The first lines of a book are often the most powerful and usually the hardest to write. As an aspiring writer myself, I’m continually searching for just the right “beginning” – something that really packs a punch, makes the reader laugh, or draws him in like a lure. As one of the best examples I’ve encountered to date, I offer you the opening lines N.D. Wilson’s Leepike Ridge:
In the history of the world there have been lots of onces and lots of times, and every time has had a once upon it. Most people will tell you that the once upon a time happened in a land far, far away, but it really depends on where you are. The once upon a time may have been just outside your back door. It may have been beneath your very feet. It might not have been in a land at all but deep in the sea’s belly or bobbing around on its back.
Praise God for the creativity he has bestowed on the mind of man. How dull life would be without it.
(Have a favorite opening line from a book?
Feel free to share it in the comments section)
THE INK SLINGER 