I don't read flashbacks

Especially when they're entire chapters. Does this make me a bad person?

It's partially because they bore me because flashbacks often offer no advancement of the plot, simply character exposition, but at the same time it's because I wish you'd show me things in the present to explain the character instead of having flashbacks. Have the character explain the memory to another character, hence having them add input from their current mindset and adding a conversation.

I think maybe people add flashbacks sometimes because of the whole, 'show, don't tell' but if you have an elaborate flashback you're still telling. If you have the character recount a memory, the way they recount it will show not just how they felt in the moment and what happened, but also what they feel about it in the present and their current opinions on the events.

 

What are some thoughts in response to my thoughts? This is the first time I'm revealing that I mostly skip or skim through flashbacks haha

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SkyeButterfly #1
It depends on the type of flashback for me! If it’s a parallel storyline that happened in the past, I would read it. But if it’s just a little anecdotal flashback, I wouldn’t pay much attention to it. I’d still read it, but I wouldn’t put much thought in it. I think writing a flashback requires skill—that when done right, is exciting and essential. Some books do have flashbacks that are essential to the plot, and those are well done. Also, I feel like hanging flashbacks (just dropped in the middle of the chapter) aren’t as good as integrating the flashback as a dream or into conversation.
MissMinew #2
I am exactly the same :3
There’s nothing new to add for me ~
btsbiased26 #3
how do you feel about flashbacks in tv shows?
Irnbru121 #4
same I will skip flashbacks too and for the same reasons too
Unless its essential to the plot (:
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