Hi Writers!

I am always interested in how others think when they write stories. Some people believe that a good storyteller is born with it, and others think it's something that can be taught... hey, I got a degree in Creative Writing but I don't think that is where my storytelling magic comes from. 

So, over the next few weeks, I am going to look at different aspects of storytelling, such as Pace, Character Development, Plot Structure, Tension and Conflict, Reader Expectations and Engagement and more.

What is pacing in a story? 

Pacing is the speed at which events unfold in a story. It is the rhythm of the narrative.

Why is pacing important?

Because it is how the reader receives information, your events should unfold swiftly and quickly when you want the reader to feel flustered and hurried in a thriller. If you want something that pulls on the heartstrings in a romance story, then you describe each meeting in detail, and tell the story slowly so that it sits with your readers. 

What's a good way to tell you are pacing the story well?

Read the story out loud! It is amazing how much you learn about what your readers will experience if you read the story out. You will pick up where things feel rushed, where you need to add more words or what you need to change. 

Do you think about pacing when you write your stories?