What makes a short story a good story?

A good short story often has a strong plot. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the plot of the narrator's guilt over the murder he committed drives the whole story forward. It also needs interesting characters. Like in 'The Cask of Amontillado', Montresor and Fortunato are both complex characters. And a good short story usually has a clear theme, such as the exploration of human nature in 'Young Goodman Brown'.

Well - developed characters are key to a good short story. Even in a short amount of space, the characters need to feel real and three - dimensional. Their actions and decisions should drive the story forward. Also, the use of vivid language and imagery can make a short story great. It helps the reader visualize the story's setting and events more clearly, like in Edgar Allan Poe's short stories where his descriptions create a spooky and immersive atmosphere.

A good short story often has a strong plot. It grabs the reader's attention from the start and keeps them engaged until the end. For example, in 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry, the unexpected twist at the end makes the story memorable.

Well, a short good story usually has a concise yet impactful beginning. It grabs the reader's attention right away. Take 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge' as an example. The opening scene of a man about to be hanged is very gripping. Then, the development should be logical and paced well. There should be some sort of conflict, either internal or external. In many short stories, the ending is also crucial. It can be a twist ending like in 'The Monkey's Paw' which leaves the reader thinking long after reading.

For a short story to be good, it needs well-developed characters. The readers should be able to relate to or be intrigued by them. Also, the language should be concise yet evocative.

A good short story has a clear and engaging plot that grabs the reader's attention from the start.

A good short story usually has a compelling plot that grabs the reader's attention right away. It also has well-developed characters that the readers can relate to or find interesting.

A good short story often has concise yet vivid descriptions that paint a picture in the reader's mind. It also has a message or lesson that makes you think after you finish reading. Good dialogue and a sense of tension or conflict can add to its appeal.

A good short story often has a unique theme or message. It's concise yet powerful, making every word count. The pacing is important too - not too slow or too fast. And it should offer some sort of insight or new perspective.

For a short story to be good, it needs interesting characters that readers can relate to or find fascinating. Also, the language should be vivid and concise to convey the story effectively within a limited space.