Last Updated on April 15, 2023 by Nathaniel Tower
Flash fiction.
It’s here, and then it’s gone in a flash. Like a bolt of lightning. Or that superhero named the Flash.
If you’re a short story writer or a fan of short fiction, you have probably heard of flash fiction. It’s kind of like the Usain Bolt of the writing world. But defining flash fiction in a concise way can be hard to pin down, which is a little ironic given the brevity of the genre.
If you’re unsure about the difference between flash fiction and a short story, don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Think of it this way: short stories are like a hearty meal, with plenty of ingredients and enough time to savor each bite. Flash fiction, on the other hand, is like a shot of espresso – quick, intense, and packed with flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between flash fiction and short stories. We’ll also give you tips on how to write flash fiction that’ll leave your readers wanting more. So, whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, grab a pen and let’s dive into the world of flash fiction!
What is Flash Fiction?
Let’s keep this simple (at least for now). Flash fiction is a type of very short story that typically has a word count of 1000 words or less (although some publishers insist it should be even shorter). So it’s short, but it’s not quite as short as micro fiction, which is typically defined as under 250 words. The sweet spot for flash fiction is usually between 500 and 750 words.
Word count isn’t the only way to define flash fiction. It’s an economical form of storytelling that typically focuses on a single moment, idea, or character, often with a twist or surprise ending. Flash fiction is designed to be read quickly and easily, making it an ideal form of entertainment for busy readers.
Unfortunately, it isn’t always an ideal genre for busy writers. For many writers, flash fiction is far more difficult than a traditional short story because it’s really hard to say everything you want in so few words. Even though it’s short, you still need some semblance of a character, setting, and plot or conflict. That’s quite a lot of action to pack into such a small piece of writing.
For many writers, it’s easier to write a more traditional short story instead.
What is a Short Story?
Let’s state the obvious: a short story is a story that’s short (but not as short as flash fiction, which is also a story). Got it yet?
Okay, let’s unpack that a little more. We have plenty of time here. After all, I’m not writing a flash piece about flash fiction here.
A short story is a work of fiction that is typically between 1500 and 7000 words in length. Unlike flash fiction, short stories usually have a more complex plot, several characters, and a more developed setting. The goal of a short story is often to explore a theme or to capture a snapshot of life. Short stories can be any genre, including science fiction, romance, horror, or fantasy, and they often aim to entertain, educate, or challenge the reader.
That doesn’t mean flash fiction can’t do those things. It just has to do it in a lot fewer words, and that usually means something has to give. If you have a great short story idea, it’s possible to turn it into a piece of flash fiction instead – if you have a lot of patience for editing.
Let’s explore some of the key elements of flash fiction to better understand what it is and how it’s different from a short story.
Structure
The structure of flash fiction and short stories can vary greatly. Flash fiction often follows a simple, straightforward structure with a clear beginning, middle, and end, but it can also be experimental and unconventional in its approach. On the other hand, short stories tend to have a more complex structure, with multiple characters, subplots, and a more developed setting. This allows short stories to explore multiple themes and to create a more immersive experience for the reader.
Style
In terms of style, flash fiction is often more straightforward and to-the-point, focusing on a single moment or idea. It tends to be written in a more straightforward, accessible style, often using simple language and avoiding complex, multi-layered plots. Short stories, on the other hand, often use a more sophisticated style, exploring complex themes and character arcs, and employing more advanced writing techniques such as foreshadowing, symbolism, and metaphor.
Tips for Writing Flash Fiction
Here are some tips to help you write effective flash fiction:
- Keep it concise – Flash fiction is all about brevity, so make every word count.
- Focus on a single moment or idea – Choose a moment or idea that you want to explore and build your story around it.
- Experiment with structure – Don’t be afraid to try unconventional structures in your flash fiction.
- Use vivid, concise language – Choose your words carefully and use vivid, concise language to bring your story to life.
- End with a twist – Flash fiction often ends with a twist or surprise, so consider how you can create a memorable ending that will stick with your reader.
Tips for Writing Short Stories
- Start with a clear idea – Before you begin writing, have a clear idea of what you want to say and what you want your story to achieve.
- Develop your characters – Create well-rounded characters with their own motivations, goals, and personalities.
- Build a compelling plot – Make sure your story has a clear beginning, middle, and end, and that each scene moves the plot forward.
- Pay attention to setting – Consider how the setting can impact your characters and your story as a whole.
- Use literary techniques – Experiment with literary techniques such as foreshadowing, symbolism, and metaphor to add depth and meaning to your story.
Examples of Flash Fiction
Here are a few examples of great flash fiction and the authors who wrote them:
- “The Thousandth Man” by Rebecca Lloyd – This flash fiction piece is a poignant and imaginative story about a man who can bring objects back to life with a touch.
- “The Man Who Could See the Future” by Nancy Stohlman – This flash fiction piece explores the consequences of a man’s ability to see the future and the impact it has on his life.
- “The Last Laugh” by Stuart Dybek – This humorous and insightful piece of flash fiction uses a barroom joke as a way to explore the relationship between fathers and sons.
- “The Last Unicorn” by Aimee Bender – This haunting and beautiful flash fiction piece is a retelling of the classic fairy tale and is full of imagination and wonder.
Can You Publish Flash Fiction?
Flash fiction is challenging to write, but it doesn’t have to be a major challenge to get that writing published. In fact, acceptance rates for flash fiction are often higher than short stories.
There are a lot of literary magazines, especially online publications, that focus exclusively on flash fiction. You can use a resource like Duotrope to find some great venues to publish those really short stories of yours.
There are even plenty of venues out there that will pay for your flash fiction pieces. Check out this article to learn more about how to make money off your short fiction.
Final Thoughts on Flash Fiction vs Short Stories
Flash fiction and short stories are both popular forms of storytelling that offer unique challenges and opportunities for writers. While flash fiction is brief and focuses on a single moment or idea, short stories offer more room for character development, plot complexity, and exploration of themes. Both forms require a mastery of language and a strong sense of economy in writing, but they also allow writers to experiment with different structures and styles. Whether you’re writing flash fiction or short stories, the key is to focus on telling a compelling story that captivates your reader from start to finish.
What are your thought on flash fiction? Do you prefer to write or read flash fiction or more traditional short stories? Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to share this post on all your favorite channels.
