A short guide to third person omniscient point of view

If the first-person point of view is like an inside-out view of a single character and the second-person turns the reader into a participant, then the third-person omniscient point of view is akin to being a fly on the wall – a fly that just so happens to be all-knowing.

In third person omniscient, the narrator isn't a character in the story. Instead, they're an all-seeing, all-knowing entity who can access the thoughts, feelings, and motivations of any character at any time. It's like having a bird's-eye view of your story, with the added ability to zoom in on any character's internal world.

Advantages of being omniscient

The third-person omniscient point of view offers a host of advantages. It's a fantastic tool to provide a broad perspective of events, delve into multiple characters' psychologies, or build a rich, multi-layered narrative.

This POV lets you play with irony and suspense, as readers might know something that the characters don't. It allows for a more objective telling of the story, offering a balanced view of the characters and their actions. Think of it as being the director and the audience at the same time – you decide where the spotlight goes, and you get to see the whole stage.

The trials of being all-knowing

While this POV can be powerful, it's not without its challenges. The biggest pitfall is the risk of 'head-hopping', where the writer jumps too frequently between characters' thoughts, leading to a confusing narrative. Remember, just because you can peek into every character's mind, doesn't mean you always should.

There's also the risk of losing intimacy with your characters. Being an outside observer can create some distance between the reader and the characters. It's a bit like watching a nature documentary – it's fascinating, but you're not really in the lion's den.

💡 Read our tips for choosing the right point of view for your novel.

Tips for writing in third person omniscient

1. Maintain control: Keep track of whose thoughts and feelings you're diving into and ensure the shifts are clear.
2. Balance is key: Don't let the ability to know everything result in information overload. Give your reader necessary insights, not a character's entire life history.
3. Mix it up: Use a blend of narrative techniques – show, tell, internal thoughts, description. Keep your reader engaged.

Embracing the all-seeing 'eye'

Writing in the third person omniscient is a balancing act of providing insight, maintaining clarity, and keeping your reader connected to your characters. It's like being a tour guide – you're in control of the journey, but the experience is what truly matters to the visitor.

‍