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Writing Short Stories

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41 views3 pages

Writing Short Stories

Uploaded by

nguyentankiettr0909
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Writing Short Stories

Writing short stories is a delightful endeavor that allows you to explore characters, plots, and
ideas within a concise framework. Let’s dive into the essential elements and steps for crafting
engaging short stories:
1. Core Elements of a Short Story:
o Protagonist with a Desire or Need: Your main character should want something
they don’t have. This desire drives the story forward.
o Clear Dilemma: Present a problem or conflict that the protagonist faces. We’re
more interested in how they resolve it than in extensive backstory.
o Decision: What action does the protagonist take to address their dilemma?
o Climax: The peak of tension, where the reader discovers the outcome of the
protagonist’s decision.
o Outcome: How does the climax change the protagonist? Are they a different
person afterward?
o Note: Short stories rarely have subplots; focus on a single central storyline.
2. Writing Tips:
o Mine Your Imagination: Start with brainstorming. Let your creativity flow and
explore various ideas.
o Overcome Creative Blocks: If you’re stuck, try writing prompts or skip to a
different scene and work backward.
o Sprint: Set a timer (e.g., 10 minutes) and write without stopping. This can help
break through writer’s block.
3. Pacing and Sequence:
o Exposition: Introduce characters, setting, and initial situation.
o Rising Action: Build tension by presenting obstacles and challenges.
o Climax: The turning point where the conflict reaches its peak.
o Falling Action: Show the aftermath of the climax.
o Resolution: Conclude the story, addressing the protagonist’s transformation or
new perspective.
4. Creating a Story Outline:
o Start with a central idea or theme.
o Develop your protagonist and their desire.

Subject/Level: Writing/Upper Intermediate Teacher: Mr. Alfie


o Outline the key events (dilemma, decision, climax, outcome).
o Consider pacing—balance action, reflection, and tension.
5. Examples of Well-Paced Short Stories:
o “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson: A seemingly innocent lottery takes a dark
turn.
o “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry: A couple sacrifices for each other.
o “Hills Like White Elephants” by Ernest Hemingway: A conversation reveals
deeper issues.
o “The Tell-Tale Heart” by Edgar Allan Poe: A chilling exploration of guilt and
madness.
Remember, short stories allow you to experiment, so have fun and let your creativity
flow!

Steps on Short Story Writing

1. Start with an Idea:


o Brainstorm and let your imagination run wild. Think about intriguing scenarios,
unique characters, or unexpected twists.
o Consider using writing prompts to kickstart your creativity.
2. Outline Your Plot:
o Sketch out the main events of your story. What happens at the beginning, middle,
and end?
o Focus on a central conflict or dilemma that drives the narrative.
3. Create Compelling Characters:
o Develop characters with desires, needs, and flaws. Your protagonist should want
something they don’t have.
o Keep backstory minimal; readers care more about how characters handle their
current situation.
4. Set the Scene:
o Describe the setting to immerse readers in your story. Use sensory details to evoke
emotions.
o Consider the time, place, and atmosphere.

Subject/Level: Writing/Upper Intermediate Teacher: Mr. Alfie


5. Build Conflict:
o Introduce obstacles, challenges, or opposing forces that prevent the protagonist
from achieving their goal.
o Conflict keeps readers engaged and invested.
6. Choose a Point of View (POV):
o Decide whether to narrate from first person (I), second person (you), or third
person (he/she/they).
o Consistency in POV is crucial.
7. Craft Dialogue:
o Use dialogue to reveal character traits, relationships, and move the plot forward.
o Keep it natural and purposeful.
8. Reach the Climax:
o In Freytag’s Pyramid, the climax is the peak of tension. It’s where the protagonist
faces their dilemma head-on.
o Readers discover the outcome of the protagonist’s decision.
9. Provide a Satisfying Resolution:
o After the climax, show how the protagonist has changed. Are they a different
person? Do they have a new outlook on life?
o Tie up loose ends and leave readers with a sense of closure.
Remember, short stories rarely have subplots—focus on a single, central storyline. Keep
your prose clear, concise, and engaging.

Subject/Level: Writing/Upper Intermediate Teacher: Mr. Alfie

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