Tips for Short Stories

I came across this article this morning and although these are all tips we have heard about, I thought it a good reminder for us short story writers. The link is at the end if you want to read more. Gloria

Show Don't Tell

Think about how does the storyteller delivers the story. If they tell about a rotten smell, and back away with nose wrinkled or hold their nose, the audience sees that the smell is bad. In the same way, as you learn how to write short stories, you need to show the smell is bad with your words—words that create an image in the reader's mind. In other words, "rotten smell" doesn't really create an image, whereas, "Rita pulled the container from the refrigerator in her search for something to eat. She lifted the lid and peeked inside. Big mistake. Released air hissed and spewed the stench of moldy cabbage into the air faster than she could seal the container and toss it in the trash." This story could go on with air freshener, allergic reactions, opening the windows…whatever is necessary for moving the story forward.

Components of a Good Story

It doesn't matter whether your short story is fiction or non-fiction, the same components are necessary for a good story.

• Plot: If you don't develop a plot, your story is nothing more than words. Your short story should be made up of a series of events organized for one purpose—your plot. These events should create a type of complication or conflict, which forces your character to make a choice. The choice will lead to a further dilemma and or crisis, which tests the character. The climax of the story comes about at the height of the crisis, and should be followed with resolution.
• Setting: In the case of a short story, you don't have much time to create setting. This is the physical place where the story happens, and is used to make the plot work.
• Characters: The type of characters you choose will depend on genre, and of course on whether or not you're writing fiction or non fiction. The key to making your characters believable is to let the reader see them. What body language do they use? Give them quirks or habits, and of course a few physical characteristics. Mix this information with a small amount of back story and they'll come alive.
• Dialog: Dialog is a great device to move the plot forward while delivering back story information naturally. Note the key word here: naturally. The information must "fit" the conversation. Forced information dumps only draw attention to themselves and are not the mark of a good writer.

Vivid Imagery

Just like the oral counterpart, the key to drawing your reader into the written story is vivid imagery. This doesn't mean blocks of flowery description, but learning to use active voice with specific verbs that involves all the senses. It takes practice. If you are interested in learning more through practical first-hand experience, it's a good idea to join a writing group or take online classes where writers exchange critiques and offer feedback.

http://freelance-writing.lovetoknow.com/Learn_How_to_Write_Short_Stories