What are the characteristics of the best nonlinear short stories?

Well, in nonlinear short stories, the plot doesn't follow a traditional linear path. It can start in the middle of the action, or end at an unexpected point. For example, it could begin with the climax and then go back to show how the events led up to it. This allows for more creative exploration of themes and characters. Also, the use of flashbacks and flash - forwards is common, which helps to add depth and complexity to the story.

Kurt Vonnegut's 'Slaughterhouse - Five' also contains nonlinear elements. The main character, Billy Pilgrim, becomes 'unstuck in time' and experiences different moments of his life out of order. This includes his time as a prisoner of war during World War II, his normal life back home, and his abduction by aliens. The nonlinear structure helps to emphasize the chaos and absurdity of war and life in general.

One of the best books with a nonlinear story is 'Slaughterhouse - Five' by Kurt Vonnegut. It jumps around in time, from Billy Pilgrim's experiences in World War II to his later life and even his abductions by aliens. The non - linear structure helps to convey the chaos and absurdity of war and life in general.

One of the best nonlinear stories is 'Pulp Fiction'. It jumps around in time, which keeps the audience on their toes. The different storylines, like Vincent and Jules' adventure, and Butch's boxing story, all come together in unexpected ways.

One of the great nonlinear short stories is 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge' by Ambrose Bierce. It plays with time in a very interesting way, making the reader think the main character escapes only to reveal it's a hallucination in his final moments.

Some excellent nonlinear novels include 'Infinite Jest' by David Foster Wallace. It has a complex structure with numerous footnotes and interwoven plotlines that explore themes like addiction, entertainment, and the human condition. 'Mrs. Dalloway' by Virginia Woolf is also a notable nonlinear work. It follows a day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway through her memories and the lives of those around her. And then there's 'Gravity's Rainbow' by Thomas Pynchon. It's a dense and nonlinear exploration of post - World War II society and technology.

The best short short stories usually have a tight plot. Take 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge' for instance. The events are carefully crafted to build suspense and surprise. They also tend to have well - drawn characters despite their brevity. In 'Hills Like White Elephants', the two main characters' personalities and relationship are subtly revealed through their dialogue. Moreover, they can often make a big impact with just a few words, like 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' which leaves you pondering long after reading.

A good option is also 'The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas' by Ursula K. Le Guin. The story presents a complex situation in the city of Omelas, and as the reader delves deeper, they realize that there are different layers and aspects that are not presented in a simple chronological order. It makes you question your own values and the nature of society, all while using a structure that is not strictly linear.

They probably have engaging plots. Since they are short stories, they need to grab the reader's attention quickly. So, there could be unexpected twists and turns, like in a mystery - themed story where the solution is not what you initially expect. In addition, the use of vivid language is common. With limited space, the authors need to create a vivid world. They might use unique descriptions of settings and characters to make them come alive in the reader's mind. This helps to make the short story memorable despite its brevity.

The short stories in 'best 2019 short stories' may also be known for their ability to evoke strong emotions in a limited number of words. They can make you feel joy, sadness, or surprise in just a few pages. Take a story about a child's first encounter with loss. It can be so poignant that it stays with you long after you've finished reading, even though it's a short piece.