5 Elements of a Riveting First Scene

How do you write a riveting first scene? How do you keep readers leaning in, eager to learn what might happen next.

Your first scene is crucial. It’s what sets your story in motion. So you want to craft this scene with intention.

In this episode, we’ll break down 5 core elements of a great first scene.

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Here’s a glance at this episode:

[1:24] The difference between a prologue and a first scene.

Prologues are a conversation for another day, but prologues and first scenes are two totally different things. A prologue gives your reader essential information that doesn’t fit into the linear chronology of the story. A first scene is crucial to setting your plot in motion.

[3:49] Setting

Learn how to bring concrete details into the action to create a vibrant, convincing sense of place and culture.

[5:34] Significant Situation

Also known as the inciting incident, this is the point from no return for your protagonist. It’s what sets your story in motion. Learn how to craft a situation that gives your reader momentum and curiosity.

[13:05] Pacing

First scenes typically move at a faster clip. And that’s because you need to hook the reader into the action. Learn how to pace your scene according to emotional tone, and how to slip in backstory and exposition without snoozing your reader.

[18:52] Dramatic Tension

Learn how to hint at conflict and complications to come using juxtaposition and subtext to foreshadow trouble ahead. I’ll deconstruct a scene excerpt from Neil Gaimon to show how to throw your reader off balance, stoke their curiosity, and urge them further into the scene.