I've been thinking about openers today...
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."
This has got to be one of the best first lines ever. The opening words of Jane Austin's beloved novel 'Pride & Prejudice are imbued with all the intent and humour the story holds. It makes me want to re-read it rolling those words around in my mind.
A good beginning must be compelling; like this one from Stephen King's 'The Gunslinger',
"The man in black fled across the desert, and the gunslinger followed..."
(I think that would be Steve's favourite...) and this gem from Ann Patchett's 'Bell Canto',
"When the lights went off the accompanist kissed her."
The pictures these words paint draw me in immediately. I must know whom is being kissed / pursued / married off and I will trust the weaver of this tale, the crafter of these sentences, to take me on that journey of discovery.
What's your favourite opening line? Are there any that have stayed with you? I know there are the famous ones (It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, etc.) but what words have moved you, stayed with you, evoke a memory of feeling you long to regain? Love your thoughts in the comments - hoping for some new recommendations for my book list :)