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Q&A Does every chapter have to "blow the reader away" so to speak?

It is a matter of uniformity. So, in your case, yes: every chapter should "blow the reader away". Chapters are parts of a bigger work where there is an expectation of both continuity of scope and...

posted 5y ago by _X_‭  ·  last activity 5y ago by System‭

Answer
#4: Attribution notice removed by user avatar System‭ · 2019-12-18T21:34:24Z (almost 5 years ago)
Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/45928
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/
#3: Attribution notice added by user avatar System‭ · 2019-12-08T12:10:17Z (almost 5 years ago)
Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/45928
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/
#2: Initial revision by (deleted user) · 2019-12-08T12:10:17Z (almost 5 years ago)
# It is a matter of uniformity.

So, in your case, yes: every chapter should "blow the reader away".

Chapters are parts of a bigger work where there is an expectation of both continuity of scope and uniformity of perception. Continuity of scope implies that your readers may rightfully expect to continue reading about the same overall topic, or they may expect you to stick to the promised agenda. Uniformity of perception is that they continue to engage with your writing as long as they can draw a uniform range of emotions and intensity out of it.

Providing two mind-blowing chapters at the start sets an implicit contract between you and the reader that the continuation will be just as engaging. Lacking to deliver on such contract slows down the pace, creates detachment, and eventually abandonment.

If you don't think you can further deliver mind-blowing writing, then you may want to consider revising the initial premise. Alternatively, chop the dragging parts, edit them, shorten them, set them aside as a source of inspiration but not-yet-fit-for-purpose text.

The goal of a lengthy work is to complete the race, not to sprint at the beginning.

#1: Imported from external source by user avatar System‭ · 2019-06-12T12:33:39Z (over 5 years ago)
Original score: 4