Creative Strategies - Building a Non-Fiction Narrative

Following from the previous blog, I have thought about how I will construct my creative piece. Characterisation, setting and framing are some of the narrative building blocks which I have devised strategies for.

Characterisation

Although I am using Keats’ letters as the main insight into his characterisation, I must avoid regurgitating what he has already written. Instead, I will paint the scenes which arise from his letters to demonstrate Keats’ personality. For example, depicting John Keats at his desk, hesitantly writing to his lover, portrays his character much more engagingly than if I told the reader ‘he wrote to her.’ I believe doing this will make Keats a more compelling protagonist, as well as showcase the humanistic side to, what some would consider, a figurehead of the Romantic Era.

Setting

"Setting is not merely scenery..." states writer Janet Burroway, "....it is part and parcel of the significant." I've kept this in mind while thinking about the presentation of the setting in my piece.
Keats’ walk will invoke a calming atmosphere. However, I cannot fabricate the weather and environment to accommodate this mood, as this would be manipulating the truth; it was, in reality, very cold the day he walked. However, I can draw upon my similar experiences, as well as the research I have made, to highlight aspects of the truth that would still create the atmosphere I want. For example, I could contrast the grey clouds with the sound of birdsong, showing hope in spite of the gloom. This will create a consistent mood which will draw the reader into the world of the story.

Framing

As Keats progresses along his walk, the narrative will flash back to significant events in his life, such as his brother’s death or arguments with his publisher. This will make the narrative non-chronological. I believe that framing the story in this way makes the plot more engaging for the reader. This is because it speeds up the pace, moving the story from scene to scene, while having a single narrative thread that the reader can rely upon. As well as this, by placing Keats' life alongside the peaceful walk, the reader will have a greater understanding of Keats as a whole, providing a empathetic context to the piece.