characteristics of a good short story

A good short story often has a clear and engaging plot. It can draw the reader in quickly and keep their attention throughout. For example, 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry has a simple yet powerful plot where a couple sacrifices their most precious possessions for each other, creating a touching and memorable story.

One characteristic is a strong theme. Take 'The Yellow Wallpaper' as an example. The theme of a woman's oppression and her descent into madness due to the restrictions placed on her by society is very powerful. Also, good short stories use vivid language. They can create a whole world in just a few pages, like the way 'The Dead' by James Joyce describes a party and the complex emotions of the characters.

It often has strong character development even in a short span. In 'A Rose for Emily', Emily Grierson is a complex character. Through the details in the story, we can see how she has been affected by her family's past, her isolation, and her own unrequited love, all of which are presented subtly but effectively.

Well, strong characters are also a key characteristic. The characters should be believable and relatable. In short stories like 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find' by Flannery O'Connor, the complex and vivid characters drive the story forward and make the readers think about human nature. Additionally, good short stories usually have a distinct theme. It could be about love, loss, or the human condition. The theme gives the story depth and makes it more than just a sequence of events.

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

Themes of love and friendship are common in good short bedtime stories. Take 'The Giving Tree' as an example. The selfless love of the tree for the boy is a theme that can warm the heart. And it usually has a positive ending. This gives a sense of comfort and security to the listener, making it easier for them to fall asleep peacefully. Moreover, the length should be short enough not to drag on, so that the listener doesn't lose interest before falling asleep.

One characteristic is a strong theme. It could be about love, friendship, or the struggle for survival. A good short story also has a concise and effective writing style. It doesn't waste words and gets to the point quickly. The setting should be described in a way that adds to the mood of the story. In 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, the small - town setting creates a sense of unease. Moreover, a good short story often has some sort of twist or surprise at the end to make the reader think.

Good short story thrillers often have a fast - paced plot. Take 'The Monkey's Paw' for instance. The wishes are made quickly and the consequences unfold rapidly. A sense of mystery is also crucial. In 'The Cask of Amontillado', the reason for the narrator's revenge is somewhat mysterious at first. And they usually create an atmosphere of tension. Like in 'An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge', the situation of the man about to be hanged creates immediate tension.

Good bedtime short stories are often simple. They don't have overly complex plots that would keep a child's mind racing. For example, stories with a clear beginning, middle and end like 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears' are great. Also, they usually have positive themes, such as friendship in 'The Fox and the Stork' from Aesop's Fables.

Feel - good short stories also tend to have themes that promote positive values. Themes like love, friendship, hope, and forgiveness are common. Take 'A Christmas Carol' as an example. Scrooge transforms from a miserly and bitter man to a generous and kind one, spreading love and joy. This theme of redemption and the power of kindness makes it a feel - good story that has been beloved for generations.