How To Write A Short Story
While the correct length of a short story is up for debate, generally, a short story is no more than ten pages. This does not leave the writer much room for major plot points and character development. Twisted plot lines and overlapping themes have their place, but are often too much to fit neatly into a short story. The ideal short story contains a single plot line, moderately developed characters and no extra leads or fluff.
Short Story Frame:
The frame of a short story appears much like a mountain. At the lowest point, the beginning of the story, characters are introduced and the setting is laid out. Limit characters to only those necessary to the basic plot line and avoid unnecessary descriptions. Hair color and the style of clothing matters only if it has bearing on the outcome of the story.
Once everyone is introduced, the story begins to pick up speed. The problem is introduced. The problem, or conflict, in a story is usually one of three types. The main character conflicts with another character, battles natural elements or struggles internally. The correct literary terms for these conflicts are Man v. Man, Man v. Nature, or Man v. Himself. Obviously these problems are not restricted to male characters.
As the plot thickens, the main character faces the problem and finally things climax. The physical fight takes place or he reaches his breaking point. This is the peak of the mountain, and also the peak of the action. Picture it as the dramatic battle sequence in the movie.
Everything following the peak is the resolving action or resolution. How does your character respond to the climax? Is there a lesson to be learned? Does love blossom, or does the character find inner strength?
Finally, the last bit of the story should be resolution. All open plot points should be tied up and there should be no characters or storylines left dangling. Contrary to popular belief (and modern movies) “to be continued” is NOT a suitable ending.
Engaging Short Stories:
Once you have a framework laid out, your actual short story can start at any point along the frame. In fact, many of the most interesting short stories start at the end of the plot and work backwards or begin in the middle with time spent developing the history before moving forward.
Characters should be simple without a lot of description or drama to avoid dragging the story down. If the character is battling inner demons, he will obviously have more development than a simple character struggling to survive a wildfire. Elaborate your characters and setting only as much as necessary. Many short stories are timeless as the setting can be anywhere at any time.
Write the story first without regard to grammar or sentences. After you have completed the story, go back and read through it to find extra fluff or plot points that don’t close. Revise and rewrite the story until you feel it is as tight as possible while maintaining interest and its message. Then, go back and find grammatical mistakes and correct awkward phrasing.
A true writer is never finished with a piece as it can always be revised, but reach a place you are comfortable with, and call it complete. Then share your story with others and enjoy their praise.
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Posted in Education, Literacy - Reading and Writing
