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The Art of Microfiction
- Jennifer Peaslee
- Aug 5
- 2 min read
Readers of this newsletter/blog know that I post weekly microfictions on Mondays. If you've ever wanted to write your own teeny tiny stories but aren't sure where to start, here are some suggestions:
Focus on packing an emotional punch.
Instead of asking yourself, "What plot do I want to write?" it's handy to ask, "What emotion do I want to deliver?"
Choose your words carefully.
Case in point: I originally wrote "Choose your words with intention," but why use two words when one will do? This is microfiction; you don't have the space to waste.
If you can think of a twist, use it.
Readers love twists. Sometimes it's easier to think of twists for smaller bites of fiction.
Keep things simple.
This means: one or two named characters. You want readers to care about your characters, and that's difficult to do on a short word count. Don't make it harder on the reader by piling characters onto them.
Use strong verbs and nouns.
Do not say "house" when you can say "bungalow." Don't say something smells bad; say it reeks. Always, always, always be on the lookout for the more interesting word.
Use the active voice.
Sometimes I think it's the default to write in passive voice, because it certainly is something writers do frequently.
Anyway, don't do it. "I sprinted" is better and shorter than "I was sprinting."
Now, go give it a try! Let me know if you write something.
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