Episode at a glance:

 

[02:04] Different Interpretations 

Multiple viewpoints can offer different interpretations of the same event. The story isn’t filtered through one character’s viewpoint. It’s filtered through several, with each of them getting approximately equal narrative space, and providing a different angle. This is usually effective in the aftermath of a tragic event.

[03:34]  Your Story Has Multiple Timelines

Multiple points of view are useful with non-linear structures that move between multiple timelines and characters. With these structures, we dip into various timelines in the lives of several characters, oscillating  back and forth across a central event.

[05:14] You Have Subplots

Subplots are mini-plots that amplify the main plot by either contrasting with the main plot or mirroring it. They involve secondary characters and typically take up less narrative space than the main plot. but these perspectives must show a different angle or impact the story’s trajectory in some way.

[08:22] You Have Co-Protagonists 

With co-protagonists, each of the two characters get approximately equal narrative space. Unlike omniscience, where one character’s point of view is the focal point, with co-protagonists, one character is not more important than the other.

[08:22] Alternate Points Of View

Start a new scene or chapter each time you switch point of view.

[11:09]  Add Something New

Each point of view character should add deeper insight, new information, clues, and revelations around the story’s central event.

[11:36] Narrative Arc

Each point of view character has their own narrative arc.

[11:56] Story Purpose

Each point of view characters must have a purpose. That purpose is not to explain the plot. Every character in your story must have some impact, big or small, on your character’s plight.

 

Links Mentioned In This Episode

Episode 68: How To Use Subplots To Amplify Your Novel

The Sweet Hereafter by Russell Banks

Station Eleven  by Emily St. John Mandel

Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates

You Are Here by David Nicholls

 

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