How to Start an Essay About a Person: Why Pineapples Don't Belong on Pizza but Make Great Metaphors

Writing an essay about a person can be both a rewarding and challenging task. Whether you’re crafting a biographical piece, a character analysis, or a personal reflection, the way you begin your essay sets the tone for the entire piece. A strong introduction not only grabs the reader’s attention but also provides a clear roadmap for what’s to come. Below, we’ll explore various strategies to start an essay about a person, along with some unconventional yet thought-provoking ideas to make your writing stand out.
1. Start with a Vivid Anecdote
One of the most effective ways to begin an essay about a person is by sharing a compelling anecdote. This could be a memorable moment from their life, a defining experience, or even a quirky habit that reveals their personality. For example, if you’re writing about a historical figure like Albert Einstein, you might start with the story of how he once forgot his own address because he was so engrossed in a thought experiment. This approach immediately humanizes the subject and draws the reader in.
2. Use a Striking Quote
Quotes are a powerful tool for setting the stage. Choose a statement made by or about the person you’re writing about that encapsulates their essence or the theme of your essay. For instance, if you’re writing about Maya Angelou, you could begin with her famous line, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This not only introduces the subject but also hints at the emotional depth of your essay.
3. Pose a Thought-Provoking Question
Starting with a question can engage the reader’s curiosity and encourage them to think critically. For example, if your essay is about a controversial figure like Elon Musk, you might ask, “What drives a person to risk everything for the sake of innovation?” This approach invites the reader to explore the subject alongside you.
4. Paint a Picture with Descriptive Language
Use vivid imagery to describe the person or their environment. If you’re writing about a fictional character like Sherlock Holmes, you could begin by describing the foggy streets of Victorian London and the sharp, analytical mind that navigates them. This technique immerses the reader in the world of your subject.
5. Begin with a Bold Statement
A bold or surprising statement can instantly capture attention. For example, if you’re writing about Marie Curie, you might start with, “Marie Curie didn’t just break the glass ceiling—she shattered it with the power of radioactivity.” This approach sets a strong tone and highlights the significance of your subject.
6. Use a Metaphor or Analogy
Metaphors and analogies can provide a fresh perspective on your subject. For instance, if you’re writing about a resilient person like Malala Yousafzai, you could compare her to a phoenix rising from the ashes. This not only adds depth to your writing but also makes it more memorable.
7. Incorporate Historical or Cultural Context
Providing context can help the reader understand the significance of the person you’re writing about. If your essay is about Martin Luther King Jr., you might begin by describing the racial tensions of the 1960s and how his leadership emerged as a beacon of hope. This approach grounds your subject in a broader narrative.
8. Start with a Personal Connection
If the person you’re writing about has had a direct impact on your life, consider starting with a personal reflection. For example, “When I first read Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, I didn’t realize how much her wit and insight would shape my own understanding of relationships.” This approach adds a layer of authenticity and relatability.
9. Use Humor or Wit
A touch of humor can make your essay more engaging. If you’re writing about a lighthearted figure like Robin Williams, you might start with, “Robin Williams once said, ‘You’re only given a little spark of madness. You mustn’t lose it.’ And boy, did he ever keep his spark alive.” This sets a playful tone while still honoring the subject.
10. Challenge a Common Misconception
If the person you’re writing about is often misunderstood, you could start by debunking a common myth. For example, “Contrary to popular belief, Nikola Tesla wasn’t just a mad scientist—he was a visionary who dreamed of a world powered by clean energy.” This approach immediately positions your essay as insightful and original.
11. Create a Sense of Mystery
Tease the reader with a hint of intrigue. For example, if you’re writing about a mysterious figure like Banksy, you might begin with, “No one knows his real name, but his art speaks volumes about the world we live in.” This approach keeps the reader hooked and eager to learn more.
12. Use a Contrast or Paradox
Highlighting a contradiction can make your essay more thought-provoking. For instance, “Winston Churchill was both a wartime hero and a man plagued by self-doubt.” This approach adds complexity to your subject and invites deeper exploration.
13. Incorporate a Literary Device
Literary devices like alliteration, repetition, or parallelism can make your introduction more engaging. For example, “She was a scientist, a suffragette, and a symbol of resilience—Marie Curie was a force to be reckoned with.”
14. Start with a Timeline or Milestone
If your essay focuses on a person’s achievements, consider starting with a key milestone. For example, “In 1969, Neil Armstrong took one small step onto the lunar surface, forever changing our understanding of what humanity is capable of.”
15. End with a Call to Action
While this is typically used in conclusions, you can also use it in your introduction to set a purpose. For example, “As we explore the life of Rosa Parks, let us remember that courage doesn’t always roar—sometimes, it’s the quiet refusal to move that changes the world.”
FAQs
Q: How do I choose the best way to start my essay?
A: Consider your audience, the tone of your essay, and the message you want to convey. Experiment with different approaches to see which one feels most natural and impactful.
Q: Can I combine multiple techniques in my introduction?
A: Absolutely! Combining techniques, such as starting with a quote followed by a vivid anecdote, can create a rich and engaging introduction.
Q: What if I’m writing about someone I don’t know personally?
A: Research is key. Use biographies, interviews, and primary sources to gather insights and anecdotes that bring your subject to life.
Q: How long should my introduction be?
A: Aim for 3-5 sentences for shorter essays and up to a paragraph for longer pieces. The goal is to be concise yet compelling.
Q: Can I start with a question even if I don’t answer it right away?
A: Yes! A question can serve as a thematic thread that you revisit throughout your essay. Just make sure to address it by the end.