Skillful scene openings for fiction

Skillful scene openings involve more than a provocative opening hook. A smooth opening ushers readers into the scene without immersion-breaking confusion or disorientation.

The first technique helps you judge the most effective point to enter and leave the scene. The screenwriting adage go in late, get out early helps you give readers the best parts of the story, rather than handfuls of connective tissue.

The second scene opening technique grounds readers in the framework of the scene. Where do they stand in relation to what’s happening in time, place, and perspective? These are the 3 Ws of scene opening: Who, Where, and When are the characters in relation to readers?

Read about both techniques at Writers Helping Writers—

Lisa Poisso, Editor and Book Coach

Understanding how stories work changes everything. I’ll show you how to back up your creative instincts so your ideas hit home. It’s time to accelerate your journey from aspiring writer to emerging author.

Ready to get serious about your book? Apply to work with me.


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