Unique characters can also make a true story interesting. The story of Hedy Lamarr is a great example. She was a Hollywood actress in the 1930s and 1940s, but she was also a brilliant inventor. She developed a frequency - hopping technology that was way ahead of its time and is now used in modern Wi - Fi and Bluetooth technology. Her combination of beauty, fame and scientific genius makes her story fascinating.
Struggles and triumphs are key. Take the story of Nelson Mandela. He spent 27 years in prison for his fight against apartheid in South Africa. But he emerged from prison and led his country to a new era of equality. His long struggle and ultimate victory make his story one of the most powerful and interesting.
Surprise can be an element. For example, two people who thought they were just friends suddenly realize they are in love. It's like a bolt from the blue and makes the story interesting.
The absurdity of the situation. In the case of the squirrel and the yoga guy. A squirrel mistaking a person for a tree is completely absurd. And when the normal routine is disrupted in a strange way, like the flower girl at the wedding chasing a butterfly instead of doing her job, it creates a really interesting and funny story. People can relate to the normal situations, and when they are turned on their head like that, it's both crazy and hilarious.
The unexpectedness. For example, like in the story where the sushi flew across the table. No one anticipates that kind of clumsiness on a date, and it's that sudden deviation from the normal, proper date behavior that makes it funny.
The absurdity of the situations in these stories is a big factor. Like the woman talking about her cat's toy in a job interview. It's so out of place and unexpected that it becomes funny. Also, the fact that these are true events adds an extra layer of charm. It's like, 'this really happened to someone, not just a made - up joke'.
The unexpectedness. In most of these stories, something completely unplanned happens. Like when you trip in public out of nowhere. It catches everyone off guard and that's what makes it funny and embarrassing at the same time.
Often, it's the element of human perseverance. In many inspiring true stories, like that of Lance Armstrong (before his doping scandal). He overcame cancer and then went on to win the Tour de France multiple times. His ability to fight through a life - threatening illness and still compete at a high level was a display of great perseverance.
Unpredictability. In the scariest true stories, like the Zodiac Killer case, the fact that no one knew who the killer was or when he would strike next was terrifying. It could be anyone, anywhere, at any time.
One element is the unexpected. For example, in a true short story, if a person who seems to be a beggar turns out to be a millionaire in disguise. Another is emotion. If the story can make you feel happy, sad or surprised like a story about a long - lost friendship being rekindled. And also, unique characters. A story with an eccentric old lady who has strange habits can be very interesting.
Surprise endings can make a sad story interesting. For example, when you think a character is going to be saved but then they aren't. It catches the reader off - guard.
The atmosphere is crucial. Dark, desolate settings like old mansions or abandoned asylums create a sense of dread. Another element is the element of the unknown. If a character in a story hears strange noises but can't figure out where they are coming from, it builds suspense. For instance, in the haunted house story, the couple heard whispers but couldn't tell who or what was making them.