What are the common themes in micro stories flash fiction?

Micro flash fiction often has its roots in the need for concise storytelling. Writers wanted to convey powerful ideas in very limited word counts. It may also have been influenced by the fast - paced modern life where people have less time to read long works. So, it emerged as a form to quickly engage readers with a complete story in just a few words.

Micro fiction is extremely short, often just a few sentences long. Flash fiction is a bit longer, usually up to a thousand words or so. Micro fiction might focus on a single moment or idea in a very concise way, while flash fiction can have a bit more development of plot and character.

The key distinction lies in the extent of story development. Micro fiction offers a snapshot or a quick punch, while flash fiction allows for a bit more depth and complexity. Another difference could be in the intended impact. Micro fiction might shock or surprise, and flash fiction might engage and involve the reader more deeply.

Time dilation at a microscopic scale can be a theme. In some micro science fiction, due to some strange physics at a very small level, time might pass differently for microscopic entities compared to the macroscopic world. Also, the idea of communication between different microscopic species or civilizations within a tiny space is quite common.

One common theme is isolation. Characters in these stories often feel alone, like in 'Hills Like White Elephants' where the couple seems to be in their own isolated world of unspoken issues. Another theme is despair. For example, in 'The Lottery', the townspeople's acceptance of a brutal practice shows a sense of despair. Also, loss is a theme, whether it's the loss of identity as in 'The Metamorphosis' or the loss of hope like in 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge'.

One common theme is fear. Since Halloween is associated with spooky things, stories often play on people's fears, like fear of the unknown in an abandoned house. Another theme is transformation, for example, a person turning into a werewolf or a vampire on Halloween night. Also, the theme of mystery is prevalent, such as a strange object found in a haunted attic that holds a dark secret.

One common theme is the moral lesson. Like in 'The Tortoise and the Hare', it's about not being overconfident. Another theme is survival, as seen in stories where animals face challenges in the wild. Also, cooperation can be a theme, such as when animals work together to achieve a goal, like in some stories about ants.

Common themes in earth flash fiction stories include the power of the earth. It could be depicted as a source of magic or a force that can either protect or destroy. Another theme is discovery. For instance, finding ancient civilizations or lost artifacts within the earth. There's also the theme of adaptation. Stories might show how humans or other creatures adapt to changes in the earth's conditions, whether it's a new climate or a change in the availability of resources. This theme often reflects on our own relationship with the earth and how we need to adapt to ensure our survival.

Isolation is a big one. Think about a character being all by themselves in a creepy forest or an abandoned building. It makes them more vulnerable and amps up the horror. The supernatural is also very common. You get things like witches, vampires or cursed objects in horror micro stories. And then there's the theme of paranoia. A character might start to doubt their own sanity as strange things keep happening around them.

One common theme is the exploration of unique ecosystems on micro planets. These could be places with strange flora and fauna that have adapted to the planet's small size and specific conditions.