Time for your Teacher Thursday Post from Steven James.

Here’s a question writers often ask:

DO I NEED TO START THE STORY WITH THE MAIN CHARACTER?

Steven says,

By introducing a character early on, you make a promise about his meaningful contribution to the story. Unless you include a prologue, readers will assume that the protagonist is the first person introduced in the story. If he’s not, clarify who the main character is as soon as possible.

QUICK FIX: Avoid opening your book from the point of view of someone who ends up being insignificant to the story’s outcome. Reshuffle the opening chapters as necessary to provide promises that are congruous with the story you’re actually telling.

We’ll dive into this deeper next week.

Want even more classes, more tips and guidance at the hand of the master? Then you need to come to the Ecuador Retreat in April, 2019.  We’re taking applications, now. Just now click on this X and follow the directions. Check out the workshops Steven is offering.

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