Well, a meeting could be strange if there are elements like hidden identities, mysterious motives, or if it happens in a dream-like or fantastical context. Maybe the people meeting have a history that's full of surprises or conflicts that surface during the meeting.
A strange meeting in a short story might occur when the circumstances are out of the ordinary. Like meeting in a haunted place or having a conversation that takes an unpredictable turn. It could also be due to the timing being very unusual.
It could be unexpected characters or a peculiar setting. Maybe a twist in the plot or odd behavior from the people involved.
Perhaps it's a meeting between an alien and a human in a far-off galaxy. This encounter could change the course of both their lives and bring about new adventures and challenges.
The visitor might be strange because of their appearance. They could have an unusual style of dress or a physical feature that stands out. For example, they might be very tall or have a strange mark on their face.
The strangeness in a Japanese short story can come from many aspects. It could be the strange combination of emotions or the way the story plays with time and space. Sometimes, it's the author's unique writing style that makes it stand out as strange.
A Christmas meeting short story can be interesting when it has a strong theme. For instance, the theme of forgiveness. Maybe two characters who have had a feud for years finally make up during the Christmas meeting. The story could show how the Christmas season, with its message of love and peace, can heal old wounds. The way the characters interact and how their relationships evolve during the meeting can draw the reader in and make the story truly captivating. There could also be a touch of magic, like a snowflake that seems to have special powers and influences the course of the meeting.
A good plot twist and relatable characters can make it engaging. Maybe a surprise encounter or a heartfelt conversation during the Christmas meeting can draw readers in.
The contrast between the normal and the strange. For instance, if a story is set in a modern city and suddenly a time - traveler from the past appears. This contrast of different eras and the implications of such an encounter, like how the time - traveler reacts to the modern world and vice versa, can make for a very interesting short story. It can also be interesting when the strange encounter challenges the protagonist's beliefs or world view. Maybe they were a skeptic about the supernatural but then have a face - to - face encounter with a ghost - like entity, which forces them to reevaluate what they thought was possible.
A unique setting and unexpected plot twists can make it captivating. Also, well-developed characters and their emotional responses to the strange encounter add to the appeal.
It could be the unexpected plot twist or the unconventional characters. Something that breaks the norm and catches the reader off guard.
The story stands out for its unique plot twist and the element of mystery it brings. It keeps readers engaged and guessing until the end.
It could be the nature of the puzzle itself. For instance, if the pieces don't fit together in a normal way, like they have irregular shapes or defy the laws of geometry. That would be really strange.