Finding your narrative voice

Have you ever struggled with finding the right voice for your story’s narrator? You’re not alone. As writers, we often encounter moments where we need to capture the essence of our characters’ perspectives and breathe life into their voices. Last night, I found myself grappling with this very challenge, and I stumbled upon a method that helped me overcome the hurdle.

It all started when I sat down to work on a particular chapter. Feeling disconnected from my protagonist’s voice, I decided to experiment with naming the chapter. This technique is not one I frequently employ, but in moments of narrative struggle, it can prove to be quite effective. I began brainstorming several potential titles until one finally clicked, and it felt like the missing puzzle piece. The perfect chapter title for this particular segment emerged: “Apparently, family is more important than friends. Who knew?”

To my surprise, this simple exercise had a profound impact on my writing process. It instantly transported me back into the mindset of my main character, allowing me to regain their unique perspective and voice. Inspired by this experience, I want to share some advice that might assist you in discovering and embracing your own character’s voice:

Know your point of view character: The key to effective storytelling lies in choosing the right character to tell your tale. Consider who has the strongest relationship with the plot, the one most influenced by the events unfolding, and who, in turn, influences the plot. This character will become your storyteller, so understanding their role is crucial.Familiarize yourself with their voice: A character’s voice shapes the overall tone and atmosphere of your book. Take the time to develop a deep understanding of your protagonist’s voice. Are they witty yet kind, or perhaps cruel but joyful? The nuances of their personality will greatly impact your narrative. As an exercise, try envisioning a scene from your favourite book, but this time, write it from the perspective of a secondary character. Pay attention to how the voice changes, what details they notice, and whether the atmosphere of the book remains intact.

By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to create compelling characters with distinct voices. Don’t be afraid to experiment, explore, and fine-tune your narrator’s perspective until it resonates authentically with your story. Remember, finding the right voice is like unravelling a hidden treasure – it may take some time, but the reward is a captivating and engaging narrative that readers will remember.

So, the next time you find yourself wrestling with narrative struggles, give these techniques a try. You never know what discoveries await you as you delve deeper into the minds of your characters and unlock the true essence of your story.

Happy writing!

@cliffordene

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