A clear goal for the main character. If the character is trying to win a competition, it gives direction to the story. And along the way, there can be obstacles related to achieving that goal, which makes the plot more interesting.
Unexpected twists. For instance, in a story about a job interview, suddenly the interviewer turns out to be an old acquaintance with a grudge. This kind of unexpected element can really hook the reader and make for a great plot. It adds an element of surprise and keeps the reader guessing about what will happen next in the story.
Surprise is key. For example, in 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. At first, it seems like a normal small - town lottery. But then it turns out the 'winner' is actually going to be stoned to death. The sudden shift from a seemingly positive event to a horrific one is what makes it a great plot twist.
A good plot in a short story often has a clear beginning, middle, and end. It should have an engaging conflict or problem that keeps the reader interested.
A good short story plot often has a clear beginning, middle, and end. It also has an interesting conflict or problem that keeps the reader engaged.
A good friend is someone who's always there for you, listens when you need to talk, and supports you through thick and thin.
A good setting for short stories is one that catches the reader's attention. It might be a post-apocalyptic wasteland or a fantasy world full of magic. The key is that it adds depth and context to the story.
A good plot in a short story should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. For instance, it could start with a problem or a situation that grabs the reader's attention, like in 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. The middle should build tension, and the end should resolve the situation in a satisfying or thought - provoking way.
Social stories are good for a variety of reasons. They assist in preparing for new experiences, reducing anxiety in social settings, and promoting positive behavior. They act as a guide for better social navigation.
For a short story to be good in 'good and bad short stories', it often has a unique voice. The author's style should be distinct and add to the overall atmosphere of the story. Take 'The Dead' by James Joyce. His use of language creates a melancholic and immersive mood. On the other hand, a bad short story may have a dull or unoriginal voice. In terms of plot structure, a good short story has a proper build - up and resolution. A bad one might rush through the story without proper development. Moreover, a good short story can evoke emotions in the reader. If it fails to do so, like some stories that are just a list of events, it can be considered bad.
Chekov's short stories are good because of his masterful character development. He can create complex, believable characters in just a few pages. For example, in 'The Lady with the Dog', the two main characters are fully fleshed out, and their relationship is nuanced.
Good middle school short stories often have relatable characters. For example, characters who are going through typical middle - school experiences like making friends or dealing with schoolwork. This makes it easy for middle school students to connect with the story.