Does anyone have any views on writing in the first person, present...there are several young adult books out there written this way, notably the Hunger Games. I personally enjoy reading SOME books written this way.
My first attempt at writing was in the close third/ past tense. I decided it didn't work well with the story I was telling so I switched to the first person point of view. Somehow without quite realising it my story fell into the present tense, and now I'm worried.
I get the impression only experienced writers can write in the present tense, first person, and most people hate this type of writing. In fact the more I try to get a POV on this, the more I hear it is madness for a novice to attempt this method. Sadly I have spent 8 months writing nearly the whole first draft this way...am I wasting my time here...
HELP
It'a really easy. You just have to show their fears, their desires, more then when you ride in the 3' person!
Hi Sarah :) I've written my books in this way. So I don't think you're wasting your time at all.
You just have to keep the prose tight. And keep a handle on showing rather than telling. There's always a risk with explaining things too much. What I kept in mind was remembering to trust my readers. They don't need to know 'I explode with hatred'. By simply saying 'I explode' is adequate and leaves it open to interpretation.
I've really enjoyed writing in this way, especially when my editor pointed out how succinct the hunger games is, and I was able to trim down 7k words.
I'll add you and message you part of my book if you like. I can't post it online because it's been requested by an agency. Xx
PS I have added a bit of my writing as an example of what I mean...thank you for reading