by Mjrinella

Created on: June 08, 2008   Last Updated: July 06, 2008

Creating a gripping and compelling story is hard enough. However, to create one with intense word limits proves challenging even for the most accomplished writer. However, when done adequately, it may prove more poetic and deep than thousands of more words could ever describe. That is the art of flash fiction; to create a moving story in (generally) 1,000 words or less.

Flash fiction itself is a take off of fictional writing, just as a haiku is a take off of poetry. Many of the same principles of fiction apply while writing flash stories. For example; it's still critical to develop the characters and the plot, although how you do so is often different from traditional fiction. In novels and such, characters are frequently developed directly. The narrator explains their physical, mental, social, and spiritual takes on life. However, when writing flash stories, it's almost always key to characterize indirectly. Through their actions and thoughts the readers learn who they are.

It seems easy enough, but once you try to balance out character development, plot development, as well as grip and compel the reader throughout your story, things become chaotic and tougher than it first appears. There are several keys to successfully writing flash stories, however the most prominent one would have to be planning.

Flash fiction definitely is not anything like free writing. You have to know exactly where your plot is headed if you want to succeed. The author generally has to write down a broad brainstorm of what is going to occur in the flash story, narrow it down, create a rough draft, and then a final.

While that may sound tedious, there is a certain pull that comes along with flash fiction. Modern day writers often love creative writing, but don't have the time to write their dream novel. Flash fiction gives them an opportunity to keep their love of creative writing alive, while not taking away too much time from their busy schedule. Likewise, those who want to write in short bursts, but not commit to writing a novel, will enjoy the opportunity that flash stories give them.

Plus, they often bring about something new to writing as a whole. People don't have even a word to spare that may lead their story into boredom. In fact, very often flash stories will be some of the most experimental and controversial stories out there. That's because the writer often has to try something new. They can't include everything they want, so they can only leave the best bits in for the reader to chew on.

For the same reasons flash stories appeal to writers, they also appeal to readers. Readers often lead busy lives, and some don't want to have to commit to a new novel when their schedule hits its peak. So, instead they can read flash stories. A well done flash story can be spine chilling and intriguing, and leave the reader with a satisfied feeling. Novels do that as well, but sometimes a few words will trump thousands every time. Some things are better expressed quickly rather than drawn out throughout pages. Plus, as mentioned before, they bring out the best (and sometimes the worst) in an author.

Writing flash stories is not easy. However, if done right, it is a quick and gratifying experience. If done well, readers will often be intrigued and flock to you for more. However, others simply can't handle writing flash fiction. Flash stories are elegant, but they can be a beast too. There's much more to them then it first appears. Don't be fooled by their simple appearance; there is something beautiful within flash stories.

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