Hey fellow writers!
Welcome to the IABX Wednesday Writing Tip! Today, we're diving into 10 Ways to Start Your Story Better. A good opening line grabs attention and sets the tone for your story. Here are 10 simple tips from author Jacob M. Appel to help you start your story off right:
Here are 10 ways to do it:
1. Build Momentum
The first cardinal rule of opening lines is that they should possess most of the individual craft elements that make up the story as a whole. An opening line should have a distinctive voice, a point of view, a rudimentary plot, and some hint of characterization. By the end of the first paragraph, we should also know the setting and conflict, unless there is a particular reason to withhold this information.
2. Resist the Urge to Start Too Early
Don’t begin your narrative before the action starts, such as when a character wakes up. Often, starting this way means you're writing your way into the narrative rather than letting the story develop its own momentum. Begin at the first moment of large-scale conflict instead.
3. Remember That Small Hooks Catch More Fish Than Big Ones
Large hooks can easily disappoint readers if the subsequent narrative doesn’t measure up. Begin with a hook that’s compelling but not overwhelming. A small, intriguing hook can pull readers in effectively.
4. Open at a Distance and Close In
Most readers prefer to be grounded in context and then focus in. Start your story by providing context before zooming in on specific details.
5. Avoid Getting Ahead of Your Reader
Ensure your opening line makes sense on its own. Additional information should add depth but not be necessary for initial understanding. Don’t confuse your readers right from the start.
6. Start with a Minor Mystery
Presenting readers with a puzzle can be highly effective, especially if the narrator is also puzzled. This can make the reader and narrator partners in uncovering the mystery.
7. Keep Talk to a Minimum
If you start with dialogue, provide enough context to make it understandable. Avoid long sequences of dialogue at the beginning, as they can be hard to follow without context.
8. Be Mindful of What Works
Read the opening sentences of stories in anthologies like The Best American Short Stories. Exposure to effective openings by other writers can help you learn and improve your own.
9. When in Doubt, Test Several Options
Try different opening sentences and get feedback from friends and family. Sometimes a seemingly perfect opening line can be improved upon.
10. Revisit the Beginning Once You Reach the End
Often, a story evolves during the writing process. Reconsider your opening line once the final draft is complete to ensure it still fits the story.
A strong opening line won't make your story great on its own, but it will help grab attention in a crowded field. Make your first sentence count!
Happy Writing!
From IABX
***Source: Writers Digest
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