Finding the model short story that appeals to everyone isn't easy. Every reader has different tastes in writing styles and genres. What I consider a model short story, might not appeal to that guy standing over there in the corner and vice versa. But over at The Literarian they've attempted to point readers in the direction of what a few writers consider the model short story. You can read them here.
One story that I like to use as a model for my own writing is "A Jury of Her Peers" by Susan Glaspell. It was written in 1917 so many find it hard reading, but I like the way it's laid out. You aren't told the straight up story of the murder that's taken place, you see it unfold through the eyes of the murderer's friends.
And while we're looking at model stories, feel free to add yours in the comments. It's always fun to share stories.
6 comments:
For several years we used this story as one of the prompts for the final essay in freshman English in my department. Long time ago.
That should have made for some great essays, Bill. There is so much in this story about life in that era and especially a woman's life. I find something new every time I read it.
There are countless ways to write a good short story. But if you want to make an impact, you could do far worse than emulate Saki. Check out "Sredni Vashtar".
Exactly, Manuel. There is no one model because each writer brings something different to the story telling. And Saki is now on my TBR list. Thanks!
A JURY OF HER PEERS is amazing.
Totally agree, Patti. You see that woman's whole life and yet you never meet her.
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