Navigating Tense Shifts in Fiction: A Guide for Writers
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Understanding Tense Confusion
Does grammar leave you perplexed? As an English major, I often find myself wrestling with certain grammatical rules, with some being more perplexing than helpful. One particular conundrum that frequently arises is the use of simple present tense for universal truths, habits, and constants.
Fiction often unfolds in the past tense, so how should one convey a general truth? Should the narrative switch to present tense, or maintain the past? For instance, in a sentence like: "Jaylen visited us one day. His brother died too young, poor thing, so he wanted us to raise the dead. But necromancy is forbidden." Should we say "is" forbidden or "was" forbidden? Given that necromancy isn't likely to be legalized anytime soon, it represents an unchanging fact. However, would shifting to present tense disrupt the flow?
Honestly, I tend to use whichever tense feels right in the moment, which is perhaps not what an English major should admit.
Insights from Online Discussions
Curiosity led me to search for perspectives on this matter, and I stumbled upon a Reddit discussion addressing the exact issue. The original poster was crafting a novel and found themselves unsure about how to convey a universal truth. Initially, they framed it in the past tense, but it felt misaligned, prompting them to shift to present tense, which felt more natural. They were concerned, however, about how this tense switch might affect reader perception.
The responses provided intriguing insights. One commenter suggested that adages and idioms should remain in present tense, as they transcend the narrative and are timeless. Using past tense implies finality, which doesn't align with the essence of universal truths like "The early bird gets the worm." If a character had success due to being early, saying "the early bird got the worm" would seem odd since the saying retains its relevance regardless of the character's actions.
Another user referenced Jane Austen’s famous line from Pride and Prejudice:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife." Later, Austen transitions to past tense for the narrative, illustrating a seamless blend of tenses without feeling jarring.
Exploring Different Perspectives
Another instance mentioned involved Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris, where Hannibal Lecter's description is presented in the present tense. This unexpected shift within an otherwise past-tense narrative creates an unsettling effect, suggesting that Lecter embodies a truth that transcends time.
Opinions varied among commenters, emphasizing that the choice of tense depends on style, intention, and context. One user even noted the approach of Cormac McCarthy, who often plays with tense but advised caution for those less experienced.
A professional editor chimed in, expressing appreciation for the original poster’s critical thinking about grammatical choices. They acknowledged that many writers, despite understanding the rules, often write with a disregard for them, a sentiment I found both relatable and encouraging.
A Notable Example in Literature
Reflecting on tense shifts, I recalled a powerful moment from Émile Zola's Thérèse Raquin, which is primarily narrated in past tense. However, prior to a pivotal murder scene, Zola switches to present tense, freezing the moment with a vivid description:
"Nothing looks more painfully calm than an autumn twilight. The sun rays pale in the quivering air, the old trees cast their leaves. The country, scorched by the ardent beams of summer, feels death coming with the first cold winds. And, in the sky, there are plaintive sighs of despair. Night falls from above, bringing winding sheets in its shade."
This transition heightens the suspense, making it feel as if time stands still just before the chaos of the murder, reinforcing the sense of impending doom.
Final Thoughts on Tense Usage
Reading through the Reddit thread and revisiting Zola's work provided valuable insights. Here’s what I gathered: use present tense to convey truths that extend beyond the narrative. This applies to proverbs, philosophical reflections, iconic character traits, or even ominous natural events. Yet, one must also consider the auditory appeal—if it sounds right, does the tense truly matter?
Though a technical rule exists, it seems subjective, with writers often bending or breaking norms while still engaging readers. This raises the question: why do we adhere so strictly to grammatical rules when preferences vary widely? Ultimately, grammar serves to enhance clarity and enjoyment for the audience.
In light of this, I believe we shouldn't stress over using present or past tense for general truths in fiction. Shouldn’t we prioritize effective communication over rigid adherence to rules? If readers grasp and appreciate our work, does the specific tense really matter?
Do you agree that we may overthink grammar, when a more relaxed approach could facilitate better communication with our audience? If you crave more thought-provoking discussions about grammar and fiction writing, let's stay connected!