How can I choose the decorative first word in a story?

It can also set the tone. A word like 'Darkly' can make the reader expect a more somber or mysterious story. The reader starts to form an idea of the mood and genre of the novel just from that first word. This initial impression can influence how they approach the rest of the reading. If the first word is 'Joyfully', on the other hand, they might expect a more upbeat story. It's like a little preview of what's to come in the narrative, and it can draw the reader in or push them away depending on their preference for that particular mood or style.

One example could be 'Once'. It sets a certain mood, like in 'Once upon a time' which is a very common and somewhat decorative way to start a fairy - tale - like novel. It gives a sense of the beginning of a story, a bit of mystery perhaps, as if something important is about to unfold.

You can use calligraphy. With different calligraphic styles, you can make the first letter look really decorative. For example, using a broad - nib pen to create thick and thin lines.

Well, the decorative first letter can be a great way to draw the reader's attention immediately. It's like a little teaser at the start. In illuminated manuscripts from the Middle Ages, these first letters were sometimes painted with gold and bright colors. They made the text look more appealing and special. It also gives a clue about the era or the style of the story. If it's a very ornate first letter, it might suggest a more traditional or formal story.

Think about the tone of your story. If it's a happy story, words like 'joyfully' or 'gladly' might work. For a sad story, 'mournfully' or 'regretfully' could be appropriate.

You can consider the tone of your story. If it's a sad story, a word like 'closure' might work well. It implies a finality that can be associated with the end of a difficult or emotional journey in the story.

Use 'terrifying'. If your story is a bit of a thriller or has a scary element, this word can really heighten the sense of drama at the climax. For instance, 'The terrifying figure emerged from the shadows.'

Words like 'Exquisite' can add a touch of elegance to the start of a story. 'Stunning' can immediately draw the reader in, making them expect something remarkable. 'Captivating' is also a good one as it implies that the story will hold the reader's attention throughout. For a more emotional start, 'Heartbreaking' could be used if the story has a sad or poignant theme.

They create an initial mood. For instance, if a novel starts with 'Gloomily', it immediately sets a somber tone. This mood can draw the reader in and make them more empathetic towards the characters and the situation. It also gives a hint about what the story might be like.

Look at the theme of the short story. If it's about love, words like 'affection', 'devotion' and 'passion' are suitable. Another way is to read other short stories in the same genre. Notice the words they use and how they create an impact. For instance, in a mystery short story, words such as 'clue', 'puzzle' and'secret' are often used to build suspense.