How does the first person present tense enhance the reading experience in fantasy novels?

The first person present tense in romance novels is a powerful tool. It gives the story a sense of urgency. When a character says 'I'm falling in love right this instant', it makes the love story seem more real and alive. It also helps in character development as we get to know the character's thoughts and desires as they are happening. This makes it easier for the reader to empathize with the character and become fully immersed in the romantic journey. For instance, if the character is conflicted about their feelings, their present - tense internal monologue helps the reader understand that confusion immediately and be more involved in the story.

It makes it personal. You feel like you're in the shoes of the protagonist. For example, if the character says 'I'm running through the forest, scared out of my mind', you can almost feel the fear yourself.

It creates a sense of immediacy. For example, when reading about a battle in a fantasy world, we feel like we are right there as it's happening. The present tense makes it seem current, not something that happened in the past.

The first person present tense can also create a sense of authenticity. In 'To Kill a Mockingbird', Scout's present - tense narration gives the story a child - like freshness. We see the events of the trial and the racial tensions in Maycomb through her eyes as they are happening. It makes the moral lessons and the social commentary more impactful as we are part of Scout's discovery process.

In adult novels, present tense often adds a sense of urgency. Consider a thriller where the protagonist is in danger. Present tense makes it seem like the danger is happening right now. It also gives a more immersive experience. As we read, it's like we are living through the events with the characters, not just hearing about something that happened in the past. Moreover, it can make the emotional impact stronger. If a character is going through a heartbreak, present tense makes it feel like we are there sharing that pain in the moment.

The present tense in adult fiction enhances the reading experience in multiple ways. Firstly, it creates a sense of being part of the story. As you read, it's as if you're experiencing the events at the same time as the characters. Secondly, it can make the narrative more fluid. There's no need to constantly shift between past and present, which can sometimes disrupt the flow in other types of fiction. Finally, it can intensify the emotions. When a character is in a difficult situation and it's described in the present tense, like 'She is crying in despair', the reader can more easily empathize with that character's current state of mind.

It makes the story feel more personal. Since it's in the first person, you get a direct view into the character's thoughts and feelings. And the past tense gives it a sense of reflection, like the narrator is sharing a memory. For example, in 'Catcher in the Rye', Holden Caulfield's past - tense narration makes you feel like you're sitting with him while he tells you about his wild adventures in New York City.

It makes it more immersive. For example, in 'The Big Sleep' by Raymond Chandler. You feel like you are right there with the detective, seeing what he sees and thinking what he thinks.

Not necessarily. A first-person novel can be written in various tenses depending on the author's style and the story's requirements.

To write in first person present tense, you need to make the story feel immediate and raw. Use lots of 'I' statements and describe things as they are unfolding in the moment. It can make the reader feel more connected to the action.