What is Flash Fiction

Flash fiction is a complete story told in a thousand words or fewer. The constraint is the point. You are forced to be precise. What to say and what to leave out. Often, the real magic of flash fiction happens between the lines. The resonance of what the author chooses to leave unsaid.

Tips for Great Flash Fiction

  1. I

    Start in medias res (the middle of things). There's no time or need for preamble.

  2. II

    One image. One feeling. One turn. Focus on what hits you the hardest.

  3. III

    Make the last line sing. Surprise. Resonate. Devastate.

  4. IV

    Cut ruthlessly. Imagine each word is costing you money.

  5. V

    Specify. Don't generalise.

  6. VI

    Leave vital information unsaid. Let that emptiness breathe or fester.

  7. VII

    Read Sticks by George Saunders. Aspire to those same heights.

  8. VIII

    Ignore tips I to VI if doing so inspires, scares, or excites you.