Hello again to all who know more than ME... I am currently redrafting and am now at a stage where the protagonist has travelled back in time to the 1880s, not a problem in itself, he's only there for two chapters. I have realised that when I am using the measurement of distance I am using metric measurements in the narrative. Now this is where I need the help, I think it is correct as the reader will understand better the uptodate expression of measurement, I think! but am I correct, should I be using feet and inches in the narrative as well as conversation? The characters do in conversation but that's then back in the 1880s. So do I continue with the dual system or does the narrative go into character also.
Regards and as usual, thanks in advance, Paul
I think this depends a lot on what you're comfortable with - try reading it through fresh eyes and see how it feels. I recently read a book in which the author obviously decided to make the language up to date in order to help the reader relate to the character more, in spite of the fact that the book was set in the 16th century. This obviously worked for a lot of readers, as it has been a very successful book. However, for me, it backfired, as I felt as though I was constantly being jolted back into the 20th century. So I think you need to really feel yourself into your character and imagine how they would feel and if it rings true to you, then hopefully it will to your audience.
A long as he doesn't go to France... ;)
Your character belongs in the modern day, and so uses metric measurements; the 1880s cast use the measurements true to their era. Should the two cross verbally (because unless it's spoken, neither side would know what the other was using) there needs to be some sort of explanation and translation. This need only happen once, if there's a lot of measuring going on, as both the characters and the reader will have got the message. The odd self-correction - 'metres - I mean, yards' - can be okay, but don't flog it to death.