How to Write Short Stories

I have been asked how I write my stories. Here are some ideas that have worked for me.

What makes you nervous? Is it a situation—such as speaking in public… or when you see something you weren’t supposed to? Is it a place—like the doctor’s office or a taxi? Do certain types of people make you nervous—such as someone with eccentric ideas? Take a walk and think about this.

Start with just three named characters. One should be your main character. Tell the story in a close third person with some access to his or her thoughts. The reader won’t hear anyone else’s thoughts directly. You can add up to two more named characters later. Keep anyone else nameless.

Write about something you care about… or something that intrigues you. It could be anything from bike riding, to how bees make honey. Your character needs to have a goal, a need, a passion.

Other characters have their own goals, needs and passions. Some are the same as those of your main character, some are opposite. Perhaps, it’s not your main character who has the more powerful passion. Remember, every character is different and no one is perfect. Flawed characters are more fascinating.

Write your story a little at a time. Think of it in scenes, like a movie director. Don’t fuss too much. Evaluate your first draft. Does the beginning fit? Does it hook the reader? Soon enough, there should be a situation for the main character that must be addressed.

Striving to be original or creative is important but don’t worry about it too much in your first draft. Instead, try to be genuine and fearless in your quest to get to the underlying issues at hand. Like a volcano, things are always brewing beneath the surface!

I hope this helps. Your comments are welcome.