English 10 NARRATIVE ESSAYS What is a narrative
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English 10 NARRATIVE ESSAYS
What is a narrative essay? An essay that approaches a particular topic by telling a story. The essay topic becomes theme/central idea of your story. Examples: People can create their own reality. Confidence comes from the support of others. Each generation has something valuable to offer. With independence comes increased responsibility.
Elements of a narrative What does a story require? Setting Conflict Character Plot POV As in a story, you need your theme to emerge through the interaction of these elements.
Writing a narrative Introduction Hook the reader Establish setting, conflict, character �Example: �Death is a painfully inevitable part of one’s life. I, unfortunately, was forced to learn this lesson at the tender age of eight when I watched my grandmother succumb to esophageal cancer. In media res (starting in the middle of the action) �Example: �As I laid there, with my face on the cold pavement, all I could hear was a stranger’s voice, yet I was too disoriented to make sense of what he was trying to say; all I could remember was that split second where I saw the headlights coming straight at me.
Writing a narrative cont. Body Paragraphs Climax - Turning point - Point of most intense interest Rising Action - Development of conflict - Conflict intensifies - Show don’t tell Careful selection of details Write in past tense Chronological order - No flashback or premonition - Dialogue - NO 2 nd person POV – 1 st Person Past Tense is best.
Writing a narrative cont. Conclusion Resolution to the conflict which has been the driving force behind your story Make explicit/implicit connection to the essay topic which has become theme of your story
Final tips Brainstorm before starting to write Use description, at certain points, to enhance the reader’s image/understanding/enjoyment of your story If necessary, use dialogue to improve authenticity Dialogue CAN be colloquial A well told narrative can be refreshing for a reader, however, there is such thing as a BAD narrative! (<-- that’s an admonition!) EDIT.
