This week: Expectation or Tradition Edited by: Dawn Embers  
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Short Stories Newsletter by Dawn
A brief discussion on the difference and similarities between traditions compared to expectations. Stories have their own expectations and at times characters may need to do something out of tradition. What will you write? |
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The middle of February is known for a particular holiday and when I think of it, one of the things that comes to mind is the concept of expectations. Valentine's is a prime example because in many ways elements that are expected come as part of the tradition. The long stemmed roses, boxes of chocolates or even the little cards with a tiny bit of candy/shaped eraser traded in classes are all part of the tradition for Valentine's Day. However, they also can become an expectation that either has to be met or missed.
The red and pink holiday is just one example. When it comes to stories, there are a few particular ways we can consider the difference and similarity between tradition and expectations.
Reader expectations are often found when it comes to different genres. Romance readers have specific expectations for not only the content of the stories (the focus has to be about the romance/relationship between the characters) but many also require such elements like happy endings or enjoy a particular format. When reading horror, there is the expectation that an attempt is made to scare the reader in some form, whether successful or not varies on the individual. Middle grade and young adult stories tend to follow a main character that is in the same age range as the category lists (with some exceptions). On one hand, these are often things a reader might expect. However, one could view some of the aspects as a sort of tradition in publishing.
Method of publication can also be brought under the terms of tradition when it comes to terminology often used. Going through a standard publisher, for both short and long fiction, has been coined as traditional publishing. It is viewed as the tradition to go through the submission process and get someone else to handle the publish part. Self-publication more popular now compared to many years ago and for some it makes the best sense, even if it's not based on what one could call tradition. And some genres could be expected as possible to self-publish even.
Then there are aspects of characters within the story. One thing you can use expectation or tradition for when creating a story is to consider the motivation for an action. Even in short or flash fiction, it helps to know the reason behind decisions or actions a character makes. It is possible for the character to do something because it's part of the tradition. A different character could refuse to do something just because it is expected, to go against the system. We have some options in how to use this in writing.
Consider what is a tradition for you and what are some things you do out of obligation. If you are going to do a little character development, you could ask the same questions of the character. Then consider how to use that in order to make things in the story move. Make something happen. And write. You can write out of expectation or make a tradition of it.
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Does your character do something because it is expected or out of tradition?
Last time, as the editor for the Short Stories Newsletter, I discussed writer's residency or retreats. Here are some comments sent in for the topic including a link with personal experience:
Comment by brom21  
Writing space is easy to sustain for me as my living expenses are fully provided. In that regard, the only hindrance to writing is my own personal distractions and laziness. lol. There was a legitimate period of time I took off writing to look for a writing job via Indeed. I will use this info to help me in the future when I do accommodate my own living. Thanks for the NL!
Comment by QPdoll 
I would love to do a residency or retreat. However, money is a factor. I also don't have a project I'm working on presently. But, I bet I could think of something to write given a beautiful atmosphere.
Comment by s
Writing retreats can be fun. Here was my experience:
"Note: Writing Retreat!
I just got back from a Writi..."
(Hope that comes through)
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Short Stories: February 15, 2023 Issue [#11814]
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