Well, they are usually very concise. Flash fiction is known for its brevity, often getting to the point quickly and leaving a strong impact in just a few pages or even paragraphs.
Another one could be 'A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings' by Gabriel García Márquez. This story combines magical realism with elements of fable, making it a unique and thought - provoking read. The old man with wings is a mysterious figure that the villagers react to in different ways, exploring themes of human nature and the unknown.
Well, they are very brief. Usually, they can convey a complete story or a strong idea in just a few pages or even a few paragraphs. They often focus on one key moment or situation. For example, they might zero in on a single conversation or a brief encounter. And they tend to leave a lot to the reader's imagination. Since they don't have much space to explain everything in detail, the reader has to fill in the gaps.
One characteristic is their economy of language. Every word counts in short flash fiction stories. They also tend to have open - endedness. They don't always tie up all the loose ends, leaving room for the reader to think and interpret. Another aspect is that they can cover a wide range of genres and themes. They can be horror, love, science - fiction, etc., all in a very concise form.
Well, flash fiction is concise. Usually, it's defined as a story that can be told in under 1,500 words, sometimes even fewer than 500 words, depending on the specific requirements or the writer's style.
In flash fiction short stories, concise language is key. Since they are very short, every word must count. Also, a strong central idea or theme is crucial. For example, a story might revolve around a single moment of realization. Another important element is the ability to create vivid characters quickly. Even in just a few sentences, the reader should be able to get a sense of who the character is. And often, there's a twist or surprise at the end to leave a strong impact on the reader in such a short span.
In very short flash fiction stories, the pacing is often fast. There's no time for long, drawn - out descriptions or slow build - ups. They have to hook the reader immediately. Also, they can be experimental in form. Some may not follow the traditional story structure. They can use unique narrative voices or perspectives. Moreover, they are great at creating an atmosphere or mood quickly. With just a few sentences, they can set a tone of mystery, sadness, or joy.
Often, classic flash fiction short stories have a twist at the end. This is a way to surprise the reader and make them reevaluate the whole story they've just read. Take 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' by Frank R. Stockton. The ending leaves the reader to decide the fate of the character, which is a very clever way to engage the reader even after they've finished reading.
Flash fictions often have a strong focus. Since they are so short, they can't afford to wander. They need to zero in on a particular moment, emotion, or situation. For example, it might focus on a single encounter between two people and through that, reveal a lot about the characters and their relationship. Another characteristic is that they can be very impactful. Despite their brevity, they can leave a deep impression on the reader because they have to be so carefully crafted to get the point across in such a short space.