Tenses

[impala_chick]

+Do you prefer to read/write fic in a certain verb tense? When I first started writing, present tense was a big no-no but now there are many fics written in present tense and I kind of like them. They seem to be easier/faster to read. Maybe it only works well when it's all one person's POV, like a stream of consciousness.

+If you would like a holiday/Christmas card, inbox me your address! :D

Comments

[bond_girl]

I still think that most fics are a whole lot better in the past tense, but present tense can be good when they come with a strong sense of POV driving the story. Present tense lends it a great immediacy, but imo, most of the time you don't need that kind of breathlessness.

Like, not every story is The Catcher in the Rye. Most stories can create the same sense of presence by using different techniques. However, sex scenes are great in present tense and so is internal dialog or an unreliable narrator. So it's all the matter of what's the focus of your fic.

All that said, I won't backbutton out of a present tense or even the first person. A good writer can sell you on a lot!

[impala_chick]

True. Present tense does feel very immediate. I like the idea of using it for internal dialogue or the unreliable narrator. I usually try to give a fic at least the first couple of paragraphs to persuade me, even if it's something I wouldn't normally read. Although I rarely come across first or second Person that I like.

[bond_girl]

And I'm not sure if I'll be doing Christmas cards this year, so I am not being rude and asking for one :p

[impala_chick]

I don't expect one in return! I've already got a stack of cards to use, I would be happy to send you one :)