How to Write Someone Thinking to Themselves
Writing a character’s internal thoughts can be a challenging but rewarding aspect of storytelling. It allows readers to delve into the mind of a character, understanding their motivations, fears, and desires. However, crafting internal thoughts effectively requires a delicate balance between revealing too much and keeping the reader engaged. In this article, we will explore how to write someone thinking to themselves, offering tips and techniques to help you create compelling and authentic inner monologues.
1. Use the First Person Point of View
To write someone thinking to themselves, it’s often most effective to use the first person point of view. This perspective allows readers to directly experience the character’s thoughts and emotions. By using “I,” “me,” and “my,” you can create a more intimate connection between the character and the reader.
2. Keep the Language Natural
When writing internal thoughts, it’s important to use natural language that reflects the character’s personality and background. Avoid using overly complex or formal language, as it can sound unnatural and alienate the reader. Instead, focus on the character’s unique voice and use simple, straightforward sentences.
3. Focus on the Character’s Emotions
Internal thoughts should primarily focus on the character’s emotions and reactions to their surroundings. This helps readers understand the character’s motivations and decisions. When writing a character’s thoughts, ask yourself: What are they feeling? Why are they feeling that way? How does this emotion influence their actions?
4. Use Descriptive Language
To make internal thoughts more engaging, use descriptive language to paint a picture of the character’s emotions. This can include sensory details, metaphors, and similes. For example, instead of simply stating “I am scared,” a character might think, “My heart is pounding like a drum in my chest, threatening to burst out of my ribcage.”
5. Show, Don’t Tell
When writing internal thoughts, it’s crucial to show the character’s emotions rather than telling the reader what they are feeling. This can be achieved by using actions, dialogue, and internal dialogue. For instance, a character might fidget with their fingers, bite their lip, or mutter under their breath to express their anxiety.
6. Keep the Pace Consistent
The pace of internal thoughts should match the pace of the story. If the story is fast-paced, the thoughts should be brief and to the point. Conversely, if the story is more introspective, the thoughts can be longer and more detailed. Maintaining a consistent pace will help readers stay engaged with the character’s inner monologue.
7. Avoid Overusing Internal Thoughts
While internal thoughts can be a powerful tool, it’s important not to overuse them. Too many internal thoughts can become overwhelming and disrupt the flow of the story. Instead, use internal thoughts sparingly to enhance the reader’s understanding of the character and the plot.
In conclusion, writing someone thinking to themselves requires a careful balance between revealing the character’s inner world and maintaining the story’s pace. By using the first person point of view, natural language, and descriptive language, you can create compelling and authentic inner monologues that bring your characters to life. Remember to show, not tell, and use internal thoughts sparingly to keep your readers engaged.
