What is a Short Story?

A Short story must be complete by itself

It must be able to be read in one sitting.

This definition comes from Edgar Allen Poe’s essay “The Philosophy of Composition”.

What is a Short Story?

Because short stories are …well…short, every word must be used carefully for effect.

A short story has a good opening sentence that is developed throughout the work.

It has no more characters than those necessary for the action.

What must a short story include? The dramatic structure or plot1) Exposition2) Rising Action3) Climax4) Falling Action5) Resolution

What must a short story include?

The point of view – perspective from which the story is being told

Point of View1) First person2) Second person2 )Third person (limited or omniscient)

What must a short story include?

Writer’s intention or ThemeAn underdog story? Love conquers all? Tragic or hopeful? The characters – beginning with a

strong protagonist The setting- described in vivid detail

using sensory images

Why does a writer write a short story?

To Entertain or share a message To get the reader to ask questions. To take a position on an issue by

conveying an opinion, or persuade the reader

The writer wants you to feel…

Emotions, such as happiness sadness anger sympathy