What are the characteristics of a good short story?

A good short story should have a clear and engaging plot that grabs the reader's attention from the start.

One characteristic is a strong theme. Take 'The Yellow Wallpaper' as an example. The theme of a woman's oppression and her descent into madness due to the restrictions placed on her by society is very powerful. Also, good short stories use vivid language. They can create a whole world in just a few pages, like the way 'The Dead' by James Joyce describes a party and the complex emotions of the characters.

A good short story often has a clear and engaging plot. It can draw the reader in quickly and keep their attention throughout. For example, 'The Gift of the Magi' by O. Henry has a simple yet powerful plot where a couple sacrifices their most precious possessions for each other, creating a touching and memorable story.

Themes of love and friendship are common in good short bedtime stories. Take 'The Giving Tree' as an example. The selfless love of the tree for the boy is a theme that can warm the heart. And it usually has a positive ending. This gives a sense of comfort and security to the listener, making it easier for them to fall asleep peacefully. Moreover, the length should be short enough not to drag on, so that the listener doesn't lose interest before falling asleep.

One characteristic is a strong theme. It could be about love, friendship, or the struggle for survival. A good short story also has a concise and effective writing style. It doesn't waste words and gets to the point quickly. The setting should be described in a way that adds to the mood of the story. In 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, the small - town setting creates a sense of unease. Moreover, a good short story often has some sort of twist or surprise at the end to make the reader think.

A good short story book usually has engaging plots, well-developed characters, and a clear theme. It keeps you hooked from start to finish.

For a short story book to be good, it needs to have a unique and interesting theme. Also, the language should be vivid and the ending often leaves a lasting impression. The stories should be diverse, covering different emotions and situations.

A good woman short story often has a well - developed female character. Her personality, desires, and struggles should be clearly depicted. For example, in 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the main character's descent into madness is a key part of the story. Also, the plot should be engaging. It might involve a conflict that is specific to the woman's situation, like in 'A Rose for Emily' where Emily's relationship with the town and her own past is a complex web of conflict.

A good thriller short story often has a fast - paced plot. It grabs the reader's attention right from the start and keeps them on the edge of their seat. For example, it might start with a mysterious event or a sudden danger.