Writing a Successful Narrative

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of writing fiction. Specifically the writer discusses six techniques for writing a successful narrative, applying these techniques to the short story 'Two Ways of Seeing a River' by Mark Twain. The writer notes that writing a successful narrative depends on several key factors, including a detailed description, a compelling opening, and dramatic action. The writer maintains that by following these techniques, just about anyone can write a successful and compelling narrative. The writer concludes that writing a successful narrative is easier when the writer understands the key techniques that make a narrative compelling and readable. These elements of the narrative are common to all good narratives and include rich and sensory details, a logical progression of events and a basic understanding of literature and literary techniques.

From the Paper:

"He relates the main occurrences in the order they occurred, but he does use flashbacks in the story to add the rich details and continue reader interest. While the events should follow a logical progression, adding flashbacks can add to the diversity and interest of the narrative and keep the reader interested and anticipating what happens next.
"In addition, the scenes should relate to a specific time and space. In Twain's essay, he writes of a specific time when he piloted a riverboat, before he became a famous author. His essay is a memory, but it takes place in a specific time and place, which helps the reader feel more comfortable and familiar with the setting when they read the work."

Sample of Sources Used:

• DeSoto, M. (2005). Writing a narrative essay. Retrieved 19 Jan. 2008 from the Glendale Community College Web site: http://glory.gc.maricopa.edu/~mdesoto/101online_new/assignment3writing.htm
• Editors. (2008). Writing activities: Narrative. Retrieved 19 Jan. 2008 from the Holt, Rinehart and Winston Web site: http://my.hrw.com/support/hos/hostwritingactivities4/hostswritingact4_narr4.html
• How to write a narrative. (2008). Retrieved 19 Jan. 2008 from the Northern Illinois University Web site: http://www.engl.niu.edu/wac/narr_how.html
• Montgomery, J. K., & Kahn, N. L. (2003). You are going to be an author: Adolescent narratives as intervention. Communication Disorders Quarterly, 24(3), 143+.
• Twain, M. (2008). Two ways of seeing a river. Retrieved 19 Jan. 2008 from the About.com Web site: http://grammar.about.com/od/60essays/a/twowaysessay.htm

More papers on Writing a Successful Narrative:

• Book Review # 98587 : "Edgar Allen Poe's Writing"
• Analytical Essay # 24062 : "Pride and Prejudice"
• Book Review # 108990 : "To The Lighthouse"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: