best modern english short stories

They are often concise yet impactful. They manage to convey deep emotions and complex ideas in just a few pages.

Sure. One great story could be 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. It's a thought - provoking tale that shows how blindly following traditions can have dark consequences.

They often have concise plots. For example, many can convey deep emotions or complex ideas in just a few pages.

The stories typically feature a variety of characters. Some may be ordinary people facing extraordinary situations, while others could be complex individuals with their own motives and secrets. In 'Modern English Short Stories', the narrative styles also vary. There are stories with first - person narrators, giving a more personal touch, and others with third - person omniscient narrators that can provide a broader view of the story's world.

One characteristic is a concise plot. For example, in 'The Most Dangerous Game', the story quickly sets up the situation of a hunter becoming the hunted on an island. Another is strong character development in a short span. In 'The Cask of Amontillado', we can clearly see the vengeful nature of Montresor. Also, they often have a powerful theme. 'To Build a Fire' shows man's struggle against nature in a very short space.

Well, 'The Necklace' is a well - known English short story. It tells the story of a woman who borrows a necklace to attend a ball, loses it, and then spends years in poverty trying to replace it, only to find out at the end that the original necklace was fake. Also, Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Tell - Tale Heart' is a classic. The narrator's descent into madness while being haunted by the old man's 'vulture - eye' makes for a thrilling read. Then there's 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge' by Ambrose Bierce. It plays with the concept of time and the illusions of a man about to be hanged.

Well, they often have engaging plots. They can draw you in quickly and keep you hooked till the end. For example, many use vivid language to create a strong sense of place and character.

Another great short story is 'A Rose for Emily' by William Faulkner. It's a rather dark and complex story about a southern belle named Emily. It delves into themes of tradition, change, and the passage of time. The townspeople's view of Emily and the mystery surrounding her actions make it a very engaging read.

Some good mystery English short stories include 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman. It's a story full of mystery as the narrator's mental state deteriorates while she is confined to a room with strange wallpaper. 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' by Frank R. Stockton is also interesting. The ending is left ambiguous, leaving the reader to wonder whether the lady or the tiger came out of the door. Also, 'The Cask of Amontillado' by Edgar Allan Poe, where a man exacts a very devious revenge in a catacomb, filled with mystery and suspense.

A great one to start with could be 'The Boy Next Door' if you like romance. It's a simple yet engaging short story. Another is 'The Mystery of the Old House' for mystery lovers. It has an interesting plot that keeps you guessing.