During a discussion with other writers, I was asked if I’d give a few suggestions to a new writer who wanted to write a short story? I offered my advice as follows which others agreed with:
- 2 Ask, whose story are you telling?
- 3 keep the story to only 2 or at most 3 characters
- 4 A story must include the 3 C’s: Character, Conflict/Crisis, and Conclusion
- 5 While writing the story, ask what if? An important question, as it opens up all sorts of possibilities
- 6 Use the senses in your story, not necessarily all of them but definitely some.
- 7 Use names that are not similar. Mary and Marion, Joe and John, this can confuse a reader. Especially important when writing a novel, the reader does not want to keep checking who is who again and again.
Above are a few suggestions of what I shared. If you are paying close attention while reading this, you will have noticed I omitted number 1 on the list. my number 1 is, to spend time thinking about your story.
This is important not just before you write but during the writing process too. While out walking, think about it. Doing housework, think about it. Traveling, think about it. You get the idea! When you do sit to the task of penning your story, novel, or poem, the creative process will run smoother. You are already familiar with your characters/plot and so words will flow easier and the process is less overwhelming.
It really cannot be dismissed, thinking I mean. Time spent in thought about your project is time well spent. So do not beat yourself up if you are not quite turning up at the page every day, once you are using your time in thinking about it, then you are writing. it is all part of the process, a part that will help you I promise.
This is a short post but I hope you find it a helpful and positive one. Happy writing.
Mary T Bradford 