How can you make use of contrast or juxtaposition to create a thought-provoking opening sentence?

## Startling Sentences: Using Contrast and Juxtaposition to Capture Attention

In the vast sea of content, a compelling opening sentence is your ship’s sail. It catches the wind of reader interest and propels them into the heart of your writing. One powerful tool for crafting such captivating beginnings is the use of contrast and juxtaposition.

Imagine a tranquil lake reflecting the serene sky, and then suddenly, a lightning bolt splits the heavens. That’s the essence of contrast – the unexpected clash that jolts us awake. Juxtaposition, on the other hand, places two seemingly disparate elements side-by-side, creating a sense of intrigue and prompting us to seek the connection between them.

Here’s how you can utilize these literary devices to create thought-provoking opening sentences:

1. Contrasting Ideas:

– Example: “The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, a comforting scent in the face of the looming storm.”

– Explanation: This sentence contrasts the calming scent of bread with the ominous threat of a storm, creating a sense of tension and anticipation. The reader is immediately drawn in by the unexpected pairing, wanting to understand how these two seemingly unrelated elements coexist.

2. Contrasting Images:

– Example: “The sleek, modern skyscraper towered over the crumbling ruins of a forgotten city.”

– Explanation: The juxtaposition of a modern marvel against the remnants of the past creates a visual shock. The reader is left to ponder the passage of time, the cycle of destruction and renewal, and the interplay between progress and decay.

3. Contrasting Emotions:

– Example: “The laughter echoed through the desolate streets, a stark reminder of the joy that had once thrived in this forgotten corner of the city.”

– Explanation: This sentence contrasts the joy of laughter with the somber atmosphere of a forgotten place. The reader is left questioning the reason for the laughter, how it endures amidst desolation, and what the future holds for this forgotten corner.

4. Contrasting Experiences:

– Example: “In the quiet solitude of the mountaintop, I found myself surrounded by the cacophony of my own thoughts.”

– Explanation: The sentence juxtaposes the tranquil setting of a mountaintop with the chaotic noise of the speaker’s internal thoughts. The reader is intrigued by the paradox, wondering how stillness can be accompanied by such internal turmoil.

5. Contrasting Expectations:

– Example: “The seasoned detective, known for his unflinching logic, found himself swayed by the whispers of intuition.”

– Explanation: This sentence contrasts the detective’s established reputation for logic with the unexpected influence of intuition. The reader is compelled to explore the potential reasons for this shift and the consequences of relying on something other than cold, hard facts.

Remember, the key to crafting a successful opening sentence is to strike a balance between surprise and clarity. The contrast or juxtaposition should be unexpected and intriguing, yet understandable enough to capture the reader’s attention without leaving them bewildered.

By employing these techniques, you can elevate your writing beyond the ordinary and craft a compelling opening sentence that leaves your readers eager to explore the world you’ve created.