One popular way to begin a short story is with a character's unique perspective. If the story is about a war, starting from the point of view of a child who doesn't really understand what's going on but sees the destruction can be very engaging. Also, starting with a description of a character's most distinctive feature, like a scar on their face that has a story behind it, can draw readers in. Beginning with a time - sensitive situation, such as a bomb about to explode, is also a well - liked way.
A popular way is to start with a hook. This could be a startling fact or statistic. For example, '90% of people who enter that old house never come out.' Another way is to start with a character in a difficult situation, like a detective who has just lost his only lead in a big case. Starting with a dream or a vision can also be popular, as it adds an element of mystery and the unknown.
Beginning a short story can be done in several ways. A good option is to start with a strong statement that sets the tone for the whole story. For instance, 'The world ended that day, but no one noticed at first.' Another approach is to open with a sense of mystery, perhaps by introducing a character who has lost their memory and doesn't know who they are. You could also start with a moment of high emotion, like a character crying over a broken heart, which instantly creates an emotional connection with the reader.
One good way is to start with a vivid description of a place or a character. For example, 'In the small, dusty town, there was a man with a crooked hat and a mysterious glint in his eye.' It immediately draws the reader in and makes them curious about what will happen next.
Starting with an interesting description can also be very effective. You could describe a setting in a vivid way, like 'The old, creaking house stood at the end of the overgrown lane, its windows like dark, empty eyes staring into the night.' This kind of description sets the mood for the story and draws the reader into the scene. Another option is to start with an action. 'She ran as fast as she could, her heart pounding in her chest, not daring to look back.' This creates immediate tension and makes the reader want to know why the character is running.
A strong action scene can also be an excellent start. Imagine a high - speed car chase through the busy streets of a city. The screeching of tires, the blaring of horns, and the sense of danger right from the get - go can grip the reader's attention. Starting a novel this way gives an immediate sense of energy and excitement.
Another way is to begin with a strong statement. For example, 'Love is the most powerful force in the universe, but it can also be the most destructive.' This sets a tone for the story and makes the reader want to know how this statement will be explored. It gives a sense of the theme from the very start.
A great way is to start with a character's thought. 'She wondered if she would ever find her true purpose in this big, cold city. The wind whipped at her hair as she stared out of the window of her small apartment.' It makes the character relatable.
One way is with a twist. For example, the character who seemed to be the hero turns out to be the villain all along. This surprises the reader and makes them rethink the whole story.
To begin a short story, think of a unique opening line that grabs attention. Or start by describing a vivid place or moment. You want to make the reader curious and eager to keep reading.
A good way to start a novel is to introduce a conflict right away. Maybe it's a character who has just received some bad news, like being fired from their job. This creates instant tension and gives the reader a reason to keep reading to see how the character will deal with the situation.
Beginning with a series of strange clues can also be great for a mystery story. For example, 'A single white feather was found on the doorstep. Next to it, a small, hand - drawn map with no markings. And on the wall, a strange symbol had been carved.' This piles up the mystery right from the start and gets the reader's mind working to try and figure out how these things are related. You could also start with a question that sets the mystery, such as 'Who was the figure seen lurking in the graveyard at midnight? And why did they disappear without a trace?'