What makes a satirical short story one of the best?

One factor is its ability to simplify complex political ideas. The best ones can break down big political concepts into understandable and engaging stories. They use characters and situations that are easy to follow. For instance, in 'Animal Farm', the different animals represent different classes or groups in society. This allows readers to see how power dynamics work without getting bogged down in complex political jargon. Additionally, a good political satirical short story has longevity. It can remain relevant over time, as the underlying political problems it addresses, like inequality or abuse of power, are often long - standing issues.

A strong satirical story often has a clear target. For example, '1984' by George Orwell targets totalitarian governments. It exaggerates and distorts the features of such regimes like constant surveillance and control over thoughts to make the readers see the horror and absurdity. So, a defined object of satire is crucial.

A good satirical short story has a sharp wit and a clear target. It uses humor and exaggeration to expose flaws or absurdities in a way that makes people think.

A great short short story often has a strong concept. For example, it can convey a deep emotion or idea in just a few pages. If it has a unique plot twist like in 'The Gift of the Magi', it can be really engaging. Also, the use of language matters. A story that uses vivid and concise language can be very effective. For instance, Hemingway's short stories are known for their sparse yet powerful prose.

A great short story often has a strong and unique concept. For example, 'The Lottery' has this very unexpected concept of a lottery that's not what you'd initially think. It also needs engaging characters, even if they're briefly described. In 'The Gift of the Magi', the young couple is so relatable. And a good short story usually has a well - crafted plot that can be told in a short space without feeling rushed or incomplete.

A great short story often has a strong and unique concept. For example, in 'The Gift of the Magi', the idea of the couple sacrificing their most precious things in a selfless way is very touching. It also has well - developed characters, even in a short space. In 'A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings', the old man is a very mysterious and thought - provoking character.

A great short story often has a powerful and engaging plot. For example, it might have a big twist at the end like in 'The Lottery'. It also needs well - developed characters, even if it's just a short piece. In 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find', the characters are complex and interesting. And the theme should be thought - provoking, like the exploration of human nature in 'Young Goodman Brown'.

A great short story often has a strong and engaging plot. It grabs the reader's attention from the start and keeps them hooked until the end. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', Poe creates a tense and suspenseful plot with the narrator's descent into madness. Another factor is well - developed characters. Even in a short space, the characters need to be believable and interesting. In 'A Rose for Emily', Faulkner creates a complex character in Emily. Also, the use of themes that are relevant and thought - provoking, like the exploration of love and sacrifice in 'The Gift of the Magi', can make a short story one of the best.

A great ghost short story often has a really spooky atmosphere. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', the way Poe describes the narrator's paranoia and the old man's room at night creates a sense of dread. Also, strong characters are important. In 'The Monkey's Paw', the family's desperation and fear as they face the consequences of their wishes make the story engaging. And a good twist, like in 'The Turn of the Screw' where we're not sure if it's real ghosts or the governess's madness, can make a ghost short story one of the best.

Character development is key. In a story like 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find' by Flannery O'Connor, the characters are complex and multi - dimensional. The grandmother, for instance, is full of contradictions, which makes the story more interesting. Also, the use of modern themes like alienation, as seen in many Kafkaesque short stories, can contribute to a story being considered one of the best. These themes resonate with modern readers who may experience similar feelings in the fast - paced, often impersonal modern world.