What are some good topics for a 500 word flash fiction story?

How about a moment of self-discovery? Maybe a character realizes a hidden talent or passion during an unexpected event. It can make for an interesting and engaging flash fiction.

One good topic could be a post - apocalyptic world. You can explore how survivors adapt, form new communities, and deal with the scarcity of resources. Another topic is a family mystery. Maybe there's a long - lost relative or a secret that has been hidden for generations within a family. A third option is a time - travel adventure. The protagonist could travel to different historical periods and interact with famous figures while also facing the consequences of changing the past.

One example: 'She found the old letter. Memories flooded. But it was time to let go. She burned it, watched ashes dance in the wind.'

When writing '100 word flash fiction', it's crucial to be economical with words. Outline your basic story elements - character, conflict, resolution - before you start. Use strong verbs and nouns to convey more in less space. Avoid long descriptions. Try to create an emotional connection quickly. Maybe start with a question or a strong statement to draw the reader in. And always revise to cut out any unnecessary words until you reach the 100 - word limit.

A 100 - word flash fiction story could be 'The Meeting'. Two old friends who had a falling out years ago accidentally meet at a coffee shop. At first, there's an awkward silence. But then, they start to talk about old times. Slowly, the bitterness fades away, and by the end of their short encounter, they've rekindled their friendship. Another might be 'The Mysterious Note'. A man finds a note in his pocket with a strange address. He goes there and discovers a long - lost family heirloom.

Love and loss are common. In just 300 words, one can show a brief encounter that leads to love and then its sudden end. Another theme is self - discovery. A character might have a small moment of realization within the short story. Also, survival in a difficult situation can be a theme. For example, a person trapped in a small space for a short time and how they cope.

To write a 500 - word flash fiction story, focus on a single theme. Let's say the theme is 'loneliness'. Start by introducing a lonely character, perhaps an old man sitting on a bench in a park every day. Then, show how his loneliness affects his daily life. He watches people pass by but has no one to talk to. Add some details about his surroundings to set the mood, like the cold, empty park in winter. As the story progresses, introduce a small event that might change his perspective, like a stray dog coming up to him. In the end, you can show a glimmer of hope or change in his situation, even if it's just a small one. This way, you can tell a complete and engaging story within the 500 - word limit.

Keep it simple. Focus on one main idea or event. For example, if it's about a lost love, show just the moment of realization. Use vivid but concise language. Instead of saying 'a very beautiful flower', say 'a stunning rose'. Also, create a quick emotional impact. Maybe end with a twist like in 'She thought she won the lottery, but it was a prank call'.

First, have a clear concept. Decide on a single, strong idea quickly. For example, it could be a unique emotion like sudden regret. Second, create vivid characters with just a few strokes. Maybe describe a character's nervous habit, like constantly tapping a finger. Third, make every word count. Cut out unnecessary adjectives and adverbs. Don't say 'the big, red, shiny apple' but 'the shiny apple' if the color and size don't matter to the story.

How about a story set in a post-apocalyptic world? Imagine survivors struggling to rebuild and dealing with all the dangers and mysteries that come with it.