How to Write a Short Story (with NO experience!)

Summary

In 'WritersLife Wednesdays', Abbie debunks common myths about short story writing, encouraging writers to focus on what matters. She challenges the notion that one must read short stories or write them before attempting a novel, arguing that all writing is practice and one's best work evolves with time. Abbie emphasizes the importance of plot, character transformation, and theme in short stories, suggesting that stories should resonate with the author and the reader. She advises writers to embrace their unique storytelling style, regardless of traditional frameworks.

Takeaways

• 📚 Writing short stories doesn't require extensive reading of others' work; it's more about your unique creative process.
• 🚫 Debunking the myth that you must write short stories before attempting a novel; you can start with a novel if that's your inclination.
• 🎨 Practice is crucial in writing, and short stories offer a low-pressure environment to hone your craft.
• 🌟 Fan fiction is suggested as an excellent medium for non-serious, fun practice that doesn't need to meet publishing standards.
• 💡 Viewing all writing as practice can help silence the inner critic and enjoy the writing process without fear of judgment.
• 📈 Recognize that your writing will improve over time, but also acknowledge that your current work is your best at this stage.
• ❌ Reject the idea that short story ideas must be small or simple; complex narratives can be crafted effectively in a short format.
• 🧩 Understand that the true essence of a story lies in character transformation, not just the events that occur.
• 🌈 When considering your story's format, ask if it's about a journey or a single significant event to determine if it's suited for a short story or a novel.
• 🔍 Focus on the internal conflict of your characters to reveal their misbeliefs, which are often the antithesis of your story's theme.
• 💭 Embrace non-linear narration in short stories, allowing for more abstract and complex thought processes that may not follow traditional plot structures.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of 'WritersLife Wednesdays'?

The main purpose of 'WritersLife Wednesdays' is to help writers make their stories matter and make their author dreams come true.

What is a common myth about writing short stories that the speaker debunks?

A common myth debunked is that writers must read short stories before writing their own, which the speaker states is not true for all writers.

Why does the speaker argue against the idea that one must write short stories before attempting a novel?

The speaker argues against this idea because it's not a requirement to write short stories to be qualified to write a novel, and it can be a toxic way to view writing progress.

What does the speaker suggest as an alternative to writing short stories for practice?

The speaker suggests that fan fiction can be a great medium for non-serious practice writing as it doesn't have to worry about being good enough to publish.

What quote by Seth Godin does the speaker mention, and how does it relate to writing practice?

The quote by Seth Godin is, 'The practice is not the means to the output, the practice is the output, because the practice is all we can control.' It relates to writing practice by emphasizing that the act of writing, not just the end product, is what writers can control and improve.

What is the speaker's stance on the necessity of a theme in a short story?

The speaker believes that a short story should have a theme or truth to it, arguing that stories should mean something to the reader and not just be plot-driven.

How does the speaker suggest determining whether an idea is better suited for a short story or a novel?

The speaker suggests asking questions like 'How long or extensive do I want to make this character's journey?' and 'Does the idea span an entire journey or just a single significant event?' to determine if an idea is better for a short story or a novel.

What is the role of internal conflict in a short story according to the speaker?

Internal conflict is the secret ingredient to capturing the reader's attention, as it helps the reader understand why the story matters to the characters.

Why does the speaker discourage the belief that a short story must be complex and grand to be a novel?

The speaker discourages this belief because some of the best novels and films are small scale stories, and it's the character's transformation, not the complexity of the plot, that makes a story.

What advice does the speaker give for writers who feel they need to write short stories before writing a novel?

The speaker advises writers to disregard this myth and write the novel if they feel they have a bigger, more complex story in their head, encouraging them not to hesitate or second guess themselves.