Third-person narrative is a widely used method for presenting geographical information and perspectives in various forms of literature such as academic articles, books, and research papers. This narrative technique involves the use of “he,” “she,” or “they” pronouns to describe the actions and thoughts of characters or real people in a particular geographical setting.

While third-person narrative has its advantages in providing a broader perspective and creating a sense of objectivity, it also faces criticisms and limitations in the field of geography. In this article, we will discuss some of these criticisms and limitations that need to be considered when using third-person narrative in geographical writing.

Firstly, one of the main criticisms of third-person narrative in geography is its potential to create an illusion of objectivity. The use of pronouns like “he” or “she” may give the impression that the narrator is detached and unbiased, providing a neutral account of events. However, this may not always be the case as the author’s own subjectivities and biases can still influence the narrative. For example, a researcher’s cultural background or personal experiences may subconsciously shape their portrayal of a particular place or community, even when using third-person narrative. This can compromise the credibility of the information presented and misrepresent the reality on the ground.

Secondly, third-person narrative can be limiting in terms of portraying the diversity and complexities of geographical contexts. By focusing on individual characters or real people, it may not capture the broader social, political, and historical factors that shape a specific place or community. This can result in an oversimplification of complex geographical issues and perpetuate stereotypes and generalizations. It is crucial for geographers to recognize the limitations of third-person narrative and complement it with other research methods, such as interviews and observations, to provide a more nuanced understanding of a place or community.

Another limitation of third-person narrative in geography is its potential to perpetuate power imbalances. The use of “he” or “she” pronouns can reinforce traditional gender roles and hierarchies in society. It may also overlook the voices and perspectives of marginalized groups, further marginalizing their experiences. Geographers must be mindful of these power dynamics when using third-person narrative and strive to amplify diverse voices and perspectives.

Moreover, third-person narrative can also be criticized for its lack of reflexivity. Unlike first-person narrative, where the author explicitly acknowledges their role and position in the research, third-person narrative can create a sense of detachment from the subject matter. This can result in a lack of critical self-reflection and accountability on the part of the author. To counter this, geographers should continuously reflect on their positionality and biases, as well as the potential impact of their research on the subjects being studied.

Lastly, third-person narrative may also face challenges in accurately representing the emotions and feelings of characters or real people. As a narrator, the author may not have direct access to the internal thoughts and emotions of the subjects, which can lead to a detached and incomplete portrayal. This can be particularly challenging when discussing sensitive or traumatic events in a geographical context. In such cases, using first-person narratives, such as personal accounts or testimonies, may provide a more nuanced understanding of the emotional aspects of a particular place or community.

In conclusion, while third-person narrative is a widely used narrative technique in geographical writing, it is essential to recognize its criticisms and limitations. To provide a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of a geographical context, geographers should complement third-person narrative with other research methods, be mindful of power dynamics and biases, and continuously reflect on their role in the research process. By doing so, we can overcome the limitations of third-person narrative and present a more accurate and nuanced portrayal of the world around us.