Well, one element is the unexpectedness. For example, if someone does a good deed in a really strange or unforeseen situation, like helping a stranger in a foreign land where there is a language barrier. Another is the emotional impact. If the good deed makes the receiver very emotional, like a poor family being given a large sum of money anonymously and their joy is palpable. Also, the selflessness of the doer. When it's clear that the person doing the good deed has nothing to gain personally.
A good deed short story can be interesting if it involves a transformation. Maybe the person who does the good deed was once not so kind, but something changed them. Also, the setting can play a role. A good deed done in a war - torn area or a very difficult environment is more captivating. And of course, the details of the good deed itself. If it's something unique, like a person donating a very precious heirloom to help others in need, that makes the story interesting.
One element is selflessness. For example, in a story where someone donates their time to help the needy without expecting anything in return. It shows that people can be kind just for the sake of being kind.
One element is selflessness. When someone does something good without expecting anything in return, like the boy helping the old lady carry groceries. Another is the impact it has on others. The man adopting the stray dog changed the dog's whole life. Also, the simplicity of the act can be inspiring. Just like the girl watering the plants in the community garden, it was a simple act but had a big effect.
One element is the character's internal struggle. For example, if a person is afraid of heights but still climbs a tall building to save someone. The conflict between their fear and their sense of duty makes the story engaging.
Characters are important. If they are well - developed and relatable, the story becomes engaging. For example, in 'The Gift of the Magi', the selfless love of the couple makes you care about them. Also, a good plot with twists and turns like in 'The Monkey's Paw' keeps the reader hooked. And the setting can add a lot. If it's described vividly, like the spooky old house in some horror short stories, it sets the mood.
Characters are important. For example, if you have a really unique character like a talking parrot in a story, it catches the reader's attention. Also, an unexpected plot twist. Imagine a story where a poor man is thought to be a thief, but at the end, it turns out he was trying to save someone. Another element is the setting. A spooky old castle as a setting can make a story very interesting.
Surprise. For example, in a story, a character who seems ordinary suddenly has a superpower. It catches the reader off - guard.
Another theme might be the power of kindness. In the 'the good deed short story', if the good deed has a far - reaching impact on the people around the character, it shows how kindness can spread and make a difference. It could also be about redemption. Maybe the character who does the good deed was once in a bad place and this act of kindness is a way for them to make up for past mistakes.
A good plot and relatable characters. A compelling good deed short story usually has an interesting plot that keeps you engaged and characters you can empathize with.
Well, first of all, a good short story has a clear and concise narrative. There's no room for rambling in a short story, so every word counts. The story should be able to convey its essence quickly. Characterization is important too. The characters should be distinct enough that the reader can form an immediate impression. For instance, in Hemingway's short stories, his characters are often defined by their few but telling actions and words. Additionally, the pacing has to be right. It can't be too slow or the reader will lose interest, and not too fast that the story feels rushed. A good balance in pacing keeps the reader hooked from start to finish.
For a short story to be good, it should have a strong beginning to hook the readers, a middle that keeps them engaged, and a satisfying ending. Also, the theme should be clear and relevant. Good use of language and a unique perspective can make it stand out.