Inevitability

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The third person POV allows for an omniscient narrator who would presumably know the outcome of a character's transformation or transition. Is there a cost in having the narrator state with certainty that the change will occur regardless of anything the character does? For example:

As Adam and Steve left to go home, neither one knew that this would be the last time they would see each other as boys.

or

Let me tell you the story of how a young man named Steve became a wife and mother. It all started...

The omniscient narrator eliminates surprise and suspense but it does give the reader assurance they're not wasting their time or that their expectations will not be satisfied. The reader knows exactly what they're getting into when they see that in the first paragraph or towards the beginning of the story.

In a defiant story, the reader is aware early on that despite the character's struggle against the change it is futile. Does this futility make the story more-or-less compelling? In my opinion, knowing the ending early in the story can be a guilty pleasure but the costs are too high which is why I haven't written such stories. However, in a balanced portfolio, perhaps there should be a few to balance things out.

Comments

No right or wrong

It's important to remember that every reader is an individual. Some like to be kept in suspense (and I tend to be one of those) whilst others like the predictable. Either approach is valid.

It really depends what your story is about and where you see the main thrust coming.

So, it's your call! But a writer shouldn't be afraid to experiment with new ideas.

Charlotte's right

But there is also the factor of motive and underlying goals. The third party POV allows you to give the reader information that the protagonist doesn't have and may never have. Sometimes you can actually mix the two by telling the story from multiple points of view. Amadeus Irina is an example of this approach.

First person stories get you into the protagonist's mindset but often leave the reader wondering what is going on as much as the protagonist. If his/her reaction is the primary focus then the last thing you want us some omniscient narrator spilling the beans. It really comes down to the thrust of the story.

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Less Compelling, IMO...

I'd prefer to read a story in which I don't know the ending with certainty before the action begins.

That said, in a lot of stories it's the journey that's the most important thing rather than the destination.

Eric