Navigating the Challenges of Using Multiple POVs in Your Story

Master Fiction Writing

In this episode, I discusses the pros and cons of using multiple points of view (POVs) in writing.

• Point of view (POV) is the narrative perspective that guides the reader through the story.
• Multiple POVs can add depth and complexity to a story, but they also come with potential pitfalls.
• Pitfalls of multiple POVs include character chaos, plot complexity, and reader overwhelm.
• Start with one additional POV before diving into multiple POVs.
• Exercises like character journals, dialogue-only scenes, and POV shifts can help in distinguishing character voices and maintaining distinct perspectives.

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:27 The Allure of Multiple POVs

05:05 Pitfalls of POV Polygamy

06:30 Maintaining Character Voice in Third Person

11:33 Exercises to Hone Your Skills

12:53 It's Your Turn

15:48 Deciding Whether to Use Multiple POVs