Drama Newsletter July 26, 2006

Writers will happen in the best of families.
~Rita Mae Brown

Write what matters. If you don't care about what you're writing, neither will your readers.
~Judy Reeves

My most important piece of advice to all you would-be writers; when you write, try to leave out all the parts readers skip.
~Elmore Leonard


From the Editor:

In a Flash


Writing flash fiction can be rewarding. When you just don't seem to have a large enough idea for a regular short story (2,000-5,000 words), flash may be the solution.


Flash fiction has been defined as a story of 300-1,000 words, give or take according to the source. It is a short form of storytelling often centering on a single act. Flash also goes by the names skinny story, postcard fiction and micro tales.


Choose a character and a single event in that character's life. It can be anything and, of course, other characters may be present. You are basically writing a single scene from that person's world. Since your word count is limited, choose words carefully. Each sentence should be written for maximum information and impact. There is no room in flash for excess details. You must complete your story in a set amount of words so every bit of space counts! Compare it to decorating an apartment or a home with small rooms. Clutter only takes away from, not enhance the space, or in this case, your story.


The beauty, to me, of flash fiction is that down the road, one of my pieces may call to be turned into a full length short story, novella or even a novel. Try writing several flash pieces about the same character. These can be worked together to form a longer item or used as a character sketch. Quite useful!


Should you need a push out the door, into the world of flash fiction, there are several contests here to help you out. Try one, or more. You'll find yourself having fun before you know it!



~Nikola