The general consensus is that flash fiction (micro-fiction or short-short) is under 1000 words. While the actual word limit varies, not one source says it's more than 1000 words.
BASICS
- Flash Fiction has a beginning, a middle and an ending.
- You don't have time to build up your story or character development.
- The story starts close to the action. Surprise your reader.
- Make every word count.
STORY DEVELOPMENT
- Know what message you want the reader to take with them.
- Choose one pivotal moment of time in your character's life story.
- Keep the number of characters down to a bare minimum.
- Pick your words carefully. Since you don't have time for story development, this is essential.
- Emotions are a powerful tool for moving the plot forward.
- Edit... Take out every unnecessary word or sentence. If it does nothing to move the plot along take it out.
SIDE NOTE
Dialogue has a duo purpose:
- It introduces the characters personalities.
- It moves the story along at a rapid pace.
I have given you the basics for writing flash fiction, so it's your turn. Write a piece of flash fiction, keeping it as close to 250 words as you can. No more than 1000 words.
To come up with a prompt for this exercise, I picked up one of my unread books and read the first line. It has great possibilities...
PROMPT: A great time to figure things out.
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