Lecture #4: Viewpoint and Q&A — Brandon Sanderson on Writing Science Fiction and Fantasy

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore key concepts from Brandon Sanderson's fourth lecture on writing science fiction and fantasy. The focus will be on viewpoint in storytelling, which is crucial for shaping how readers experience a narrative. Additionally, we will cover valuable insights from the Q&A session that can enhance your writing skills.

Step 1: Understanding Viewpoint

Viewpoint refers to the perspective from which a story is told. Choosing the right viewpoint is essential for engaging readers and effectively conveying the narrative.

• Types of Viewpoints:

  • First Person: Narrator is a character in the story, using "I" or "we." This creates intimacy but limits knowledge to the narrator's experiences.
  • Third Person Limited: Narrator is outside the story but closely follows one character's thoughts and experiences. This allows for more narrative freedom while maintaining some intimacy.
  • Third Person Omniscient: The narrator knows all characters' thoughts and feelings. This provides a broad perspective but can distance readers from individual characters.
  • Second Person: Uses "you" to make the reader feel part of the story. This is less common and can be challenging to maintain.

• Choosing the Right Viewpoint:

  • Consider the story's emotional core and what you want the reader to feel.
  • Experiment with different viewpoints to find the one that best suits your story.

Step 2: Practical Tips for Writing with Different Viewpoints

Once you understand different viewpoints, apply these strategies to your writing.

• First Person Tips:

  • Use a distinctive voice that reflects the character's personality.
  • Show the character's thoughts and emotions through internal dialogue.

• Third Person Limited Tips:

  • Use the character's perspective to reveal their motivations and feelings.
  • Keep the narrative focused on that character to maintain intimacy.

• Third Person Omniscient Tips:

  • Balance the broader perspective with moments of deep character insight.
  • Avoid overwhelming readers with too much information at once.

• Second Person Tips:

  • Use sparingly and only when it enhances the story's impact.
  • Create a strong connection between the reader and the narrative.

Step 3: Engaging with Q&A Insights

The Q&A segment of the lecture provides valuable insights from aspiring writers. Here are some key takeaways:

• Feedback and Revision: Embrace constructive criticism and be open to revising your work based on feedback.
• World-Building: Spend time developing your world. The setting can enhance the story and provide depth to the narrative.
• Character Development: Focus on creating relatable characters. Readers connect with characters who have clear motivations and flaws.

Step 4: Applying What You've Learned

Now, put your knowledge into practice:

• Write a short story using a viewpoint of your choice. Experiment with first person, third person limited, and third person omniscient.
• Gather feedback from peers or writing groups and revise your story accordingly.
• Continue developing your world and characters, focusing on their motivations and backgrounds.

Conclusion

Understanding viewpoint is vital for effective storytelling in science fiction and fantasy. By exploring different viewpoints and applying practical tips, you can enhance your writing. Engage with feedback, focus on world-building, and develop relatable characters to create compelling narratives. Start writing today and refine your craft with each story you tell!