In writing stories, the point of view is like the angle from which the story is told. There are three main types:
- First person
- Second person
- Third person
Second person is a special viewpoint where the story talks directly to the reader, using "you."
This method can make the reader feel involved, like they're the main character. But writing well in the second person needs practice and thoughtfulness.
Firstly, it's a bit different and catches your attention. When they use "you," it feels like they're talking right to you, making you feel like you're a part of the story.
There are some more reasons why the stories have been written in second person voice. Let's get started reading!
What is Second Person Point of View in Story Writing
While reading or writing a story, many people can easily relate to the main theme of the writer. Why would it happen? Is this due to second person points of view? Why do authors write stories in the second person point of view?
Well, there are a few reasons, let's know them one by one!
1. Study those who went before you
The first and most interesting step to knowing the second person point of view writing is to study their previous work. Read stories told in second person by great authors. See how they make "you" feel like you are living the story.
For example:
In the book "Bright Lights, Big City" by Jay McInerney, you experience the wild nightlife of 1980s New York. "You are not the kind of guy who would be at a place like this at this time of the morning."
Having the idea of previously written stories will help you improve your story writing and make them more readable and emotionally attached.
2. Practice writing to add connectivity
This point refers to trying rewriting a familiar story or already written story using "you." Try to get aware of all the elements of story writing just before attempting to write a specific type. This helps you get the hang of second person or more connectivity.
For example:
You could rewrite a scene from "The Hunger Games" with Katniss as "you." "You stand frozen as the announcer reads the name for the girl tribute. Your name."
3. Stay consistent for good output
Staying consistent and regular means don't shift randomly between "you," "he," and "she." It will confuse the reader.
Additionally, the AI story generator provides you with various options to set creativity according to your topic. But making quality tweaks will help you get great output.
For example:
You enter the ghost house. He feels afraid but keeps going." This switching between "you" and "he" is unpleasant.
4. Use strong details and be descriptive
Use strong details and be descriptive when using 'you' as the main character. Try to describe what they see, hear, smell, etc. The word 'you' imitates the reader, hooking them by using strong details.
For example:
The sweet scent of roses fills your nose as you walk into the garden. The sun warms your skin.
Must Read: Types of Story Writing
5. Stay in the moment
In this step you have to stay focused on the present moment in your writing. Try to avoid getting lost in backstory details. Keep the reader engaged in the current events. For instance, when using the second person viewpoint, describe immediate actions and sensations.
For example:
Imagine you're running down a dark alley, feeling your breaths grow heavy and hearing footsteps close behind. There's no time to wonder how you ended up here. This will truly add a creative element to your story and deliver an inspiring and thought-provoking moral lesson.
All of these are the major reasons and key points of authors for using the second person point of view in writing.
Additional Source: Simple Ways to Write Inspirational Stories
Now it's your turn to write!
The use of a second person viewpoint can be tricky, but it's worth it. It's like inviting the reader to step into the character's shoes, making the story feel real.
Don't worry if it seems hard at first. But remember, it takes practice and paying attention to details. Then you'll get the best way to write it in a more delightful way.