THE STORY-TELLERS' BRIEF

In this "brief" the aspiring author is given the primary rules for constructing a short story. Each rule is naked, but the thoughtful writer will find it comparatively easy to elaborate for himself. The "brief" is accurate, to the point, and of vast value as a reference.

Introduction

In the first paragraph there should come closely associated thoughts; there should be no breaks in the attention; everything should be done at this point to awaken interest and to hold the attention. Interest is aroused by:

(a)  Startling act or happening.

(b)  Appeal to some scene or thought in every man's life.

(c)   Interesting conversation or act hinting at something to come.

(d)   Characters doing or saying something that is explained later.

Development

  • Atmosphere is introduced by characters in the action.
  • Draw characters by dropping in traits as the action goes on.
  • Words and phrases of speech give local color.
  • Don't let the characters tell all they know.
  • Contrast characters and passions.
  • Show characters' thoughts by outward actions,               
  • The motive for the act upon which the story hangs should be very strong.
  • Keep the reader guessing as to the outcome.
  • Indefinite information arouses the reader's curiosity.
  • Withhold something which the reader desires to know.
  • Do not suggest that you know the end.
  • Let the incidents grow in power and weight.
  • Bring out all sources of weight in the situations.
  • Give each incident its proper proportion.
  • Allow your details to make their own appeal.
  • Let every speech and act further a complication.
  • Make the reader's course one of change.
  • In referring to a coming event do it by suggestion.
  • Use the time element for suspense by analysis of its passage.
  • Do not be too eager to reach the climax.
  • Just before the climax have an alternate prospect, contrast, possibility of a different ending, or doubt of some kind.

Climax

  • Give the climax the proper place. 
  • Prepare well for it.
  • Make it of sufficient importance to mark highest point of interest.
  • Do not have climax too certain, too hopelessly sure. 
  • Do not drag in a lot of extraneous material. 
  • Hit your interest-culminating point and stop.