Begin Quote by Stephen King
“But there's one thing I'm sure about. An opening line should invite the reader to begin the story. It should say: Listen. Come in here. You want to know about this.”
About This Quote
Source Writing Guide: On Writing, 2000
He stresses that an opening line must invite readers, creating immediate curiosity.
In simple terms: Opening lines should welcome and intrigue readers.
Craft a compelling opening that draws readers in.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- novels
- short stories
- marketing copy
- presentations
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance intrigue with clarity?
- What makes an opening line unforgettable?
A strong hook may not guarantee sustained interest.