How to pick the best view-point character(s) for your story

In fiction writing, characters can make the journey thrilling, poignant, humorous, or all of the above. Among these characters, the viewpoint character is particularly vital. This character is the lighthouse illuminating the path of your story. As such, selecting the right viewpoint character is crucial.

Understanding the different types of viewpoint characters

Before you set sail on your narrative journey, let's get acquainted with the various types of viewpoint characters you may encounter:

First-person viewpoint character

This is your story's 'I' – the character witnessing the events, processing them, and sharing their experiences directly with the reader.

Second-person viewpoint character

Here, the narrative is told from the 'you' perspective. This is rarely used, but it can create a strong sense of empathy and immediacy when used effectively.

Third-person limited viewpoint character

This is the 'he' or 'she' of your story, who gives the reader a peek into their thoughts and feelings, but only theirs. The reader experiences the story through this single character's lens.

Third-person omniscient viewpoint character

The all-seeing, all-knowing perspective. This viewpoint character isn't limited to one mind or one location. Instead, they can offer insights into multiple characters' thoughts, feelings, and histories.

Third-person objective viewpoint character

This viewpoint character tells the story without sharing any character's internal thoughts or feelings, much like a hidden camera recording the events.

Multiple viewpoint characters

This approach offers the perspectives of several characters. It's like a narrative relay race, where the baton of viewpoint is passed from one character to another.

Factors to consider when choosing a viewpoint character

Now that we've charted the viewpoint landscape let's consider the factors that could influence your choice of viewpoint character:

Story genre

Your genre might help dictate the best viewpoint. For example, a mystery novel might benefit from a first-person perspective, whereas an epic fantasy might call for multiple viewpoints or a third-person omniscient perspective.

Story objective

What are you hoping to achieve with your story? For example, if you want to immerse the reader in a character's personal journey, the first-person viewpoint could be a strong choice. On the other hand, if you're more focused on the plot than character interiority, the third-person objective might serve you well.

Character development

Consider which character has the most interesting or transformative journey. A character with a compelling arc can make for an engaging viewpoint character.

Reader's connection

The viewpoint character should ideally be someone readers can connect with on an emotional level. Their experiences, reactions, and inner life should resonate with readers.

Writing style

Your writing style also influences the choice of viewpoint. For example, are you more comfortable with the first person, or does your writing shine in the third person?

Steps to choosing the right viewpoint character

Now, here's a handy compass to guide you towards the right viewpoint character:

1. Identify the story's objective: What's the heart of your story? What message or experience do you want to convey to your readers?
2. Analyse the characters: Consider their roles, arcs, and proximity to the story's main events.
3. Determine the best perspective: Based on your analysis, identify the character whose perspective best aligns with your story's objective.
4. Experiment with different viewpoints: Try telling your story from other characters' perspectives. You might discover a new and effective narrative angle.
5. Get feedback: Share your work with trusted readers. They might offer fresh insights into the effectiveness of your chosen viewpoint character.

Common mistakes to avoid when choosing a viewpoint character

Lastly, let's steer clear of some common icebergs that could hinder your narrative voyage:

Choosing a viewpoint character for convenience

It might be tempting to choose a character simply because they're easy to write, but this can lead to a lacklustre narrative. Always remember: the right viewpoint character might not be the most convenient one.

Using too many viewpoint characters

While having multiple viewpoints can add depth to your story, overdoing it can confuse your readers. If you're passing the narrative baton around too frequently, your readers might struggle to form a connection with any single character.

Choosing the wrong viewpoint character

Not every character is cut out to be a viewpoint character. For example, a character might be charming, witty, or fascinating, but if their perspective doesn't serve the story, they might be better suited to a different role.

Failing to develop the viewpoint character

Remember, your viewpoint character is not just a camera recording events. They're a fully realised individual with thoughts, feelings, and desires. Don't neglect their development in your quest to advance the plot.

Wrapping up the narrative journey: from perspective to paper

So there you have it, dear scribes: a compass to help you navigate the vast seas of viewpoint characters. Remember, this is your narrative voyage. The tides of convention might guide you, but ultimately, you're at the helm. So steer your story with confidence and bon voyage!