About this episode

The episode discusses essential elements to consider when starting a story and the technique of using contrast in scenes.

Here is a checklist of things we likely should think about as we begin our first chapter: some elements to have in the beginning pages of our story and some things to avoid. Also: the strong technique of using contrast in consecutive scenes so that lights shine on both scenes. Support the show Buy the master class.

People in this episode

Host: James Thayer

Topics covered

• storytelling
• writing techniques
• first chapter
• scene contrast
• novel writing

Keywords

• first chapter
• story elements
• writing checklist
• scene contrast
• novel writing

More episodes of Essential Guide to Writing a Novel

• Episode 218 - Our writer's voice. · May 22, 2026 · 27 min
• Episode 217 - Why and how to practice. And Edgar Alan Poe. · May 15, 2026 · 27 min

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