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Step 1
The first line of flash fiction has to be an attention getter. I recently wrote a flash fiction piece that began with the following statement: "That has to be the ugliest coffin I've ever seen." An unusual start that peaks the reader's interest.
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Step 2
The beginning of flash fiction has to jump into the conflict. Because you are limited to word count, you can't spend time describing the setting or creating a mood with descriptive words. Jump in with your main character and the situation. But remember, there must be an ending and your character must change or what's the point?
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Step 3
Stick with 1-2 characters in a flash fiction piece. You haven't time to develop anymore than that. Choose a moment in the character's life. This is a snapshot of a time. I did a story about checking out at Walmart.
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Step 4
Show, don't tell. Edit for unnecessary words. Your words are VERY important so skip the VERY! Write in active voice. Most of all, have fun! And...pick a great title for a great flash fiction story.
Comments
vikki9 said
on 8/25/2008 This sounds like fun! Thank you for the tips. 5*
Limowreck said
on 6/18/2008 This sounds like a fantastic writing exercise! Thanks! I'll try this!