Writing a story from multiple points of view (POV) can be a powerful way to give readers a deeper understanding of your characters and plot. When done well, it allows you to explore different perspectives, build suspense, and reveal key information gradually. However, writing in multiple POVs can be challenging, as it requires careful planning and execution to avoid confusing or overwhelming your readers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of writing in multiple POVs and provide tips to help you master this technique.
What is Multiple POV?
Multiple POV means telling a story through the perspectives of two or more characters. Each character gets their own narrative voice, and the story shifts between these characters throughout the book. This can be done in several ways:
- Alternating Chapters: Each chapter is narrated from a different character’s perspective.
- Sections or Parts: The book is divided into sections, with each section focusing on a different character’s POV.
- Scene Changes: Shifts in POV can happen within chapters, with clear breaks between scenes.
Why Use Multiple POVs?
- Deeper Character Development: Multiple POVs allow readers to get inside the minds of different characters, giving them a more rounded understanding of each character’s motivations, thoughts, and emotions.
- Enhanced Storytelling: Different characters may experience the same event in unique ways, offering varied insights that can enrich the narrative.
- Building Suspense and Tension: Switching between POVs can create suspense, as each character may have access to different pieces of information, leaving readers eager to see how these viewpoints converge.
Tips for Writing in Multiple POVs
1. Decide Why You Need Multiple POVs
Before you start writing, ask yourself why your story needs multiple perspectives. What will each POV bring to the table? Every character should have a unique voice and perspective that contributes to the overall plot. If a character’s POV doesn’t add value, it may be better to focus on fewer perspectives.
2. Create Distinct Voices for Each Character
One of the biggest challenges of writing in multiple POVs is making sure each character has a distinct, recognizable voice. If all your characters sound the same, readers might get confused. To differentiate voices:
- Vary Language and Tone: Think about how each character speaks. Some might use formal language, while others are more casual. Consider their vocabulary, sentence structure, and rhythm.
- Reflect Their Background and Personality: A character’s background, personality, and experiences will shape how they see the world. Make sure this is reflected in their inner thoughts and dialogue.
- Use Different Focal Points: Each character should focus on different things based on their personality. For example, a detail-oriented character might notice small things others overlook, while a more impulsive character might focus on action.
3. Plan When to Switch POVs
Switching between POVs should be done intentionally, not randomly. Consider the following:
- Smooth Transitions: Make sure readers know whose head they’re in right away. You can do this by clearly labeling chapters or using the character’s name early in the scene.
- Avoid Mid-Scene POV Shifts: Changing POVs within a single scene can be confusing unless it’s done very carefully. If you need to switch, use a clear scene break or chapter break.
- Use POV Shifts to Build Tension: Shifting to a new POV can be a great way to introduce a cliffhanger or keep readers engaged. For example, you can end a chapter with a tense moment, then switch to a different POV to keep readers in suspense.
4. Choose the Right Number of POV Characters
While it may be tempting to include many perspectives, having too many POVs can make the story feel cluttered. Limit the number of characters to those who are essential to the plot. Each POV should have a distinct role in advancing the story or revealing key information.
5. Develop Each Character Equally
When writing multiple POVs, make sure all your main characters are well-developed. Readers should be able to connect with each character, so give them enough backstory, personality, and motivation.
- Balance Screen Time: Try to balance how often you switch to each character’s POV. If one character’s perspective dominates, it might make the others feel less important.
- Keep Storylines Interconnected: Even if characters are experiencing different events, their stories should be connected in a meaningful way. This keeps the narrative cohesive and helps readers see how the different perspectives contribute to the overall plot.
6. Establish Clear Labels or Cues
To avoid confusing your readers, make sure it’s always clear who is narrating. There are several ways to do this:
- Chapter or Section Titles: Include the character’s name at the start of each chapter or section.
- Consistent Naming: Use consistent cues to indicate a POV shift, such as writing in first-person for one character and third-person for another, or using different fonts (though this should be done carefully).
- Narrative Voice: Ensure the narrative voice is distinct enough that readers can identify the character through their tone and perspective alone.
Examples of Effective Multiple POVs
- “Game of Thrones” by George R.R. Martin: The series uses multiple POVs to tell a sprawling, epic story. Each chapter is dedicated to a different character’s perspective, and the various POVs help reveal different aspects of the plot and world.
- “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins: This novel alternates between three female characters, each providing a unique view of the events. The use of different POVs adds to the suspense and allows readers to piece together the mystery.
- “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern: This novel shifts between multiple characters, offering various perspectives that gradually come together to reveal the full story.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Head-Hopping: Switching between characters’ thoughts without a clear break can confuse readers. Stick to one character’s POV at a time, and make it clear when you’re switching.
- Similar Voices: If your characters sound too similar, readers may not realize a shift has occurred. Make sure each character has a unique way of speaking and thinking.
- Unnecessary POVs: Don’t include a POV just because it’s interesting. Each perspective should add something essential to the plot. If a character’s POV isn’t contributing, it might be better to remove it.
Conclusion
Writing in multiple points of view can add depth and complexity to your story, allowing readers to see the world through different characters’ eyes. However, it’s important to approach this technique with intention and care. By developing distinct voices, planning your POV shifts, and ensuring each perspective adds value to the narrative, you can create a compelling and cohesive story that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.