Point of view (POV) is a crucial narrative technique that shapes how a story is perceived and experienced by the reader. Each of the options you provided highlights a different way that POV can be utilized in storytelling:
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It makes the reader part of the story: A first-person point of view can create a sense of intimacy and immediacy. When a narrator uses "I," readers often feel as though they are experiencing events alongside the character, fostering a deep emotional connection.
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It tells the narrator's connection to the story: The narrator's point of view can reveal their relationship to the plot and other characters. For example, a first-person narrator might be directly involved in the events, whereas a third-person limited narrator may provide insight into one character's thoughts and feelings while remaining more distanced from the action.
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It gives details about a character from their own perspective: A first-person or limited third-person point of view allows readers to see the world through a character's eyes, providing insights into their thoughts, feelings, and motivations. This subjective experience can deepen the reader's understanding of that character.
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It allows the writer to tell what every character is thinking: An omniscient third-person point of view enables the narrator to delve into the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. This can provide a broader understanding of the story's dynamics, tensions, and relationships among characters.
In summary, the choice of point of view can significantly influence the narrative style, emotional impact, and depth of characterization, shaping how the reader engages with the story. Each option you mentioned captures a distinct aspect of how point of view functions as a narrative technique.
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