Ask Jerry
POV
Asked by Richard Westover on October 13, 2020
Dear Jerry
If you are writing in third person limited is it a major no-no to have something happen after the character falls asleep?
Could you get around it for example by saying "He fell asleep and didn't notice Jane kiss his cheek."
Jerry's Answer
Yes, it's a no-no, Richard, because your perspective character is your camera and microphone. If he's not conscious of what's happening, we can't be either.
But it can be just as effective for him to doze off, wake in the morning, and Jane can say, "I kissed you good night, you know, but I fear you were already out."
"Did you really?"
Etc.