Anythig that you can change in this world and why? Write a paragraph in about 200- 250 words
Answers
1) Make every word count. Instead of saying that nasty mean kid in high school, cut it down to teen bully.
2) Be clear. Even though you don’t have much space, you still have to get the story across. If your character is acting badly because of his past, we need to know what that past is but just a very brief version of it. Bitter divorce or smothering mother tells it all.
3) Cut out the fluff. Yes, it’s nice that the hotel room has a marble tub and gold faucet and thick plush carpeting. In a short story we don’t have the space for all that. Richly appointed.
4) Be visual. Instead of talking about the neighbor as Richard a little trick is to describe him. The vegetarian fireman or the husband stealing blonde next door. It will give the reader a better picture than just a name.
5) Focus on the core conflict. We don’t have time for subplots. Man robs bank; man runs from cops; man learns some kind of lesson.
6) Choose compelling verbs. Struggles is more evocative than decides. Wheezed gives a better picture than breathed.
7) Start off with a bang. Get right to the problem or inciting incident. Grab your reader right away. You don’t have the word length to talk about how he/she is dressed or the weather or have chit chat with the co-workers. First thing rob the bank, crash the car, or have the lovers walk away from each other.
8) Make us like your characters. While a strong opening to a short story is essential, the characters are the glue that hold it together. Remember to show not tell. He was very tall and handsome vs looks that made woman turn and stare.
9) Choose your point of view and tense and stick to it. Who is telling the story? The school teacher? Okay, tell it from her point of view and don’t change it.
10) Put your story in the proper order and have it make sense. It should read smoothly. “Mary bought some eggs. Her brother’s flight was late. Last week she got some bad news.“ Confused? Me too.