Choosing the point of view for your novel is one of the first things to do, typically writers decide to write from one point of view, though not always. Depending on the goal or genre of your novel, you may choose to write from more than one perspective. Writing from more than one perspective means telling the story from at least two characters' viewpoints and relating them to each other. Although they can be difficult to write, multiple POVs can be beneficial for some stories, as long as they don't confuse the reader. Read on for 5 tips on how to write from different perspectives.
Why Would You Use Multiple Perspectives?
Novels with more than one viewpoint let readers understand the story through multiple pairs of eyes. Though writing more than one perspective takes time, understanding, and patience, it can be done! Sometimes stories are so complex and expansive that multiple POVs are valuable, but there are also other reasons authors choose to write from more than one perspective:
To develop plot twists/ suspense.
To see the story through more than one character's mind.
To create complexity.
To keep the narrative interesting and engaging.
To span a wide range of time and history.
Create Individual Character Voices
Stories with multiple POVs are centered around characters and how different characters interact. When writing multiple perspectives, make sure that each character has their own voice and personality. If all the perspectives sound the same, there is no need to have more than one POV. Similar-sounding characters will contribute to bored and uninterested readers. Plus they won't appear real or relatable. Give each of your characters individual personalities, quirks, and opinions to ensure they stand out and engage readers.
Clearly Identify When The Perspective Shifts
Every time you switch perspectives, make it clear to the reader. As soon as the point of view changes make sure readers can tell, or they'll be confused by who is speaking and become distracted from the plot. To ensure readers understand the chosen perspective, give each character a specific voice, title the chapter with the character's name or have one character speak from the present tense and one character speak from the past tense. You may also consider creating a pattern for the perspective changes, so readers know what to expect for each chapter. Your readers shouldn't have to search to figure out who is speaking, instead, it should be obvious in some way.
Don't Have Too Many Characters
When switching from different perspectives it can be confusing for the reader, especially when there are an extreme amount of characters. When writing from multiple perspectives, limit the number of characters to a maximum of 5, especially if you are a beginning writer. If you include more than 5 points of view, readers may feel overwhelmed and confused, making it difficult to connect with each character. Rather than splintering your story with too many characters, evaluate each character and make sure they have a purpose.
Keep Track Of The Characters
It is essential that when writing a multiple-POV novel you take notes and understand the timeline for each character. Having a guide and taking notes will assure characters don't repeat themselves or end up in situations they were not supposed to be in. Writing from multiple perspectives is tricky, especially for keeping track of where different characters are and what they are doing. Although your notes don't have to be highly detailed, you must have some sort of plan to organize your timeline and characters.
Consider A "Main Character"
Honing into a specific character isn't necessary but it can be helpful. Choosing one character as the main character means they will be featured more often and receive more chapters from their perspective than other POV characters. This character will be the one whose character arc is most followed and focused on. To choose which character will serve this purpose, think about what character has the most to lose. Whichever character has the highest stakes and most to lose, will be intriguing to readers. Action-filled characters will also have interesting thoughts and reactions. If you are slightly overwhelmed while writing a multiple-perspective novel, contemplate having one central character and other secondary POV characters.
Changing the point of view in your novel keeps readers engaged and creates a layer of fun in your novel! Although it can be hard, especially for beginning writers, it isn't impossible. I hope these 5 tips help create your perfect multiple-POV novel.
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