Many authors have used the technique of telling stories through the medium of letters, diaries, and secret journals to add depth and complexity to their characters and plots. By using this form, they allow readers to gain access to the innermost thoughts and feelings of their characters, offering an unusual perspective that is both engaging and revealing. Stories told through these means often include elements of suspense and intrigue, as readers are drawn into the lives of the characters, hoping to uncover hidden truths and secrets. This structure can also be used to create tension, as readers may be left wondering what will happen next in the narrative based on clues found within the private writings of the characters.
One example of a story told through letters is "Dear John," which follows the correspondence between two lovers who are forced apart due to military service during World War II. Through their letters, readers get a sense of the intense emotions and longing that exists between them, even though they are physically distant from each other. Another example is "The Diary of Anne Frank," which tells the story of a young girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II. Her journal provides insight into her fears and hopes for the future, as well as her growing awareness of the horrors taking place around her.
In addition to its use in fiction, this format has been employed by nonfiction writers as well.
"The Handmaid's Tale" uses letters written by Offred, a handmaid living in a dystopian society, to offer a glimpse into the oppressive world she inhabits. Similarly, the diaries of Anne Lister have been used to tell the story of her life and loves, giving historians valuable information about lesbian relationships in the early 19th century.
The use of letters, diaries, and secret journals in stories adds an extra layer of depth and intimacy to the reading experience, allowing readers to feel more connected to the characters while also gaining a unique perspective on the events unfolding before them.