Module 3 - Lessons 3.04 through 3.06

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.