Thread by @EllieDiJulio

Part 3 of this series on writing #microfiction emerges from the misty woods at first light. It yawns, stretches, then lopes off into the wilds of the internet, wary, but expectant.

How to Write Microfiction #3: (Don't) Begin at the beginning

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#nononovember #thewritestuff

Microfiction occupies ground somewhere between short story and anecdote. You’re taking your reader on a journey through a world you create, but it’s also vital to hook their emotions and leave them saying “wow” or “hrm.” No one likes a story that dribbles away at the end.
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Since wordcount is limited, though, you’ve got to be clever with how you cast your line.

A great tactic is starting in media res. Beginning in the middle (or end) means the details given as the story progresses illuminate context, character & conflict without exposition.
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This immediately engages your reader by making them work for their story.
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Another strategy is the gradual reveal. Because you know the full picture, you can roll it out in tiny pieces that build on each other until the reader sees it, too.
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O. Westin of @MicroSFF is a master of this, as are @ASmallFiction and @QuietPineTrees.

Just go read those entire feeds. I'll wait.
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If all else fails, pretend you’re M. Night Shyamalan and you’ll be fine.


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Remixing standard plot development lets you cram more meaning into fewer words and invests the reader more deeply, which is perfect for microfiction.

Just grab your story by the middle and twist.
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If you liked this and are into the idea of writing a wee bit of fiction every day in November, join me for #NoNovelNovember starting TOMORROW OMG.

DM for details (like how to get into the secret Facebook group where I'll be cheerleading you daily).
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