How to Write a Strong Opening Line
Introduction
The first sentence in a story is called a hook. It is the first impression that a reader will have of your writing, and it is crucial to get it right. A strong opening line can inspire action from the reader, whether that means continuing to read your story, sharing it with others, or even purchasing your book. In this article, we will explore different techniques for writing a strong opening line that will grab your reader's attention and keep them engaged.
The Hook
The opening sentence should be dramatic. It should grab the reader's attention and make them want to keep reading. Full stops are your friends. Short, clear sentences will grab your readers' attention. Use language that will add weight to your sentences, but use your verbs correctly and your adjectives sparingly. Opening lines don't have to be loud; subtlety is just as effective.
Clarity vs. Passion
Don't confuse clarity with passion. While it's important to be clear in your writing, it's equally important to be passionate. Your opening line should convey a sense of excitement and urgency. It should make the reader feel like they are about to embark on an exciting journey.
Ask a Question
Asking a question is a great way to get your reader to think about the topic. It can create curiosity and intrigue, and it can also make the reader feel like they are part of the story. A question hook is when you ask the reader something that they can visualize and try to think of in their own minds. Then, the writer answers the question.
Start with Action
Starting with action is a great way to grab your reader's attention. It can create a sense of urgency and excitement, and it can also help to establish the tone of your story. For example, "Jack hadn't meant for it to happen...".
Introduce Interesting Characters
Introducing characters who are interesting to the reader is another effective way to create a strong opening line. It can create a sense of empathy and connection between the reader and the characters, and it can also make the reader feel invested in the story. For example, "Witches don't exist!" My gran's words echoed around my head as the horrific visage gurned at me through my bedroom window...".
Create Suspense
Creating suspense is a powerful way to keep your reader engaged. It can create a sense of anticipation and excitement, and it can also make the reader feel like they are part of the story. For example, "At first, I couldn't understand why I had woken up - then I felt the icy fingers close around my wrist...". Ten ways to create suspense include building urgency, prompting pressing questions, involving intriguing contexts, introducing striking voices, showing a glimpse of a vivid world, implying past or future danger, creating a ticking clock, using cliffhangers, creating a sense of dread, and using misdirection.
Avoid Tautologies
Avoid tautologies, which are the use of redundant words or phrases. They can make your writing sound repetitive and dull. For example, "The bright sunshine" is a tautology because sunshine is always bright.
Takeaway
In conclusion, a strong opening line is crucial to the success of your writing. It can inspire action from the reader, whether that means continuing to read your story, sharing it with others, or even purchasing your book. By using techniques such as asking a question, starting with action, introducing interesting characters, and creating suspense, you can create a strong opening line that will grab your reader's attention and keep them engaged. Remember to avoid tautologies and to be passionate in your writing.
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