homework 3

Narrative Writing

Narration is, quite simply, storytelling. Human beings tell stories all the time; in fact, narration is

arguably the most important type of writing for you to master. In politics, for example, we often hear

about candidates “controlling the narrative.” Storytelling is compelling and persuasive. We love stories.

That Netflix show you binge on? Likely it has a riveting storyline.

In persuasive or argumentative writing, which we will explore later in the semester, narration can be

used to tug at the heartstrings of readers, to persuade them through real-life examples, or to frame

complex information in an understandable way for readers to connect to.

What are the elements of narrative writing?

1. Narration: basically, telling the story. Moving the story along from beginning to end.

2. Description: giving vivid physical and emotional descriptions; the setting.

3. Dialogue: capturing the real speech of people. In fictional stories or novels, this dialogue is a

creation of the author. In nonfiction, the author either has the exact words people have said or

has the creative license to recreate what people probably said, to the best of the writer’s

recollection.

4. Controlling Theme: this is the main, important idea or message of your narrative piece. This

doesn’t have to be explicitly stated in the paper, but it should be fairly easy for your audience to

understand. In sum, your narrative essay should have a clear point.