Best first liners for creation stories

One great first liner could be 'In the beginning, there was a vast expanse of nothingness, pregnant with the potential of all things.'

For an African creation story, 'When the first rains fell on the parched earth, the story of creation began.' This liner ties the start of creation to a natural phenomenon which is often very important in African cultures. Rain is a symbol of life and renewal, so starting the creation story with it gives a strong cultural connection and also creates a vivid image in the reader's mind. It implies that the creation is somehow linked to the cycles of nature and the environment that the people are so dependent on.

How about 'As the first drop of rain fell upon the barren land, the story of nature's creation was set in motion.' This line gives the idea that something as simple as a raindrop can be the starting point of a much larger process of nature coming into being. It also creates an image of a desolate starting point which is then going to be transformed by the power of nature.

It should also set the mood. If it's a horror story, a line like 'The old, creaking house on the hill seemed to have eyes that followed her every move.' creates a spooky atmosphere. The description of the house gives a sense of unease and makes the reader expect something scary to happen. This kind of first line is important as it gives the reader an idea of the genre and tone of the story.

A classic first liner could be 'The night was as dark as the secrets hidden within the old mansion.' It immediately sets a moody and mysterious atmosphere, making the reader curious about what might be going on in that old mansion and what secrets it holds. This type of line draws the reader in, making them want to find out more about the crime that might be associated with the place.

One way is to start with a question. For example, 'Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a world without colors?' This immediately grabs the reader's attention and makes them curious to find out more. It makes them start thinking about the concept and draws them into the story.

Sure. 'The door was ajar, and a cold draft blew in, carrying with it the stench of death.' This line is effective as it creates an immediate sense of unease. An open door is often a sign of something wrong, and the mention of the stench of death makes it clear that a crime may have occurred. It makes the reader eager to know what is behind that door.

The old house creaked. A shadow passed. It was never empty.

The first creation story is like the grand opening act, laying out the basic structure of the world. It gives a broad view of creation. The second creation story zooms in on specific aspects, especially the creation of human beings. In the first, we might see elements like the creation of celestial bodies. In the second, we are more focused on the relationship between the creator and the first humans, their purpose, and their place in the newly created world.

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