The Structure of a Novel
The structure of a novel is important and can include many things. The length of a work is a part of that structure. Your own work may be a novel-length book, it may be a shorter novella, or it could be a short story. You should consider your story before you start writing. When it’s finished, will it be a novel? If not, and your goal is to write a novel, you may have to rethink or expand your story.
Structure also refers to the form your novel takes. A typical novel is full of paragraphs, chapters and descriptive writing. However, some ‘novels’ are really written in the form of a diary or journal. I’ve even read a story that was only a series of letters exchanged by two different characters. If a certain form fits your story, feel free to use it.
The Plot of a Novel
Plot is essential to all novels. Something has to happen, or you’re just writing with no real point or end in sight. Creating an engaging plot will keep your readers coming back for more. Take some time to develop your basic plot and the conflicts that make up that plot. Sure, things can change over the course of the novel, and your plot may alter dramatically, but you need somewhere to start.
The Setting of a Novel
The setting of your novel must work for your story. It should somehow match the mood and pacing of your plot, and your characters need to fit in this setting. These things remain true whether your setting is a single room, the entire planet, or some fantastical world you’ve invented. Your setting needs to be consistent and make sense to your audience.
The Characters of a Novel
Without at least a character or two, there’s no story. Characters and plot are the two backbones of any novel, so neither one can be ignored. However, there is such a thing as too many characters. A novel isn’t a movie, so keep your cast limited to those people you need, and send the extras home. You don’t want to confuse your audience.
Your audience needs insight into these characters. The people in your story need to have depth and a past, and your readers must be able to relate to at least one of your many characters. If you want your readers to love a character, you’ll have to make that character loveable. If you want them to hate a character, try to make that character truly detestable.
The Point of View of a Novel
The point of view from which you tell your story will drastically affect how it’s told, and how it is understood by your readers. Each point of view has its own advantages, but also comes with its own challenges. You should choose the point of view that best suits your story.
A story written from the first person point of view is told through a single character, using the pronoun ‘I’ quite frequently. Your audience will know what that character is thinking, feeling, and experiencing. However, they will know nothing that the character doesn’t know. This point of view can draw the individual into the story quickly and easily.
Second person, utilizing the pronoun ‘you’ with great frequency, is used very rarely when writing a novel. Using this form when crafting your story may confuse your readers, simply because they are not used to it. However, if you feel that your story needs the second person to be told effectively, and you think you can manage it, feel free to experiment with this point of view.
Third person is the most common point of view when writing a novel. It is highly versatile and effective for telling most stories. From this point of view, your readers can be exposed to the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of any character in the book. This allows you, as a writer, to fully develop and explore individual characters, and to expand side plots that do not necessarily involve your main character directly.
Once you grasp the fundamentals, you can begin to write your masterpiece. Take your time, absorb any hints or tips for aspiring writers, and allow your story to develop. With time and perseverance, you will master the basics of writing a novel.
