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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the introduction to a narrative story?
What is the primary function of the introduction to a narrative story?
What is one of the critical functions of dialogue in a narrative?
What is one of the critical functions of dialogue in a narrative?
What distinguishes a great introduction to a narrative story?
What distinguishes a great introduction to a narrative story?
What are three interesting ways to hook readers in an introduction to a narrative story?
What are three interesting ways to hook readers in an introduction to a narrative story?
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What is the main purpose of presenting the 'feel' of the story in the introduction to a narrative?
What is the main purpose of presenting the 'feel' of the story in the introduction to a narrative?
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What does dialogue allow in a well-written narrative?
What does dialogue allow in a well-written narrative?
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What is the purpose of starting a new paragraph for each change of speaker in dialogue?
What is the purpose of starting a new paragraph for each change of speaker in dialogue?
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What is the function of an ellipsis (...) in dialogue?
What is the function of an ellipsis (...) in dialogue?
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What is the role of sensory language in narrative writing?
What is the role of sensory language in narrative writing?
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Why is it important to choose specific words in narrative writing?
Why is it important to choose specific words in narrative writing?
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What is the significance of using taglines to identify each speaker in dialogue?
What is the significance of using taglines to identify each speaker in dialogue?
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Why should writers avoid using common verbs such as 'to be' in narrative writing?
Why should writers avoid using common verbs such as 'to be' in narrative writing?
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What does using an em dash (—) in dialogue typically indicate?
What does using an em dash (—) in dialogue typically indicate?
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What is the main purpose of punctuation marks in dialogue?
What is the main purpose of punctuation marks in dialogue?
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How do commas contribute to dialogue?
How do commas contribute to dialogue?
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What is the function of quotation marks around spoken words in dialogue?
What is the function of quotation marks around spoken words in dialogue?
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How does natural dialogue differ from incessant speech?
How does natural dialogue differ from incessant speech?
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In which part of a narrative does most of the action happen?
In which part of a narrative does most of the action happen?
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Study Notes
Introduction to a Narrative Story
- The primary function of the introduction is to draw the reader into the story and establish the narrative's tone.
- A great introduction distinguishes itself by setting up the story's central conflict, introducing the main character, and establishing the narrative's tone.
- Three interesting ways to hook readers in an introduction include:
- Starting with a provocative statement or question
- Introducing an interesting or unusual character
- Setting the story in a unique or evocative environment
Dialogue in Narrative
- One of the critical functions of dialogue is to reveal character traits, emotions, and relationships.
- Dialogue allows the writer to convey subtle information about the characters and their relationships.
- The main purpose of presenting the 'feel' of the story in the introduction is to establish the narrative's tone and atmosphere.
- Starting a new paragraph for each change of speaker in dialogue helps to clarify who is speaking and avoids confusion.
- An ellipsis (...) in dialogue indicates a pause or trailing off in speech.
- Taglines are used to identify each speaker in dialogue, and it is significant to choose specific words to avoid ambiguity.
- Writers should avoid using common verbs such as 'to be' in narrative writing as they can lead to dull, unengaging descriptions.
Punctuation and Language in Narrative
- The role of sensory language in narrative writing is to create vivid descriptions that engage the reader's senses.
- Choosing specific words in narrative writing is important as it helps to create a precise and evocative atmosphere.
- Using an em dash (—) in dialogue typically indicates a break in thought or an interruption.
- The main purpose of punctuation marks in dialogue is to clarify the rhythm and flow of speech.
- Commas contribute to dialogue by separating clauses and phrases, making the speech easier to follow.
- Quotation marks around spoken words in dialogue indicate that someone is speaking.
Natural Dialogue
- Natural dialogue differs from incessant speech in that it is concise, relevant, and revealing of character traits.
- Most of the action in a narrative typically happens in the rising action section, which follows the introduction and sets up the climax.
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Description
Learn about writing compelling narrative story introductions that prepare readers for the upcoming conflict and action, while setting the scene and introducing the main characters. Understand how to create a captivating 'feel' without giving away too much, to engage readers from the very beginning.