Elements of a Short Story

Introduction Early in the story, the author introduces the setting (where and when the story takes place), and the main characters.

Characters The characters are usually revealed through their dialogue and descriptions by the author. Some characters are round (we know much about them) and some are flat (we only know a small part of their character).

Plot This is what the story is about. It consists of a number of crises leading up to a climax.

Conflict There is always at least one conflict in a short story. The conflicts can involve a) person against person, b) person against nature, c) person against society, d) person against his own conscience, or e) person against the supernatural.

Climax This is the highest point in the story or plot in which the fortunes of the main characters take a turn for the better or the worse.

Resolution This is the final part of the story after the climax. It usually serves to clear up any loose ends.

Atmosphere This is the mood of the story. Examples are suspense, joy, oppressive, sad, and inspiring. Sometimes the mood shifts, but in a short story, it is usually the same throughout.

Theme This is the “main idea” behind the story, or the moral. It is usually the author’s purpose for writing the story.

Point of View This may be 1st person or 3rd person. It indicates whose opinion is dominant in the telling of the story. It could be the author or one of the characters.

Length There is no definite length, but the short story is short, swift and compressed. Every word and sentence is meaningful.