Another characteristic is that it often plays with the reader's assumptions. It might set up a certain scenario that the reader interprets in a particular way, but then it flips it around. For instance, a character who seems to be the hero might turn out to be the villain in the end. And the whole story builds up to this revelation.
One characteristic is the element of surprise. The ending is not what you expect.
A 'a twist in the tail short story' often has an unexpected ending. It keeps the readers on their toes until the very last moment. The twist usually challenges the assumptions that the readers have made throughout the story.
A good 'twist in the tail' story surprises you. It makes you think you know where it's going, then throws in something unexpected at the end that changes everything.
Good use of atmosphere is crucial. Dark and gloomy settings, strange noises, or a sense of unease can enhance the impact of the plot twist. In a story set in an old, creaky house, the reader is already on edge. When the plot twist comes, like the discovery that the friendly neighbor who helped the main character move in is actually a serial killer who has been using the house to hide his victims, the atmosphere makes it even scarier.
One characteristic is the element of surprise. For example, in 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, the readers are led to believe it's a normal small - town lottery until the very end when it's revealed that the 'winner' will be stoned to death. Another characteristic is that they often make the reader re - evaluate the whole story. In a story with a twist ending, the events leading up to the end suddenly take on a different meaning. Also, they tend to be concise. Since they need to hold the reader's attention until the big reveal, they usually don't have a lot of unnecessary fluff.
One characteristic is the unexpected ending. For example, in a story where a person thinks they are safe, but suddenly something terrifying happens at the last moment. Another is the build - up of suspense. It makes the reader keep guessing what will happen next, like in a story where strange things keep occurring but there's no clear explanation until the twist. Also, they often play with the reader's fears, whether it's the fear of the unknown, like in a story set in a dark, deserted place, or the fear of something supernatural.
For a short story with a twist to be memorable, it often needs a well-built setup that lulls the reader into a false sense of security before delivering the shock. Also, the twist has to be logical within the context of the story, not just random.
Basically, it's the tale of Oliver, who faces poverty and cruelty but still hopes for a better life. He encounters various characters and situations that shape his journey.
Start by coming up with a basic plot. Then, introduce an unexpected element near the end that changes everything. It could be a surprise character reveal or a sudden plot turn.
One of the main themes is poverty. Oliver Twist is born into poverty and faces many hardships because of it. Another theme is social injustice. The poor are treated very badly in the society depicted in the story, like Oliver being mistreated in the workhouse. Also, the theme of good versus evil is present. Oliver represents good, while characters like Fagin can be seen as evil.
In this short story, perhaps Cinderella is a talented inventor in a steampunk - style world. Her stepmother and stepsisters don't recognize her worth. When the ball invitation arrives, she creates a magnificent flying contraption to get there. And at the ball, the prince is more interested in her inventions than her appearance. So she has to decide if she wants to be with someone who values her mind or if she should look for true love elsewhere.