Well, extremely short stories can be very impactful despite their brevity. They can leave a strong impression on the reader in a short time. Since they are so short, every word counts. Writers of such stories need to be very precise with their language use. They might use unique narrative techniques, like starting right in the middle of the action or ending with a thought - provoking question. These stories can cover a wide range of genres, from horror to comedy, but always in a very condensed form.
They are concise. Usually, they convey a complete idea or a small moment in just a few sentences or paragraphs.
Extremely short stories often focus on one key element, like a single character's thought or a brief event. For example, they might tell about a stranger's kind gesture in a very limited number of words. They lack the complex plot development and numerous sub - plots of longer stories, aiming to make an impact quickly with a minimalist approach.
Another characteristic is simplicity. They often have a simple plot that can be easily understood. A short and simple situation like the snail getting mugged by turtles is easy to grasp and the absurdity of it is what makes it funny. The humor doesn't rely on complex setups or long explanations. Just a quick and simple scenario that tickles your funny bone.
They are concise. They often rely on a single, powerful image or idea like a sudden noise in the dark. For example, 'I saw a face at the window. Then it was gone.'
Well, they often rely on common fears such as the unknown or things that go against the natural order. In an extremely short scary story, it might be something like 'The clock stopped at midnight. Then I heard a strange ticking from inside the wall.' It plays on our fear of the unexpected in a small space.
Intertextuality is also common. These short stories often reference other works of literature, art, or culture. They can borrow elements from different sources and remix them in a new and unexpected way. This creates a rich tapestry of allusions and connections that add depth to the short, postmodern form.
They are brief. Usually, just a few sentences can tell the whole story. For example, 'A frog wanted to be a prince. He kissed a lot of things but just got warts.' It gets to the funny point quickly without a lot of build - up.
In extremely dark fantasy stories, the color palette in the descriptions is often muted and somber. Dark colors like black, gray, and deep purple dominate. The storylines can be convoluted and full of twists. There may be a lot of internal conflict within the characters. They could be struggling with their own dark desires or past traumas. And the magic or supernatural elements in these stories are not always used for good. They can be a source of corruption and destruction.
They are quick to tell, which is great when kids are already very sleepy. For example, a short story can calm them down fast without taking much time.
Here are some recommended short stories that are extremely heartbreaking: " I Heard You Came From Moonlight ": This is a heart-wrenching, unconventional short story with an exciting plot that makes one's heart ache. 2. " Mr. Fang, Please Let Go for the Rest of Your Life ": This was a heart-wrenching storyline that tugged at one's heartstrings. 3. " Love You, A Prosperous Dream ": This novel tells the story of how Ye Qiao sacrificed everything to marry Xu Zhi Shen, but eventually realized that there was no future between them. These novels were all about heartbreak, and the plot was compact and touching.
One top market is 'Clarkesworld Magazine'. It often features short stories, and very short ones have a chance to be included. Another is 'Lightspeed Magazine'. They are open to different lengths of stories, and very short ones can fit well. Also, self - publishing on your own blog can be a good market. You can build your own audience who are specifically interested in your very short stories.
Another theme could be loneliness. Many sad short stories feature characters who are alone, either physically or emotionally. For example, an old man living in a big empty house with no family or friends around. He feels so isolated and sad. This loneliness often leads to a sense of despair in the characters.