ideas for good short stories

One good idea often found in short stories is the 'twist ending'. For example, in O. Henry's stories like 'The Gift of the Magi'. The couple sacrifices their most precious possessions for each other, only to find out the gifts they bought are now useless, but it shows their deep love. This kind of twist makes the story memorable.

Draw from personal experiences. Your own life is full of unique situations and emotions that can be translated into a short story. For instance, a memorable trip could be the basis for a story about self - discovery.

A short story idea could revolve around time travel. A scientist accidentally travels back in time to a crucial moment in history. He has to decide whether to interfere or not, and his every action has unforeseen consequences. It can explore themes like fate, free will, and the impact of small actions.

One idea could be a chance encounter at a coffee shop. A girl accidentally spills her coffee on a guy. Instead of getting angry, he smiles and they start talking. Their conversation leads to more meetings and eventually they fall in love.

A good idea for a short mystery story is a cursed object. For example, a beautiful antique mirror that brings bad luck to anyone who looks into it. People start having accidents or misfortunes after looking at it. The mystery could be about finding out the origin of the curse and how to break it. Another is a missing heirloom that has a lot of sentimental value. It was last seen in a particular room of an old mansion. The main character has to search through old family secrets and hidden passages to find it. Also, a mystery about a strange symbol that keeps appearing around town. No one knows what it means, and it seems to be linked to some sort of underground cult or a long - lost treasure.

A story about a talking dog who has an argument with a cat over who is the better pet. The dog barks out reasons like 'I can fetch and protect the house!' while the cat just lazily meows back with sassy remarks. This can lead to all kinds of humorous exchanges between the two animals.

One idea could be a world where magic is tied to emotions. So, when a person is extremely happy, they can create beautiful, floating lights, but when angry, they summon dark, stormy clouds. Another could be a story about a magical library that holds the memories of every person who has ever lived. The main character could be a librarian who discovers a plot to erase certain memories.

A story about a time - traveling detective who has to solve a mystery in different eras. He could start in the Victorian era, find a clue that leads him to the 1920s, and so on.

A spooky old mansion on the outskirts of town. It could be filled with creaking floorboards, dusty portraits, and hidden rooms. This setting can add an element of mystery and horror to a short story.

One conflict idea could be a character vs. society. For example, a young artist in a conservative town where art is not seen as a legitimate career. The town's values and expectations conflict with the artist's dreams.