The best short manga stories often have a clear and concise plot. They can quickly draw readers in and deliver a complete story arc without being overly long - winded. For example, they might focus on a single event or a short period in a character's life. Another characteristic is strong character development in a limited space. The characters need to be relatable and interesting right from the start.
Manga short stories often have concise plots. They can quickly introduce characters and conflicts. For example, in 'Black Butler', the main character's identity and his mission are presented in a short time. Also, they usually have unique art styles that are very appealing, like the detailed and dark art in 'Vampire Knight'.
Well, the best manga stories often have unique and engaging characters. For example, in 'One Piece', Luffy has a very distinct personality that draws readers in. They also usually have a well - developed plot, like in 'Fullmetal Alchemist' which has a complex and thought - provoking storyline about alchemy and human nature. Another characteristic is great art style. 'Attack on Titan' has a very detailed and impactful art style that enhances the overall story.
Horror manga short stories usually feature abnormal or cursed elements. Take 'Tomie' for instance. Tomie's very existence as an unkillable and alluring yet malevolent entity is what makes the story so horrifying. Another characteristic is the use of the unknown. In 'The Enigma of Amigara Fault', the mystery of what lies in the fault and why people are drawn to it creates a sense of dread.
They often have unique and disturbing art styles. For example, in Junji Ito's works, the detailed and grotesque drawings enhance the horror. Usually, they can convey a strong sense of unease and fear quickly, as they don't have a lot of space to waste. So they might use sudden plot twists or very abnormal concepts like in 'Gyo' where fish walking on land is a really freaky idea.
One characteristic is the use of cultural elements. In Japanese manga short horror stories, there are often references to Japanese folklore or superstitions, like the idea of vengeful spirits or cursed objects. They also tend to play with psychological horror. Instead of just relying on gore or jump scares, they get into the minds of the characters and the readers. This makes the horror more immersive. And the pacing is usually fast - paced, with events rapidly unfolding to keep the reader engaged in the short span of the story.
They are usually concise. They quickly get to the point of the love story, without a lot of long - winded build - up. For example, in 'A Silent Voice', the relationship between Shoya and Shoko develops in a relatively short span with powerful emotional moments.
Typically, they often have unique and disturbing art styles. The art can be very detailed in showing grotesque creatures or spooky settings. For example, in Junji Ito's works, the way he draws distorted faces and abnormal body shapes really adds to the horror factor. Another characteristic is the quick - paced plot. Since they are short stories, they need to build tension and horror quickly. There are often unexpected twists, like in 'Another' where the true identity of the 'extra' student is a big shock.
The best short short stories usually have a tight plot. Take 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge' for instance. The events are carefully crafted to build suspense and surprise. They also tend to have well - drawn characters despite their brevity. In 'Hills Like White Elephants', the two main characters' personalities and relationship are subtly revealed through their dialogue. Moreover, they can often make a big impact with just a few words, like 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' which leaves you pondering long after reading.
They probably have engaging plots. Since they are short stories, they need to grab the reader's attention quickly. So, there could be unexpected twists and turns, like in a mystery - themed story where the solution is not what you initially expect. In addition, the use of vivid language is common. With limited space, the authors need to create a vivid world. They might use unique descriptions of settings and characters to make them come alive in the reader's mind. This helps to make the short story memorable despite its brevity.
The short stories in 'best 2019 short stories' may also be known for their ability to evoke strong emotions in a limited number of words. They can make you feel joy, sadness, or surprise in just a few pages. Take a story about a child's first encounter with loss. It can be so poignant that it stays with you long after you've finished reading, even though it's a short piece.