Beginning a Narrative Prematurely: An Overview of Common Errors in Storytelling

In the realm of literature, the art of storytelling is a delicate balance between immersion and information. A prime example of this can be found in Kameron Hurley's book "God's War", where the author throws readers into an unusual world with minimal explanation.

This approach, while unconventional, can be a refreshing change for readers accustomed to lengthy introductions and tedious info-dumps. However, it's a fine line to walk, as beginning a story too early can lead to scenes of characters going through daily routines, or worse, characters talking about their pasts, jobs, relationships, and problems.

Captain Hook's advice to skip the prologue resonates here, as starting too early can result in scenes with no conflict, which can be dull and unengaging. If you find yourself bored by the opening scenes of your story, or if your beta readers express similar sentiments, it might be time to consider editing out the boring filler.

The question then arises: should you start your story as close as possible to the first meaningful conflict? The answer is a resounding yes. Readers can survive with surprisingly little information in the first chapter, and trusting them to catch up without spoon-fed exposition can make for a more immersive experience.

The Structuring Your Novel Workbook can be a helpful tool in finding and shaping the strongest beginning for a book. By asking yourself if the first event in your story that excites you is located within the first chapter, or if the protagonist is interacting with an interesting and plot-crucial character, you can ensure your story starts with a bang.

Ultimately, it's important to remember that cutting nonessential meandering is crucial, even though it may be necessary for writing. By starting your story close to the first meaningful conflict, you can captivate your readers from the very first page, just like Kameron Hurley did with "God's War".

So, the next time you're editing your manuscript, consider if you should avoid opening chapters filled with routines, info-dumps, or long lead-ups. Your readers will thank you for it.