A great short story also has a distinct theme. It might be about love, like in many romantic short stories, or it could be about society and its problems. In short, the theme gives the story depth and meaning, making it more than just a sequence of events.
One characteristic is a strong and unique voice. The narrator's voice can draw readers in immediately. Another is a well - crafted plot. It doesn't have to be overly complex, but it should be engaging. Also, vivid and memorable characters are important. For example, in some of Raymond Carver's short stories, his simple language and ordinary characters dealing with complex emotions make his works great contemporary short stories.
Well, a great erotic short story often has vivid descriptions. It can paint a very detailed picture of the characters' emotions and the physical interactions. For example, it might describe the way a character's heart races when their love interest touches them.
The best short story usually has well - developed characters. Even in a short space, the characters seem real and relatable. In 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find' by Flannery O'Connor, the complex characters add depth to the story.
A best and short story often has a deep theme. It can make the reader think about important aspects of life. 'The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas' by Ursula K. Le Guin is a short story that makes readers reflect on the concept of happiness and the price a society might pay for it. It uses a simple yet powerful narrative to explore this complex theme.
One characteristic is a concise plot. For example, in 'The Gift of the Magi', the whole story revolves around the couple's simple yet profound act of self - sacrifice. Another is the ability to create a strong emotional impact in a short space. 'The Lottery' shocks readers with its unexpected and cruel ending. Also, vivid characters can be created quickly. In 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find', the grandmother is a complex and memorable character.
The best short stories usually have an engaging plot. Take 'Hills Like White Elephants' for instance. The simple conversation between the two characters holds a lot of mystery and tension. They also tend to have a unique narrative voice. In 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the first - person narration really lets the reader get into the mind of the protagonist. And most good short stories leave a lasting impression, like 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' which makes you think about human nature long after reading.
Well, one characteristic is a tight narrative structure. There's no room for rambling in a 1000 - word short story. Take 'The Cask of Amontillado' by Edgar Allan Poe. It has a simple yet effective structure of leading the victim into the catacombs for revenge. Another aspect is vivid description within a limited word count. In 'A Rose for Emily' by William Faulkner, Faulkner manages to paint a picture of the reclusive Emily and her strange life with just enough detail. Also, it often contains a universal truth or emotion. 'To Build a Fire' by Jack London shows the power of nature and man's struggle against it, which is a relatable concept.
A best short moral story is often simple. For example, like the story of the hare and the tortoise. It has a clear plot that is easy to understand quickly.
The best Keillor short story might be characterized by its strong sense of place. He has a way of making the setting feel like a character itself. His descriptions of the Midwest, for example, are so detailed that you can almost smell the air and see the landscapes. His stories also tend to have a certain charm in the way they are told. There's a simplicity and yet a depth to his narrative style that makes the stories both easy to read and thought - provoking at the same time.
A great oral short story typically has a strong theme. It could be about love, friendship, or a moral lesson. This theme ties the whole story together. The pacing is crucial as well. It shouldn't be too slow or the listener will get bored, and not too fast that they can't keep up. The storyteller's voice also plays a part. A good story can be made even better with the right intonation and emphasis on certain words and phrases.