A short story, simply put, is like a shorter version of a novel. It has the same elements as that of a novel: characters, setting, plot, conflict, and a resolution. A short story will require more creativity from an author because given the limitations of the number of words; you have to make sure your readers are satisfied and truly impressed.
How do you impress your readers? A short story is a work of fiction or imagination but then again, just like any other stories long or short, you can always get inspiration from the reality around you. What people are looking for usually is how they can relate to the characters, their pains, their fears, their triumphs and their dreams. Look around you and everything, everyone, has a story to tell: the beggar in the street, the lonesome willow tree in the middle of a park, the quarrelling couple in the subway, and the strict librarian with very thick glasses. The list is endless. Read on to learn how to write a good short story.
1. Have you read enough short stories?
Reading will help you sharpen your mind and develop your skill as a short story writer. It doesn’t mean that you will be copying the idea of others, though. The more short stories you read, the readier you will become to take on the task, as it will build up your excitement and encourage you to actually do it.
2. Outline your story
When you’re ready to start writing, you can now take your pen and paper and outline your story. List out the elements below and make notes next to these:
The characters: Each character has to leave an impression that will make the reader remember them long after they have finished reading your story. Make sure you don’t overwhelm your readers with too many characters. Some short, compelling stories take over the world by just two or three characters.
The setting: Describe the scene, don’t describe the picture.
The plot: It has to have the element of surprise. Putting a twist somewhere near the end always works.
The conflict: “Human interest” is the aspect of a story that interests people because it resonates with their own experiences. This always keeps the reader riveted to their seats simply because they can relate to what the characters undergo in the story.
The resolution: Keep in mind that a good story has an element of justice. It doesn’t have to be a traditional happy-ever-after kind of ending, but make sure you create a conclusion out of the conflict you have presented. Some stories can go on and on, stuck in the conflict of the whole story and it ends badly there.
3. Write your story
Using your outline, and associated notes as guidance, go ahead and write your story. Just allow the words to flow. However, be mindful of your outline. When there is a temptation to stray, go back to your outline and check your elements one by one. It will keep you grounded.
4. Strong title, equally strong ending
Your title must represent your whole story, but in a way that will give just a hint to your readers. Remember though, making a compelling title is as challenging as coming up with an ending that is just as good. Your ending has to make your story come in full circle.
5. Practice, practice, practice
Capture your reader’s attention. Imagine, visualize, dream, and make it up. Most of all, experiment. It’s only by trying out new things that the best writers learn, and become masters of their craft.
Image credit: CHRIS DRUMM on flickr and reproduced under Creative Commons 2.0