Passive and active voices in fiction – one point of veiw

In speculative fiction, the choice between active and passive voices can significantly impact the tone, pacing, and overall effectiveness of the narrative. Both active and passive voices have their merits, and understanding when to utilize each can enhance the storytelling experience in this genre.

The active voice is well-suited for speculative fiction as it emphasizes action, immediacy, and agency. By using the active voice, authors can create a sense of dynamic energy, propel the plot forward, and engage readers in the vivid and immersive worlds they have crafted. Active sentences typically follow a subject-verb-object structure, with the subject taking the role of the “doer” of the action. This direct and assertive style works particularly well in scenes involving fast-paced action sequences, intense battles, or thrilling pursuits.

For instance, consider the following active voice sentence: “The warrior unsheathed her gleaming sword and charged at the monstrous creature.” This sentence immediately establishes a sense of urgency, capturing the reader’s attention and immersing them in the unfolding conflict. The active voice here lends itself to a high level of engagement, allowing readers to feel the adrenaline and participate in the action alongside the characters.

On the other hand, the passive voice can also find its place in speculative fiction, particularly when conveying a sense of mystery, ambiguity, or detachment. The passive voice places emphasis on the recipient or object of the action rather than the subject, creating a more observational tone. This can be effective when describing events or phenomena that are beyond human comprehension or control, adding an air of enigma to the narrative.

In speculative fiction, the passive voice can be employed to evoke a sense of awe or wonder. By emphasizing the object or entity being acted upon, authors can emphasize the magnitude or strangeness of the events unfolding. For example, consider the sentence: “The ancient artifact was discovered buried deep within the ancient ruins.” Here, the passive voice places the focus on the artifact, imbuing it with a sense of significance and mystery. This approach can be particularly effective when introducing powerful artifacts, ancient civilizations, or otherworldly phenomena.

Additionally, the passive voice can serve speculative fiction by portraying characters in a state of powerlessness or vulnerability. In dystopian or post-apocalyptic settings, for instance, characters may find themselves subject to external forces or oppressive regimes. By utilizing the passive voice, authors can accentuate the characters’ lack of agency or control, heightening the atmosphere of helplessness and the need for change.

However, it is important to use the passive voice judiciously, as overuse can result in a lack of clarity or monotony in the prose. Balancing active and passive voices is crucial to maintain a varied and engaging narrative. Strategic use of the active voice can provide momentum and draw readers into the action, while the selective application of the passive voice can enhance atmosphere, evoke mystery, or underscore the characters’ circumstances.

In conclusion, active and passive voices both have a place in speculative fiction, and their effective use can greatly impact the storytelling experience. The active voice excels at conveying action, immediacy, and agency, propelling readers into the heart of the narrative. Meanwhile, the passive voice can evoke mystery, emphasize the magnitude of events, or accentuate characters’ powerlessness. By understanding the strengths of each voice and employing them strategically, authors can craft engaging and immersive speculative fiction that captivates readers and brings their imagined worlds to life.