Top fiction short stories often have a strong central idea. For example, they can convey a deep truth about human nature in just a few pages. They also tend to have well - developed characters, even if briefly described. In 'The Lottery', the characters' reactions to the lottery show different aspects of human behavior. Another characteristic is the use of vivid language. 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find' uses Southern dialect to bring the story to life. And they usually have a sense of unity, with every element contributing to the overall effect.
The top 100 science fiction short stories typically show great creativity in world - building. They create vivid and believable alternate universes. Some stories focus on dystopian futures, warning us about the potential negative outcomes of current trends like over - population or environmental degradation. Others might have a more optimistic view, showing how humanity can overcome great challenges through science and cooperation. And a lot of them play with scientific theories in really interesting ways.
One characteristic is their ability to convey deep themes in a concise manner. For example, many of them can explore complex human emotions like love, jealousy, and fear within just a few pages. Another is their diverse settings. They can be set in different time periods and places, from the cold Yukon in 'To Build a Fire' to a small village in 'The Lottery'.
One characteristic is their ability to surprise. In 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge', the ending is completely unexpected. They also often explore human nature in different ways. 'The Yellow Wallpaper' shows how a person's mental state can be affected by their environment. And they are diverse in terms of genre, from realistic to magical realism, which makes them appealing to a wide range of readers.
Well - developed characters are also common. In 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the main character's descent into madness is vividly portrayed. You can really feel her frustration and the slow erosion of her sanity as she is confined by her situation.
Well, they are often very imaginative. They can take you to different worlds, whether it's a fantastical realm full of magic or a historical setting. For example, some stories might be set in ancient Rome or a far - off planet.
One characteristic is that they can convey deep meanings in a limited space. 'The Yellow Wallpaper' for instance, makes a strong statement about women's oppression in just a short story. They also tend to have unique narrative styles. 'Hills Like White Elephants' has a very spare, dialogue - driven style that still manages to tell a full - fledged story with a lot of subtext.
Most of the top 10 horror short stories have vivid descriptions. In 'The Masque of the Red Death', Poe's detailed description of the rooms and the figure of Death creates a terrifying atmosphere. They also play with human fears. 'The Yellow Wallpaper' taps into the fear of confinement and madness. Additionally, they can use elements of the supernatural, as seen in many of these stories such as 'The Monkey's Paw' with its magic and cursed object.
They usually have a concise yet effective plot. In 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant, the plot is simple but full of twists. A woman borrows a necklace to look good at a party, loses it, and spends years in poverty to replace it, only to find out the original necklace was fake. This kind of plot that can surprise the reader in a short space is often seen in top selling short stories.
One characteristic is a strong plot. A good short story usually has a clear beginning, middle, and end that keeps the reader engaged. For instance, in 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant, the plot twist at the end is both surprising and thought - provoking.
One characteristic is the in - depth exploration of human nature. Chekhov's short stories often expose the hidden motives, desires, and flaws of his characters. For example, in 'The Lady with the Dog', the characters' complex feelings about their affair are laid bare. Another characteristic is the vivid descriptions of the Russian setting, which add authenticity and atmosphere to the stories, like in 'The Steppe'. Also, his stories usually have a sense of melancholy and a certain realism that makes the reader feel as if they are observing real - life situations.