For those that were not able to attend the Nationals this year, I thought I’d share tidbits from the sessions I attended. I encourage you to add to this if you wish. I’ll just give a nibble each time in order to spur discussion.

I picked up my notes today and flipped open to a page that said “Use the Rule of Three”. Here’s the essence of that part of a lecture given by Allison Brennan and Sandra Brown:

Rule of Three — Setting:

What three things will your character notice when they walk into a room or place? This has to be character specific. Use those in your description of the setting based on the POV you’re working from.

What does this mean? If I’m an FBI Agent, I will look for specific details that may pose a threat. The smell of a space only matters if there’s an odor that seems threatening. The guy standing in the corner fidgeting may be of interest, though. As well as the bulge in his jacket that may indicate a weapon. If I am a fashion designer, I’ll notice the colors, the decor, the appearance of the people, etc. I won’t even see the guy standing in the corner fidgeting because he blends into the darkness. But, If I’m a recent rape victim, that same guy might just be the reason I turn and walk away.

You should always create the setting at the beginning of a scene. It may only be a few words but if you base it on the POV you’re working in and use the rule of three, you’ve given the reader enough to see the atmosphere.

Note that this is my perception of the take-away from the RWA Conference and in no way represents the opinion of anyone else, nor has it been solicited or compensated in any way for any purpose. It is shared simply for informational purposes.

Have a fantastic day.