What makes 'the best humorous short stories' so appealing?
The unexpected twists. In many of these stories, like in 'The Ransom of Red Chief' by O. Henry, things don't go as expected. A pair of kidnappers think they can easily get ransom for a boy, but the boy is so wild and unruly that they end up paying the boy's father to take him back. It's this kind of sudden turn of events that makes the stories appealing.
The relatable characters. For example, in 'The Catbird Seat' by James Thurber. Mr. Martin, an ordinary office worker, gets into a battle of wits with his female co - worker. We can all relate to having a difficult co - worker or being in a workplace drama, and the humorous way Thurber portrays it makes it engaging. These characters are often exaggerated just enough to be funny but still seem real. The stories are also appealing because they can make us laugh at the absurdities of life. We all experience strange and funny situations, and these stories magnify those in a way that we can enjoy.
The use of language. Many humorous short stories use clever wordplay, sarcasm, and irony. Take 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' by Frank R. Stockton. The ending is left open - ended, and the whole story is filled with irony as the princess has to make a choice between sending her lover to his death or to a new bride. The language used to build up the suspense and the ironic situation makes it a very appealing story.
What makes best humorous short stories so appealing?
The surprise factor. In a good humorous short story, like 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry, there are often unexpected turns. A couple sacrifices their most precious possessions for each other, but it turns out those possessions are related in a funny way. It catches the reader off - guard and makes them laugh.
What makes the stories in 'the best american humorous short stories' so appealing?
The humor. It can be sarcastic, slapstick or just plain witty. For example, in some stories, the characters' absurd actions or the unexpected twists in the plot make you laugh out loud.
What makes the stories in 'Best American Humorous Short Stories' so appealing?
They often depict relatable situations in a funny way. We've all had those awkward moments or met strange characters, and these stories capture that essence and exaggerate it for comical effect. Also, the different writing styles add to the appeal. Some authors use witty dialogue, while others rely on absurd plot twists to keep the reader entertained.
What makes fiction best humorous novels so appealing?
The humor in these novels is a big draw. It can make you laugh out loud, which is always a great feeling. For example, in 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy', the concept of the answer to life, the universe, and everything being 42 is so absurd yet so funny.
What makes Mark Twain's humorous short stories so appealing?
His use of vivid characters. For example, in many of his stories, the characters are ordinary people with big dreams or quirks. These characters are easy to relate to and their actions often lead to humorous situations.
What makes the best Saki short stories so appealing?
Well, his ability to create interesting characters. Whether it's a mischievous child or a self - important adult, the characters are well - drawn and complex. For example, in 'Tobermory', the cat is not just a simple talking animal but has its own personality and motives. Also, his stories often have unexpected twists and turns, like in 'The Open Window'. This keeps the readers on their toes and makes them eager to read more.
What makes best short love stories so appealing?
Best short love stories can be very relatable. Many people have had brief encounters or short - lived romances. These stories capture those experiences. Like the story of a summer fling. We can all identify with the intense feelings that come and go quickly in such relationships, and that's why they are so appealing.
What makes best action short stories so appealing?
First, the vivid descriptions of action scenes. In 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge', the detailed account of the man's supposed escape makes it exciting. Second, the conflict. Whether it's man vs. nature like in 'To Build a Fire' or man vs. man as in 'The Cask of Amontillado', the conflict drives the action. And finally, the unexpected twists. Stories like 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' keep you guessing until the very end which is highly appealing.
What makes the best Poirot short stories so appealing?
The mystery element. Each short story has a well - crafted mystery. For example, in 'The Submarine Plans', there are multiple suspects and red herrings. The plot keeps you guessing until Poirot reveals the truth. Also, the settings in which the mysteries occur, whether it's a posh hotel or a small village, add to the charm. The contrast between Poirot's foreign nature and the often very English settings creates an interesting dynamic.
What makes the best spooky short stories so appealing?
The suspense. In the best spooky short stories, like 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the suspense builds as the narrator gets closer and closer to his act of madness. You keep wondering what will happen next. Also, the unknown. In 'The Monkey's Paw', not knowing exactly what the paw will do when a wish is made keeps you on edge.