What are some great first sentences in novels?
The first sentence of 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens, 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...' is really great. This sentence captures the duality and complexity of the era, drawing readers in with its paradoxical nature and making them curious about the two cities and the events that will unfold.
In 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, 'Call me Ishmael.' is a very well - known and great first sentence. It's simple yet so effective as it makes the reader feel an immediate connection with the narrator, Ishmael, and sets the stage for his adventures on the Pequod in the pursuit of the great white whale.
What are some great first sentences in novels?
In 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens, the first sentence goes 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...' This opening is so powerful as it creates a sense of contrast and duality right from the start. It hints at the complex and tumultuous events that will unfold during the French Revolution, which is the backdrop of the story.
What are some great first sentences of novels?
In 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens, the first sentence is 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...' This powerful opening gives a sense of contrast and the duality of the era the story is set in, and it also creates a sense of mystery and anticipation as to what exactly those 'times' are all about.
What are some great first sentences in fantasy novels?
One great first sentence could be 'In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.' from 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien. It's simple yet immediately creates a sense of mystery and a vivid image of this little creature's home.
How important are the first sentences of great novels?
Very important. They act as a hook. If the first sentence doesn't catch your attention, you might not be so eager to continue reading. For instance, a really dull first sentence might make you put the book down right away.
What are some examples of great first sentences in short stories?
A great first sentence could be 'The little girl skipped down the lane, her pigtails bouncing, unaware of the danger lurking around the corner.' Here, we get a vivid image of the character, her innocence, and a hint of impending trouble. Also, 'The door creaked open, and a cold wind swept in, carrying with it a sense of dread.' This sets a spooky mood right from the start.
What are some great opening sentences for novels?
Here's another one: 'The door slammed shut behind her, and she knew she could never go back.' This opening sentence gives a sense of finality and a feeling of a new beginning. It makes the reader curious about the character, why she can't go back, and what lies ahead for her.
What are some of the best first sentences in fiction and why are they considered great?
One great first sentence is 'It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.' from '1984'. It immediately sets an off - kilter mood. The idea of the clocks striking thirteen is abnormal and grabs the reader's attention, hinting at a world that is not quite right.
What are some of the best first sentences in novels?
The opening of 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, 'Call me Ishmael.' is quite remarkable. It's a very direct and somewhat mysterious start. By simply stating his name (or the name he wants to be called), Ishmael invites the reader into his world. It makes the reader curious about who this Ishmael is and what his story will be about.
What are some of the worst first sentences in novels?
One example could be a first sentence that is overly complex and filled with jargon that makes it difficult for the average reader to understand right away. For instance, a sentence like 'The ineffable esotericism of the preternatural realm was about to be divulged in a most perfunctory manner.' It's just too much to take in at the start and might put off readers.
What are some famous first sentences of novels?
The opening of 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville, 'Call me Ishmael.' is very well - known. It's a simple yet powerful start. It directly introduces the narrator, making the reader curious about who Ishmael is and what his story will be. It's like an invitation to follow Ishmael on his journey, which in this case, is the fateful voyage in pursuit of the great white whale.