What Is Flash Fiction and Why Should You Try It?
The Power of Brevity
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What Is Flash Fiction and Why Should You Try It?
1. The Power of Brevity
I have been writing a lot for medium since i was introduced to it more than a couple of years ago. I have written several each week, I have written several each day, sometimes.
I have written mast everything I could about how different writers wrote different story-types, and how much they earned
Once, I discovered a new article. I ead it a few times, study it, and try to incorporate the new ideas into my own writing,. And still I have received no rewards, had nothing go viral. Not many views or reads, especially when compared to the good number of readers who follow me.
The time that I use to write these stories is pretty huge. Writing a standard short story usually takes me a week, and i'm writing microbooks too, and even microbooks take a good amount of time. But recently I have been looking at a story-type called flash fiction, and they can be a lot shorter. We've all seen the one with only six words. They can obviously be written in one sitting… wild!
2. What Is Flash Fiction?
Flash fiction is like any fiction, a story someone made up. There are novels and short stories.the usual word count of flash fiction is typically under 1,000 words, although some classifications can be even shorter.
The focus of the story is on a single moment, idea, or twist. It simply has the ability to pack an emotional punch or tell a complete story in a truncated format.
3. Why Flash Fiction Is Worth Exploring
The benefits for writers are many
Repeated practice always sharpens our storytelling skills.They encourage creativity within the constraints of the story form.
This type of writing offers quick satisfaction since we can write one entirely, start to finish, in one comparatively short period.
The benefits for readers are several, too.
They are easily read in a few minutes.
Some can be surprising, thought-provoking, or emotional.
4. How to Write Flash Fiction
Start in the middle of the action. There is no need or room for background information first. It’s best to concentrate on one idea or moment.
Use vivid imagery and concise, descriptive language.Don't waste any words. Cut out the ones that are not absolutely necessary. End with a twist or powerful resolution or life-changing discovery.
5. Use Prompts in the beginning to get started.
Practice with finding a lost object that leads to a strange discovery. Write about a missed connection in under 1000 words. What is in a letter you receive in the mail about fifty years after it was mailed. Prompts are available in dozens of places.
6. Where you can Publish or read Flash Fiction.
Most platforms that publish fiction will also publish flash fiction.
Medium is a great place for sharing your own flash fiction, and for reading others. Substack is one of my favorites for starting a regular flash fiction series. Reputable Magazines or Journals, like one of my favorites, Flash Fiction Online.
There are writing contests with cash prizes from time to time.
7. Try Flash Fiction for yourself soon, and let me know how you liked it!
Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or just starting, flash fiction is a playground for your imagination. Why not give it a try?
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