Perspective and Words

As a writer, one often thinks of perspective. This is because it can really shape a story and how the reader will perceive it depending on who is telling that story. Depending on who is telling a story it can also change the tone of the story.

For instance, a story told by the victim of a horrible crime may more easily persuade it’s readers to feel sympathy for this victim. More so than if the same story was told by a a person completely removed.

I’ve been thinking a lot about perspective these past couple weeks as I’ve read article upon article about the victims in Ukraine and the victims made of the Russian people. It is never surprising that the videos shown move us to tears. How can one not feel when watching all the devastation? The writing however is a different skill set altogether. The author must determine whose perspective to share and how to share it.In some ways the writing can be more powerful because it allows us to create the images in our mind and molds that picture.

Perspective has purpose and impact. But what I’ve seen be reinforced time and time again over the past couple weeks is that words too can persuade and influence and impact us so powerfully. It is not a new realization but a reminder of how we can use this power to change lives and call others to action.

Happy writing this week!