How and why does the writer jump from setting to setting in a novel?

Answer 1

One reason is to build suspense. If the writer also changes point of view, it is to provide a contrast (good vs bad). Another reason is to engage the reader -- make the story seem to be real, happening in real time. Sometimes it is to provide background; occasionally it is to educate and inform.

Answer 2

Everytime a writer intros a new setting, they have to describe it so readers can picture it mentally.

i.e. After leaving the dark, dank room that smelled slightly musty, the welcoming light of the adjoining room portended of new hope. It was a large, rectangular room with little furnishing that seemed to emanate an ethereal glow. It smelled of summer daisies and light jasmine that seemed to perfume the air.

(See how it kind of paints a picture?)

Authors do this to paint mental pictures for readers so that they can understand the story better.

Answer 3

I hate to point out the obvious, but books can rarely sustain a story from a single viewpoint, thus the novel must change settings.

Answer 4

Do you jump from setting to setting in your life or are you agoraphobic? Authors jump from setting to setting because art imitates life. And life doesn't always take place in the same place. Pax - C

Answer 5

Because the characters move from place to place as the story progresses.

Answer 6

It could be juxtaposition- placing the many settings side by side to compare them. :)