Narrative essay

Features
1. The story should have an introduction that clearly indicates what kind of narrative
essay it is (an event or recurring activity, a personal experience, or an observation), and it
should have a conclusion that makes a point.
2. The essay should include anecdotes. The author should describe the person, the scene,
or the event in some detail. It’s okay to include dialogue as long as you know how to
punctuate it correctly and as long as you avoid using too much.
3. The occasion or person described must be suggestive in that your description and
thoughts lead the reader to reflect on the human experience. For instance, I read an
excellent student essay that told the story of a young woman forced to shoot several
wolves that were attacking her cattle. She told her story and included the inner struggle
she faced as she made the choice of saving the cattle or saving the wolves. She shot the
wolves, but learned that whatever her choice had been, she would not have been
comfortable with it. One of life’s lessons is that sometimes there is no right choice, and
that was the point of the essay.
4. The point of view in narrative essays is usually first person. The use of “I” invites your
readers into an intimate discussion.
5. The writing in your essay should be lively and show some style. Try to describe ideas
and events in new and different ways. Avoid using clichés. Again, get the basic story
down, get it organized, and in your final editing process, work on word choice