Existen distintos tipos de narrador en la literatura. Como sabes, esta figura es esencial en el contexto de una historia. Ten en cuenta que está presente a lo largo de toda la trama. Por tanto, informa al lector de detalles relevantes en relación con el argumento y…
There are different types of narrators in literature. As you know, this figure is essential in the context of a story. Keep in mind that it is present throughout the entire plot. Therefore, it informs the reader of relevant details about the plot and can also hide information from them. Here we provide you with a guide to the different types of narrators so that you know how to differentiate them and how to use them in your stories.
What is the narrator in literature?
First of all, you should know that the narrator is the figure that is integrated into the context of a work. And, as its name indicates, it positively influences the narrative. First of all, it communicates relevant information to the reader. The narrator has his voice. However, his presence takes on different perspectives.
The writer creates all the details of the work. He also decides which type of narrator best fits the characteristics of the composition. In short, his role is key to clarifying and explaining relevant data.
What are the different types of narrators in literature?
As you may already know, there are different types of narrators in literature, each with their characteristics. Below, we will introduce them to you.
First Person Narrator
The narrator is part of the story. In some way, he is related to the most relevant events of the plot. And he is directly involved in what he says. He does not act as an external observer, as in the previous case. On the contrary, his position in the work is internal. Generally, it is one of the protagonists of the plot who also acts as the narrator.
It is a formula that can be found in autobiographical writing. For example, in those works that have the structure of a diary or a succession of letters. Mario Benedetti’s La Tregua is a work told in the first person.
Second Person Narrator
It is not the most commonly used formula in literature. However, it brings a very special nuance to the work. In this case, the narrator constantly addresses the reader. It is a voice that is common in the epistolary genre. As you know, the content of the composition is structured in the form of a letter. A form of written communication that, due to its characteristics, appeals directly to the interlocutor. Despite its positive characteristics, it is one of the least used types of narrator.
Third Person Narrator
Generally, his voice is presented as unrelated to the events of the plot. He is not directly involved in what is happening. However, he knows perfectly well what has happened and also the characters. He does not influence the development of the story with his decisions. Keep in mind that his position is that of an observer. This is a narrator profile that is commonly presented in many classic children’s stories.
What are his characteristics? He is omniscient. This means that he knows absolutely everything about the protagonist and other characters. Even their secrets. In addition, he can delve into their thoughts and feelings. His voice brings an intimate touch to the story. Therefore, he describes the participants in the plot accurately.
The witness narrator
His voice is also developed in the first person. However, the role he takes on in the plot is not that of a protagonist. He is linked to what is happening, but he occupies the position of an external spectator. Someone who witnessed a situation due to a specific circumstance.
As a result, he shares the information with the reader. But the core of what happened revolves around third parties. He does not play a leading role in what is presented, as is the case with the narrator-protagonist. In fact, in the latter case, his comments are accompanied by subjectivity. Well, the voice of the witness narrator is present in the stories of Sherlock Holmes.
Narrator in interior monologue
It is common for the narrator to tell the story in the first, second, or third person. It can also take the form of an interior monologue. In this case, a dialogue takes place with oneself in which the reader participates through reading. When is it used in narration? It is a voice that introduces reflections and thoughts.
As you can see, this is one of the types of narrator that is present in the novel. Through this approach, it is possible to expose the complexity of one of the characters’ thoughts. And, consequently, there is access to the character’s inner world. In this way, the reader discovers how a situation affects the protagonist. That is, he or she not only knows the event that has occurred in the plot. He or she is also aware of its effect on the character’s life.
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Keys to knowing how to define the narrator in a story
To gain a deeper understanding of the content of a work, you can not only carry out a detailed analysis of its characters. You can also identify the presence of the narrator. First, read the work carefully. And then, calmly reread different fragments of the narrative. From what point of view is what happened told? It is one of the first aspects you can identify. To discover the voice used, pay special attention to the verb forms used in the writing. In this way, you can observe if the narrator speaks from one of the following points of view: I, you, or he. That is, first, second, or third person.
Also, ask yourself different questions to determine who the narrator is in the story. Is he or she someone who is part of the plot as an involved party in the story? How much does he or she know about the characters in the story? It is recommended that you make time for reading a regular habit in your life. By coming into contact with different literary genres and authors, you acquire a broader vision of narration.
By consulting different sources, you have the necessary preparation to identify the types of narrators. On the other hand, to go deeper into the work, read specialized reviews on that publication. Through other references, you gain a perspective that allows you to capture new details.
There are therefore different types of narrators in the history of literature. Remember that the writer of a work intentionally chooses the most appropriate formula. Keep in mind that a book can change completely if the tone of the narration is modified.
Examples of each type of narrator
Finally, how about consolidating what we have learned with some examples of each type of narrator? This helps to better understand what each type of narrator is and what their characteristics are.
These are examples of narrators :
First person. “I had a coffee while waiting for Marisa at the station bar. Although she was there for a long time, I didn’t see her appear anywhere, so I had no choice but to leave.”
Second person. “You had a coffee waiting for Marisa at the station bar. Even though you were there for a long time, you didn’t see her appear anywhere, so you had no choice but to leave.”
Third person. “Clara had a coffee while she waited for Marisa at the station bar. Although she was there for a long time, she didn’t see her appear anywhere and finally, she thought she had no choice but to leave.”
Witness narrator: “The woman was sitting in the station bar drinking coffee. She looked like she was waiting for someone, but after a long time looking at the door, she paid and left.”
Inner monologue. “And here I am sitting with another coffee while I wait for Marisa in the same bar at the station. I should know what that girl is like by now because, of course, is this the first time this has happened? But, even so, I stay seated in front of the door, just in case she appears. But minutes pass and nothing, she doesn’t, so I have to pay and leave.”
Using one narrator or another is a very important decision for a writer. Would you like to know how you can make the right choice and enhance your stories with professional tools? Study creative writing and storytelling with Escuela Des Arts and complete your experience as a writer!
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