elements that make a good short story

Well, first of all, a good short story has a clear and concise narrative. There's no room for rambling in a short story, so every word counts. The story should be able to convey its essence quickly. Characterization is important too. The characters should be distinct enough that the reader can form an immediate impression. For instance, in Hemingway's short stories, his characters are often defined by their few but telling actions and words. Additionally, the pacing has to be right. It can't be too slow or the reader will lose interest, and not too fast that the story feels rushed. A good balance in pacing keeps the reader hooked from start to finish.

For a short story to be good, it should have a strong beginning to hook the readers, a middle that keeps them engaged, and a satisfying ending. Also, the theme should be clear and relevant. Good use of language and a unique perspective can make it stand out.

Well, first off, the plot needs to be unpredictable. If it's too straightforward, there won't be any surprise. In 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge', the plot twists are what make it a great surprise story. Also, the use of irony can be a powerful tool. Irony can create a situation where the expected is completely turned on its head. Additionally, the pacing is crucial. If the story moves too slowly, the reader might lose interest before the surprise comes, and if it's too fast, the surprise might feel rushed and not as impactful.

Well, a good miracle short story often has a sense of wonder. It makes the reader stop and think about the possibilities beyond the ordinary. Take the story of 'The Miraculous Revival'. The small acts of kindness leading to a big change create that sense of wonder. Also, the element of faith or belief is crucial. Whether it's religious faith or just belief in the goodness of people. If the characters in the story believe in something strongly, it adds to the impact when the miracle occurs. And of course, a well - crafted plot that builds up to the miracle moment is essential.

A good short story essay usually has a compelling plot that grabs the reader's attention from the start. It also has well-developed characters that the readers can relate to or find interesting.

Well, one important element is a strong character. For example, in 'The Great Gatsby', Jay Gatsby is a complex character with his dreams and desires, which drives the whole story. His mysterious past and his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan are what make the story interesting. Another element is a vivid setting. Take 'Wuthering Heights'. The desolate moors of Yorkshire add a sense of wildness and isolation to the story. The detailed description of the weather, the landscape, and the old houses helps to create an immersive atmosphere. And of course, a good plot is essential. A plot that has twists and turns, like in 'The Cask of Amontillado' where the narrator lures his so - called friend into the catacombs with the pretense of tasting a rare wine but actually to seek revenge. This kind of plot keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Well, one element is the unexpectedness. For example, if someone does a good deed in a really strange or unforeseen situation, like helping a stranger in a foreign land where there is a language barrier. Another is the emotional impact. If the good deed makes the receiver very emotional, like a poor family being given a large sum of money anonymously and their joy is palpable. Also, the selflessness of the doer. When it's clear that the person doing the good deed has nothing to gain personally.

Surprise. For example, if a character is known for being extremely punctual and then misses the most important appointment of their life due to their own over - confidence in their punctuality. It creates an ironic situation.

One element is the setting. For example, an old, abandoned place like an asylum or a cemetery can immediately create a spooky atmosphere. Another is the use of the unknown. If you leave things unexplained, like a strange noise in the dark that has no obvious source, it makes the reader's imagination run wild. And the presence of something not quite human, like a ghostly figure or a deformed creature, also adds to the creepiness.

For engineers, a good short story might include elements like innovative engineering concepts presented in an understandable way. It could also have characters who grow and learn through their engineering experiences, and maybe a touch of suspense or mystery related to the technical aspect.