Understanding Points of View in Writing

When telling a story, the Point of View (POV) determines who is narrating and how much information the reader has access to. While first person (“I did this”) and third person (“She did that”) are the most common, other perspectives like second person, omniscient, objective, and subjective offer unique storytelling opportunities. Here’s an overview to help you understand these POVs:

1. Second Person Point of View

  • What it is: The narrator speaks directly to the reader using “you,” making the reader feel as though they are part of the story.
  • Example:
    “You walk into the room, unsure of what you’ll find. The silence presses in around you.”
  • When to use it: This POV creates an immersive, engaging experience but is rare in fiction because it can feel unconventional or challenging to maintain. It’s often used in instructional writing, interactive storytelling, or experimental fiction.

2. Omniscient Point of View

  • What it is: The narrator knows everything—every character’s thoughts, feelings, and motivations, as well as events happening anywhere in the story world.
  • Example:
    “Sarah felt uneasy as she stepped into the house, but across town, John was already planning his escape, oblivious to her growing dread.”
  • When to use it: Omniscient POV allows the reader to see the full picture, creating a broad, sweeping narrative. However, it can sometimes feel less personal than other perspectives.

3. Objective Point of View

  • What it is: The narrator describes only what is observable—actions, dialogue, and setting—without revealing any thoughts or feelings.
  • Example:
    “The man closed the door and sat at the desk. He tapped his pen against the wood and stared at the clock.”
  • When to use it: This POV is like a camera recording events. It keeps the reader guessing about characters’ motivations, which can create tension or mystery.

4. Subjective Point of View

  • What it is: The narrator provides a character’s personal perspective, revealing their thoughts, feelings, and biases.
  • Example:
    “The room was too hot, and the silence felt hostile. She couldn’t believe they’d left her waiting this long—such rudeness!”
  • When to use it: This POV creates a close, intimate connection with a character, showing events filtered through their emotions and opinions.

Each POV offers unique benefits and challenges, influencing how readers experience your story. Experiment with these perspectives to find the one that best serves your narrative. Whether you’re crafting a deeply personal tale or a sweeping epic, mastering POV is key to engaging your audience!