Page breaks in novels can serve several functions. One important function is to create a sense of pacing. For example, a page break might be used to mark a significant shift in time, place, or mood. It gives the reader a moment to pause and absorb what has just happened before moving on to the next part of the story. Another function is for aesthetic purposes. It can make the layout of the book more visually appealing and organized, enhancing the overall reading experience.
Page breaks can enhance the reading experience. They give a natural pause, like taking a breath between sentences. This allows readers to reflect on what they've just read. For example, if a cliffhanger ends a page, the page break adds to the suspense as you turn the page to find out what happens next.
Using page breaks in a Word novel has multiple advantages. It helps in creating a more professional layout. For instance, when you have a change in time or setting in your novel, a page break can mark that transition clearly. It also gives the reader a visual cue that something new is starting. Moreover, it can assist in proofreading. You can easily focus on one section at a time without the distraction of the adjacent text. Additionally, if you plan to publish your novel in print, proper page breaks are crucial for a polished look.
When it comes to lines, they can be used to mimic the way a character is speaking or thinking. For example, short, choppy lines might indicate a character's nervousness. Page breaks are used to signal a shift in the narrative focus. A new page can start a new sub - plot or introduce a new set of characters. Also, lines can be used to group dialogue in a more organized way within a page.
You can also use a series of asterisks or a decorative horizontal line as a page break for time passage. Then, in the new section, change the setting or the character's state subtly. For example, if it was spring before the break, it could be winter after, indicating months have passed. This gives the reader a visual and contextual cue about the time shift.
Lines can be used to structure the text in a way that makes it easier to follow. In a novel, long, unbroken lines can be overwhelming. By breaking lines, the author can group related ideas together. Page breaks also play a role. They give the physical book a sense of organization. If there were no page breaks, it would be hard to navigate through the novel.
Not changing the context enough. Just having a page break and then continuing as if nothing has really changed in terms of the setting or character development can make the time passage seem pointless. For example, if it's supposed to be a long time passed but the character is still wearing the same clothes and in the same place with no evolution, it doesn't work well.
You can describe the characters' thoughts and feelings during the break to make it more vivid. Maybe they're reflecting on what happened before or looking forward to what's next.