Writing Flash Fiction

Flash fiction is a form of short story that packs a punch in a few hundred words or less. It's a challenging genre, but it can be a rewarding one. 

Flash fiction is exactly as it sounds, fiction that is over in a flash. These stories can be as short as just a few words and are usually no more than a few hundred words, I have a few of my own flash fiction works linked here if you'd like to check them out. 

Flash fiction contains an entire plot and usually a surprise or sudden twist as an ending. 

A Fall For Her-- Author Barbara King

It's Fine-- Author Barbara King

Flash fiction can be just as powerful and moving as full-length fiction and is a great tool to use as a warm-up to your writing day, or just to keep that writing part of your brain exercised. 

If you're ready to start crafting some flash fiction of your own here are some tips and strategies for crafting powerful flash fiction:

Start with an idea - Flash fiction is all about distilling a story down to its essence. Start with a strong concept or idea that can be conveyed in a few sentences or less.

Keep it focused - With such limited space, every word counts. Focus on a single moment, image, or idea and build your story around it.

Show, don't tell - This is true for any kind of writing, but it's especially important in flash fiction. Use vivid, sensory language to show your reader what's happening rather than telling them.

Use strong verbs - Verbs are the engine of your story. Choose action-packed verbs that convey a lot of meaning in a short amount of space.

Cut the clutter - In flash fiction, there's no room for extraneous details or backstory. Focus on what's happening in the present moment and keep your story lean and focused.

Embrace ambiguity - Because flash fiction is so brief, you don't have time to spell everything out for your reader. Leave some things unsaid and let your reader fill in the gaps.

Experiment with structure - Flash fiction can be a great place to experiment with structure. Try telling your story out of order, or using an unconventional narrative structure.

Use dialogue sparingly - Dialogue can be an effective way to convey character and plot in flash fiction, but use it sparingly. Every line of dialogue should serve a purpose and move the story forward.

Edit ruthlessly - Every word counts in flash fiction, so be prepared to edit ruthlessly. Cut any unnecessary words or phrases and make sure each sentence is serving a purpose.

End with a bang - In flash fiction, the ending is everything. Look for a surprising or unexpected twist that will leave your reader thinking about your story long after they've finished reading.

Flash fiction can be a challenging form to master, but with practice, it can also be incredibly rewarding. By focusing on a single moment, using strong language, and experimenting with structure, you can craft powerful stories that leave a lasting impact on your readers.

If you're having trouble getting started the best thing you can do it use a writing prompt and let your creative pen run wide with the outcome. 

Best of luck and get to writing! 

With love, 

B.K. xo xo

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