Multiple POV's May Not Be A Good Idea For Your Story

As writers, we’re often tempted to explore every character’s perspective, diving into their thoughts and emotions to create a rich, layered narrative. While multiple points of view (POVs) can add depth and complexity to a story, there comes a point where too many perspectives can backfire.

 

At a meeting of my local writer's group, we discussed one members story. She's writing fantasy and her current manuscript has eight POVs.

 

When I heard this a bunch of red flags went off in my head. While I'm not a fantasy genre expert, I do know how difficult it is to write a large number of POVs well. 

 

My first story, it had five POVs. While that didn't make it a bad story, it did create its own set of challenges.

 

One of the biggest issues with having too many POVs is that it can make it difficult for readers to form strong emotional connection. Readers get invested in characters, especially when they're able to be in those character's heads and experience things from their perspective. They're able to experience the character's struggles, emotions, and motivations first hand. Constantly shifting perspectives can dilute that connection.

 

Jumping POVs, also known as head hopping, can also be disorienting to the reader. Even if chapters are clearly marked, it can create a disconnect which may lead to confusion or frustration.

 

Managing so many POVs can all so present pacing challenges. If every character gets equal time, chances are some situations will need to be rehashed multiple times. This slows down the progression of the story and could lead to readers skimming over entire sections, or even DNF'ing the book.

 

Are there stories out there that do have eight or more POVs? Of course. The first one that comes to mind is Game of Thrones. But it isn't the norm for one simple reason: finding the right balance and doing it well isn't easy.

 

Finding the right balance is key. For most stories, two or three POVs is all you need. This allows for deeper character development, stronger emotional connections, and a more natural flow to the story.

 

If you're considering writing a book with five or more POVs, ask yourself if all of those perspectives are truly essential. Are they all driving the story forward? If not, it may be time to rethink whether their POV is really needed.