How can we identify the traits of a good story?

Look for a society that seems broken or wrong in fundamental ways. If there's a sense of constant surveillance, that's a sign. For instance, cameras everywhere in the story. Also, if people seem to be living in fear of the authorities, it's likely a dystopian trait.

To identify the traits of a mystery novel, pay attention to the pacing. Mystery novels often have a build - up of tension. The story may start slow to introduce the characters and the setting, but as the mystery unfolds, the pace quickens. Also, the presence of a conflict that is not easily resolved is a trait. And if there are elements of deception, like a character lying about their whereabouts, it's likely a mystery novel.

To identify the traits of fiction in a literary work, first consider the narrative structure. Fiction often has a clear beginning, middle, and end with a build - up of events. Then, look at the language. Fictional works may use more descriptive and imaginative language. Another way is to examine the purpose. If it's mainly to entertain or convey a non - factual idea, it likely has the traits of fiction. For example, a story about a talking animal is clearly fictional as it goes against the natural order in reality.

Another way is to look at their motives. If their motives are pure and not self - serving, they are good. In 'The Little Prince', the fox has pure motives when he befriends the Little Prince. He wants to teach the prince about love and friendship, not gain anything material from it.

Pay attention to the way the story resolves. In many fables, the end shows clearly what the moral is. For example, in 'The Boy Who Cried Wolf', when the boy is not believed in the end because he has lied so many times. This shows the moral of not lying. Also, think about the overall message the author seems to be sending through the characters' experiences.

Look for the actions and decisions of the main characters. If they consistently choose to do the right thing, like helping others or standing up for what is just, those actions often point to the morals of the story.

One way is by looking at the pacing. A good story has a proper rhythm. If it moves too fast, we might miss important details; if too slow, it gets boring. A story like 'The Great Gatsby' has a well - paced narrative.

Look at the actions of the main characters. If they are doing good things like helping the poor or standing up for the weak, that's a sign of good morals. Also, the ending of the story matters. If good is rewarded and bad is punished, it usually has good morals.

In different cultures, we can look for common reactions. For example, if a story or an object makes people from different cultures feel a similar strong emotion, that could be a sign of a common trait. Also, symbols play a role. If a certain symbol represents beauty in one culture and also has a significant meaning in the best stories of another culture, it might indicate a common trait.

Look for real - life situations. If the story is about things like going to work, dealing with family, or facing everyday challenges, it's likely realistic fiction.