The Root of Past and Present Tense in Writing

When it comes to choosing the tense in which to write a story, many writers often ponder between past and present tense. Each has its unique characteristics, benefits, and nuances. This article explores why and when to use past or present tense in writing, the conventions surrounding their usage, and how to effectively employ them in storytelling.

Conventions and Context

The choice between past and present tense often depends on the medium and the genre of the writing. For instance, novels, especially those intended for a literary audience, frequently opt for past tense for several reasons. It allows the writer to create a sense of distance, a clearer narrative flow, and a deeper connection to the depicted events. However, the decision is not always set in stone. Writers like to experiment and find what best suits the story they are telling.

Screenplays and comic scripts, on the other hand, almost universally utilize present tense. This is because the experience of watching a movie or reading a comic is a temporal one; the audience can visualize the unfolding of the story as it happens. Even flashbacks in these mediums are written in present tense, creating a continuous sense of action and immersion.

Conventions of Fictional Tenses

Fiction, particularly in the realm of literary fiction, can often benefit from past tense. It allows the reader to immerse themselves in the narrative, as if they are part of the fictional world. The writer can craft a more engaging and realistic depiction of the events, making the story more likely to resonate with their audience. However, present tense can work well for specific genres, such as mystery or thriller, where the sense of immediacy and suspense is crucial.

For longer-form fiction, past tense is often preferred. It helps authors to build a cohesive narrative arc, as the events are depicted from a historical or objective perspective. The writer can step into the 'fictional dream' by using past tense, making it easier for readers to navigate the plot and character development. In contrast, short fiction, including literary pieces, might find present tense more effective, especially when the focus is on capturing the essence or mood of a moment in time.

Personal Telling and Documentation

While telling a story often involves the retelling of events that have already occurred, personal thoughts and insights can be best captured in the present tense. It conveys a sense of immediacy and authenticity, especially when the writer is jotting down their reflections in real time. This approach allows the writer to maintain a close connection to their own experiences and emotions.

However, when the writer delves into world-building or character development, past tense is often more suitable. It allows the writer to reflect on and analyze the events more objectively, creating a clearer picture of the character or setting. This technique is also beneficial when describing procedures or steps, such as a recipe or a manual, where a step-by-step, present tense instruction feels more natural.

Conclusion

In summary, the choice between past and present tense in writing largely hinges on the story's context and the writer's desired effect. While there are conventions that guide these choices, ultimately, the writer has the freedom to explore different tenses to best suit their narrative. Whether you opt for past or present tense, it is essential to maintain consistency and clarity to ensure the story flows smoothly and effectively conveys the intended message.

In today's diverse literary landscape, there is a lot to be gained by experimenting with different narrative tenses. This exploration not only enriches the storytelling process but also enhances the connection between the writer and their audience.