lot more skill to pull it off. Could be just me, though. Perhaps it's because first person is less often encountered (at least in what I read) and that automatically makes me pay more attention to the way it's written.

scarletpeaches · Mar 2, 2007

Third person limited might be the most popular, but it's definitely not the only perspective. If I'm reading a book that's written well I don't notice things like tense or perspective unless I'm actively looking for it, which is, I think, the sign of an author who's chosen POV well. When you see the story but not the mechanics of how it was put together.

I've never used first person but wouldn't rule it out. I've tried it but went mad after a few chapters; it didn't work. Maybe at some point in the future.

I tend to stick to 3rd limited myself, but am open to trying different things. Hell, one day I might even try outlining!

The Scip · Mar 2, 2007

I have a short story that could easily be expanded into a novel. I haven't looked at in a while, but i just printed it recently and re-read it. It was written in first person past tense, but I was thinking as I was reading it how it would sound if it was a whole novel of first person.

KTC · Mar 2, 2007

I prefer first person, Jackypoo. It allows me to slip into the character. I seek out first person when I'm going through the aisles at the library looking for my newest escape. I don't get the big hate on for it, either. It's just a matter of opinion. Go with what you like.

scarletpeaches · Mar 2, 2007

Will you still read my humble 3rd-limited offerings, Kevvypoos?

veinglory · Mar 2, 2007

At the moment third is more the norm, that's all.

.

blacbird · Mar 2, 2007

Nothing. The POV of any narrative ought to be an outgrowth of the narrative, and what's right for one story may not be right for another. Depends on the story as much as the preference of the writer, maybe more so. Any trip to the bookstore or library will find you abundant examples of either technique.

caw

KTC · Mar 2, 2007

I don't know, Judaspeaches. I thought you smote me? Should I be reading the works of my smoter? 1st, 3rd or otherwise?

scarletpeaches · Mar 2, 2007

If you were in a state of smottage I don't think you'd be able to post here. Sides, you're the Messiah (a Canadian! Who knew?) and I would have thought the smiting would go the other way. Do I look smot to you?

CheshireCat · Mar 2, 2007

It amazes me how often this "debate" pops up.

If first-person works for you and your story, use it.

If third-person works best, use that.

Use whatever tool is best suited to tell your particular story.

Other than that, there is no right or wrong.

:e2BIC:

KTC · Mar 2, 2007

Whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. If you will turn slightly to your left, I will be happy to apply the next smoting. And, fyi, smoting doesn't always incapacitate, you ninny. You threw a tiny rock, but still a rock. I smite my hands together in celebration of your smotage. Now, where's your book. An eye for an eye, a 1st for a 3rd and all that. Come hither with your words.

scarletpeaches · Mar 2, 2007

I shall smite thee when tis printed in hardback, large, LARGE print, so the smottage leaves a bruise and yay, unto thee shall the doctor come and smite his thigh with shock at the smititudinous smittage on thy cheek.

KTC · Mar 2, 2007

ooh. I can't wait. I've never been smited so smitingly before. Sounds inviting.

scarletpeaches · Mar 2, 2007

I shall smite thee to smithereens.

KTC · Mar 2, 2007

scarletpeaches said:
I shall smite thee to a smithereens concert.

ooh! Promise?!

scarletpeaches · Mar 2, 2007

*smites own forehead and says "D'oh!"*

scribbler1382 · Mar 2, 2007

I like writing in fourth person. Most people say I'm constantly talking out of my ass, anyways.

Cassiopeia · Mar 2, 2007

I have no preference but I do think that first person can bring you closer into the story depending how well it is written. Someone using third person can do the same thing but then you would have to be associating with one of the characters.

As for so called experts...I am an expert...just ask me... I will tell you

James D. Macdonald · Mar 2, 2007

What's wrong with first person?

Nothing, if it's done well.

Stew21 · Mar 2, 2007

I read a story called "The Ha-ha" . it was written in first person. It couldn't have been told any other way, I don't think. It was wonderfully done.

Rich · Mar 2, 2007

I write a full one percent of my stories in third person.

AllieB · Mar 2, 2007

First person lets the reader deeply identify with that single character. I think it can be tremendously powerful.

Third person lets the reader in on multiple characters' perspectives. This can also be powerful and useful depending on your story & genre.

Just remember, if you write in 1st person, every single thing has to be filtered through that speaker's POV: the other characters' thoughts & motivations, all events, etc.

Cassiopeia · Mar 2, 2007

AllieB said:
First person lets the reader deeply identify with that single character. I think it can be tremendously powerful.

Third person lets the reader in on multiple characters' perspectives. This can also be powerful and useful depending on your story & genre.

Just remember, if you write in 1st person, every single thing has to be filtered through that speaker's POV: the other characters' thoughts & motivations, all events, etc.

I think for me that would be the most challenging way to write. And I don't feel equal to the task just yet

What's wrong with first person?

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