I can't help but feel the weight of the criticism directed at 2nd person narration, which many regard as an amateur mistake. Yet, there is much more to be said in favor of this middle child of narrative point-of-view. In fact, 2nd person narration often opens up new possibilities for creativity, challenging writers to delve deeper into their storytelling and take risks they otherwise might not have considered. Rather than being seen as the province of beginners, it should be recognized as a valuable literary tool. But first, let’s explore the other children of the point-of-view family, shall we?
3rd person narration
Being the most common point of view in literature, third-person narration is a type of storytelling where the narrator is distinct from the events and characters in the story, describing their actions using names or third-person pronouns such as "he," "she," or "they."
1st person narration
In first-person narration, the narrator is the protagonist in the story and describes the events in a personal manner. They may speak from a first-person perspective, using the pronoun "I". The narrator's perspective and emotional state influence the story's tone, including their opinions, mood, and past experiences. This perspective could also twist their interpretations, resulting in a distorted narrative.
2nd person narration
In comparing 2nd person narration to other forms of storytelling, one key distinction is the targeted audience. While traditional narrative techniques can cater to a wider audience, stories that use 2nd person narration are particularly impactful when read by their protagonist. This approach gives writers the opportunity to connect with their work at a deeper level, leading to more immersive and personal experiences.
While there are certainly exceptions to this rule, such as Jay McInerney's "Bright Lights, Big City" and Tom Robbins' "Half Asleep in Frog Pajamas," I believe the true purpose of writing in the 2nd person is for the writer to communicate with themselves. By using this technique, authors can explore their own emotions and worldviews in a more direct way, creating a richer relationship between the writer and their story.
2nd person narration is a distinct way of storytelling that enables authors to delve deeper into their own identity. Through immersing themselves as the main character, they are able to better understand their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
I assert that 2nd person narration is more than just a personal recounting, but a record of humanity's collective journey. Each person's life transcends the printed page, becoming a chronicle that transcends time and space. Since 2nd person narration often features the protagonist as ourselves, it is not illogical to consider that, if our own existence could be documented in a single narrative, it would be narrated in 2nd person. 2nd person narration is a one-of-a-kind method of storytelling that allows writers to probe their innermost being. It also serves as a testament to the power of storytelling, capturing the essence of human existence and creating a permanent record of our lives.
While the traditional narrative forms are meant for readers to empathize with the main character, 2nd person narration allows readers to make the story special to themselves. The vicissitudes of their life can be exclusive to them, as simple as waking up or commuting to work. Because it is their story, these everyday events can be filled with meaning and significance, making them truly special to the reader.
Rather than being swayed by the opinions of others, it is always better to stay true to your own beliefs. In the case of 2nd person narration, it is not inherently bad, just unique. And as the author of your own story, the opinions of others should have no bearing on your writing style. So when people criticize 2nd person narration, remember that only you can decide what is best for your own narrative.
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