Setting up Your Story/Blog

Every good piece of writing, whether it’s a business letter, a blog or a book, has a beginning, middle and end. To avoid losing your reader, you have to capture their interest in the first few sentences. After choosing a compelling theme, (see last week’s tip on examples of themes) you must then set the scene. 

1. A good setup clues the reader into what to expect
2. Introduces the main character and what that character wants or, the idea offered
3. And gives a glimpse into the conflict or the path the character is taking for a resolution.

Example:

“Is this how I will remember him? As I watch him lying vanquished, defeated by the one thing even he could not outmaneuver. I understand I will have to choose my memories carefully now. There are simply too many.” These are the first lines in The Aviator’s Wife, novel based on the story of Charles Lindbergh through the eyes of his wife.

What does this tell us? I’ll let you answer that question. Your story may be more or less dramatic, but the reader must know the direction you are going in so they can follow you with ease.

Example:

In 2005 I wasn’t actively looking for my life to change—not that much anyway. But I did have that feeling, “Is this all there is?” From my last book and an article I wrote, “What if the Problem’s Not the Problem???”

Do you know the direction this blog or book is taking?

Example:

You are the result of your choices. There are three important habits to choose if you want to live a long, healthy, productive life with ease and grace. It’s really simpler than you can imagine.

This I made up. But by now, I think you get the drift.

Creating a compelling setup is paramount for capturing your reader, letting them know what they can expect and still keeping them in suspense, wanting more.

Enjoy!