How about a short story? Where does it start and where does it end? The answers to those questions are probably just as varied as the number of people you ask them of.
I make that statement after having read, listened to, and written many short stories. To admit here to you, that after all of that, these questions still hunt me down and haunt my dreams, is a little uncomfortable.
The good thing is, that I don't think that you have to have it just one way. Short stories can have little to no backstory, with just enough ambiance to imply a setting and be great. Contrasting that is the short that gives breathtaking description of time and place as well as some back story to the characters while still being somewhat brief about it. It works like that too! The possibilities really are endless.
Within the past two days, I've seen examples of both and have been more than pleased with each.
It makes me think though. What is my style? I've just cut a chunk off of the front of the story that I'm currently working, feeling that it was not necessary. To me, that's the key. To feel your story and flow with it. Cut when it needs to be cut and add to it when it needs a little something more.
Every story is different. Some stories need more words than others and that's okay. You have to decide what's best for you as a writer, but ultimately, what's best for the story. Don't give the reader stuff they don't need and they won't get bored with it. At least that's what I'm trying to do.
I love a good short story that sets the imagination on fire, and hope to post some here soon. Good luck out there! Here's to hoping you read and write something great today!
No comments:
Post a Comment