Humor. A very funny short story is appealing because it makes people laugh. It often contains unexpected twists like in the story where a man thought he ordered a normal steak but got a 'tender' one that couldn't hold a knife. These surprises are what draw people in.
The element of the absurd can be very appealing in a very funny short story. Take the magician who accidentally turned into a grocery store. It's completely out of the ordinary and defies logic. This kind of absurdity catches our attention and makes us chuckle. It breaks the normal patterns of our thinking and offers a momentary escape into a world where the rules are different and funny things can happen unexpectedly.
Humor. A very funny short story often has unexpected twists and turns. For example, in a story where a dog starts talking like a human out of the blue. It catches you off guard and makes you laugh. Also, relatable characters can add to the appeal. If the characters are like people we know in real life, it's easier to get into the story.
Well, one reason is that they can quickly deliver a punchline or a humorous situation. For example, in a short story, there's no need for a long build - up like in a novel. They can surprise you right away.
Humor. For example, in a funny short story, there are often unexpected twists like in the story where a man thought a 'Hornet' sign meant they sold wasps. These surprises make it appealing.
The simplicity also contributes. A funny short story doesn't need a lot of complex settings or characters. For example, the story of the boy and the caterpillar is simple. Just a boy, a caterpillar, and a book. But it's funny because of the naive idea of teaching a caterpillar to read. And the humor often comes from ordinary situations that are twisted in a humorous way. This allows readers to easily relate to the story while also being amused.
Well, it's often the simplicity. In a short story, there's no need for complex plots. Just a pure expression of love can be very appealing, like two people sharing a glance across a crowded room and instantly feeling a connection. It's that kind of immediate and intense emotion that draws us in.
Sedaris' vivid descriptions and unique voice. He has a way of painting a picture with his words that brings his stories to life. His observations are detailed and his delivery is so engaging that you can't help but be drawn into the humor of his tales, even if they are about mundane things.
In a thrilling and funny short story, the pacing is key. It quickly builds up the thrilling parts, creating suspense. Then, when the funny moments come, they are like a release of that tension. Also, the characters play a big role. Quirky characters in a dangerous or strange situation often lead to both thrills and laughter. Take 'The Stolen Bacillus' for instance. The madman's character is so extreme that it's funny, yet his actions create a thrilling situation.
They are appealing because they can quickly brighten your mood. Just a short read and you can have a good laugh.
Relatability also plays a big part. When we can see a bit of ourselves or someone we know in a story, it becomes more appealing. Like the story of the dog chasing its tail. Many of us have seen dogs do such silly things and it makes us laugh because we can relate to that innocent and silly behavior.
Humor. When a story has unexpected twists or silly situations, it's funny. For example, if a serious businessman suddenly starts dancing in the middle of a meeting for no reason, that's unexpected and funny.