From which perspective do you like to read your books

**The Stranger** · 08-07-2007, 15:49

Which perspective do you like best. The 1st, aka I do, 2nd, aka he/name does. Or third, the writer/readers knows everything that everyone is thinking and doind in the story.

I personally like 2nd best because I think 3rd is just unrealistic and 1st is rather dull, its always I this, I that. Though now i'm writing a story and 1st seems quite appealing.

**Lemur** · 08-07-2007, 16:07

It really depends on the book and story, doesn't it? Some stories work better from the first person perspective, while others work better from the third. Second-person perspective, however, is rarely engaging.

**The Stranger** · 08-07-2007, 16:21

your right about that... though in my oppinion its the other way around... 3rd is rarely engaging while i like 2nd best 1st is nice at times too... What I do like though, but only when done right, is switching between those perspectives... i one can do that properly, I truly respect him

**Lemur** · 08-07-2007, 17:00

Hmm, allow me to clarify, 'cause I think we may be using terms differently.

First person: "I ran home crying like a sissy to mama."

Second person: "You ran home crying like a sissy to mama."

Third person: "Lemur ran home crying like a sissy to mama."

**English assassin** · 08-07-2007, 17:07

Generally lying down in the bath.

**Craterus** · 08-07-2007, 17:16

I agree with Lemur. Second-person narrative uses "you" mostly and I don't think it's very effective for stories and novels. I thought second-person was strictly for recipe/guide books, but maybe that's just in English.

I don't particularly have a preference between 1st and 3rd. It depends on the genre.