Hello again. Looking for pointers here, not sure if there is a hard and fast rule, still learning. (not meant as joke) in my first chapter an accident takes place and I feel to make it work it has to be seen from a number of points of view, literal points of view. so with each flip back to the beginning for the next pov do I place *** in the centre of the page between the close of one pov and the opening of the next? I do hope that is clear, it is to me but then I know what I mean!
Thank you again in advance. Regards Paul G
Thank you Adrian. I think unfortunately I probably didn't make myself clear. The novel is finished and the first chapter sets up the way the protagonist meets the antagonist during an out of body experience. It was just a little clarity on the use of asterix to change from POVs but after consideration and advice I am leaving them out as really they are more for a time change aren't they. But thank you for taking the time to offer some more good advice. I have been so lucky with advice from everyone that has taken the time to help. Again Thanks regards Paul.
Hi Paul.
'in my 'first chapter' an accident takes place and I feel to make it work it has to be seen from a number of points of view'
I don't know how many points of view you are referring to. However, I would be wary of repetition, and introducing to many characters in the first chapter. As its the first chapter, obvious aspects spring to mind. Steam in medias res on the first page, introduce the protagonist and no more than two or three other characters, ground the reader in the time and place that your novel is set. I would keep the first chapter protagonist centric, without to many camera swings.
An accident is a good place to start a novel. Apart from the shock, horror displayed by bystanders, an accident raises many questions. The extent of the person's injuries. The effect on family, friends and work colleagues. You could even have individual chapters for each persons point of view about the accident. The effect on everyones lives. How their world's have fallen apart. But here I am only guessing as to your intentions.
Only you know your novel. You have to decide what parts earn their keep. Do they add to the plot and storyline? Do they advance the plot and storyline? Do they slow the pace down or add intrigue to keep the pages turning.
Henry James said he would draw a circle round his novel and decide what stays and what is cut.
I hope that helps.
Good luck.
Thanks again Lorraine. Yes it is the hard part losing stuff that is fine and it makes sense but doesn't necessarily (had to use spell check there) need to be in. I suppose it is trying to look at your own work as a reader and not the writer. It is a lesson I am learning, not easy for me as I have explained but one has to get on and finish at least one of the novels on the go.
Regards Paul