A Good Short Story is Like a Bonsai | Writing and Speaking

October 11th, 2011 by Carrie Pepper

One of the most pleasurable and most difficult art forms is the short story. There is no room for anything in a short story that doesn?t belong, so when you write one, you must be ruthless. Longer stories are easier because there is more time to draw out

A good short story evokes emotions and you have to get the point quickly; there?s no time to dawdle. One of the best short story writers today, Stephen King, says, ?A short story is a different thing all together ? a short story is like a kiss in the dark from a stranger.? It?s like a bonsai; it needs a lot of pruning.

Five key elements of any short story are: character, setting, plot, conflict and theme. If you want to learn more about how to write a good short story, there are online degree classes in storytelling or creative writing. A short story is short work of fiction; some are very short; longer short stories are called novellas.

One of the best ways to learn how to write a good short story is to read the works of the masters. Some of the best of all time were Mark Twain, O.Henry, Edgar Allen Poe and Jack London. Read their stories and learn the craft from the best.

While writing a short story, imagine you are writing to one specific person. If you can make it that personal, the connection will bring that story alive. Writing a good short story is a blend of imagination, heart and skill, and perhaps even a little luck.

Carrie Pepper writes about online colleges, Christian colleges, and financial aid.

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Tags:Creative Writing,Writing,writing short stories,Writing Tips

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