How to Write a Short Story (with NO experience!)
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 31 ก.ค. 2024
- Are you struggling to write a short story? Like, no matter what you write, you’re NOT happy with it? And no matter what advice you take, it doesn’t seem to help at all? If so, don’t worry - you’re not alone. In this video, I’m going to show you what to focus on + debunk some common short story myths so that you can write a short story that MATTERS to you!
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✨T I M E S T A M P S✨
0:00 Introduction
0:57 Myth #1: you need to read short stories before you can write one
2:00 Myth #2: you need to write short stories before you can write a novel
5:17 Fundamental #1: PLOT
7:02 Fundamental #2: CHARACTERS
8:00 Fundamental #3: THEME
9:54 Non-linear narration & breaking the “rules”
11:06 Subscribe for weekly writing videos!
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✨ A B O U T ✨
My name is Abbie Emmons I teach writers how to make their stories matter by harnessing the power and psychology of storytelling, transforming their ideas into a masterpiece, and creating a lifestyle that makes their author dreams come true.
Story isn’t about “what happens” - it’s about how what happens affects and transforms the characters. I believe that there is an exact science (a recipe, if you will) behind a perfect story. And if you know what ingredients you need, you can create your own perfect story with ease and confidence. That’s what we talk about every week on this channel - and if it’s something you’re into, be sure to subscribe and join this community!
“Here’s the unpopular truth: not all writers are big readers ... that will probably cause you to be more self critical and more intimidated by the idea of writing anything at all.” Thank you!
YES! As someone who barely reads but still loves to write, this was so refreshing and encouraging to hear. I'm trying to read more, but I just don't have the attention span. I prefer more visual story mediums.
@@marcellacassab4331 me too. Not to mention, the way some books are written don't get me hooked really. When writing, I try to get away from these things.
Thank you 🙏🏾 I needed to hear this
@@marcellacassab4331 yes! I always end up faulting to webcomics and manga haha
@@ebsfxxedits1038 haha same
"smaller, simpler stories where there's not much of a plot going on, because it allows the characters to shine"
i really really really loved this i'm writing it down to remember it forever
If you really love it you don't have to write it down. Brain doesnt forget such special things
@@enguunhoyor2431 some people need to write stuff down. it's ok t write it down, op wasn't wrong to do it.
Thanks
Ecclesiastes 12:12
King James Version
12 And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.
@@enguunhoyor2431 ⁴a quick e èeee re
Hello Abbie!
I am Leo, a 12-year-old kid.
"MY MIND EXPLODED RIGHT AFTER I SAW THIS VIDEO!" Writing short stories is one of my most favorite hobbies. I love writing short stories, especially in my free time, just cuz it helps me a lot to story tell. It all started when I thought of starting a journey of writing short stories, as I loved short stories as heavens, and that moment is when I opened TH-cam and thought of getting pieces of advice from TH-camrs like you. I was tired of watching a lot of videos, but still not getting to write it! I tried watching a lot of videos to try writing my 1st short story, yet it didn't work! And that's until I clicked your video. After watching your video, I felt that watching your video was worth it. Three days later, I successfully finished my own short story - it was basically one whole short story, divided into two. But even though, I don't know why (and I also feel so WEIRD), I just keep on watching your video even after I finished my 1 short story! Now, I have decided to write another short story. Wish me good luck!
Thanks a lot!
Bye!!
Have a Great Day!
PEACE!!!
Good luck!
Good luck in writing, I’m 13 and I write and I wish you luck, people will tell you that you’re to young to write never listen
Good luck writing your stories! I started creating my own stories when I was 13. I’m 18 right now and I’m still in the middle of creating my 7th one.
Leo, go for it! I am 50 yo. And If I took seriously my love for writing early my world would have already been very different!
@@yankee2666 thanks!
"Our best is constantly changing" YES!!! This is such an important thing to remember and I think some people are afraid of this because they just want to be "their best" right now...but that'd actually mean you were just plateauing.
As a visual arts student, your paper analogy was 100% accurate 😂
Too real 😔✊😭
Hit a little too close to home Ngl 😂
I’m in art class two!
Unpopular opinion: writing short stories is harder than writing novels. Writing a novel may take more time, but it makes it a lot easier to make the reader attached to the plot/characters where as a short story you have limited time to make the reader care and/or understand. This video helped a lot with that! Thanks 😊
Agreed. I worked on longer fiction before working on shorter fiction because longer fiction came easier to me, mainly because that's most of what I read. I also disagree with Abbie because reading more short stories showed me how they work and let me study the form. Before that, I wasn't writing short stories, just pieces of novels. I don't think everyone has to read 1000s of short stories before they start, but they should at least read some to get a sense of the form.
One of my short story’s I wrote it’s not a happy ending, but I shared it with random strangers on discord and they all kept telling me how good it was. 1 person said they couldn’t finish it because it was so sad. Another person said they liked it a lot because they knew enough about the character but not a lot, (the character had no gender so the reader could image them however they want.) It was interesting seeing how everyone saw it vs. how I saw it. One other person said they think how I write is really good or something like that. But seeing that people like my story’s makes me happy and encourages me to write more!!
Hi! Can I read the story?
@@sangeetha2560 Sure, I can copy and paste it here, or give you my wattpad, which ever one you choose is fine by me!
@@nixie6021 Owh thanks I'll have your wattpad then.
@@sangeetha2560 okay, it's @Banana_Sloth should be the user with a sloth reading a book
Heyy I would like to read your story too but I don't have wattpad;w; if it wouldn't be too troublesome, could you please copy and paste it here?
Thanks and sorry for the trouble in advance
The biggest problem I have with my writing, is that I spend way too much time listening to youtube videos then to writting.
"This is art, you should do it your way" Very true. The writing process should be enjoyable mainly to the WRITER.
I like reading and writing fanfictions 😍
One of the best pieces of advice I've heard for short stories (or flash fiction) vs longer works is...if you're having trouble finishing a longer project, try a shorter one. The more projects you finish, the more confident you may feel in your ability to write complete stories.
This is *exactly* mainly why I've shifted from trying to complete a novel, to more so embracing writing short stories. Just to be able to finally finish SOMEthing..and MORE somethings... than just one, big thing. And yes, hopefully with enough finishing those many somethings, I'll finally gain the focus, motivation, clarity, and discpline to also start and finish that one, big thing :)
Best quote: "Our best is always changing." Abbie Emmons
SOO true. Every time we write, we improve the process. Great video, Abbie...as usual.
Whenever I write a short story for school it's basically just a set up for a long story...
Huh, the few short stories I do is *in media res*
that's me currently
That's what I am basically doing I just wrote what seems like a prologue with a cliff hanger and my school decided that it's really good and will be sent to the magazine submission It's kinda funny
You. Write. Short. Stories. At. School? Omg
Holy moly I literally have never written a short story before and I was thinking Man it would be so cool if I could figure out how to do that because I’m starting to write short stories, I decided to do this yesterday!
Ugh, I'm so happy you made this video. Also, your disdain when talking about the advice to not have a theme for short stories was amazing. Made my day, completely.
"Our best is constantly changing."
It sounds so simple and should be common sense but it's such a revelation to me. Thanks Abbie
I just won a short story contest... Been waiting for this video for EVER
I did not expect to get SO MUCH from this video simply because I'm a completely novice writer looking up "how to write a story" for the first time since high school almost 15 years ago. Thank you so, so much for all the information and guidance you provided in this video, not only was it really helpful but also it was extremely encouraging when thinking about all the details and passion I already have for the story I want to write.
This short story mith is also so prevalent in comic writing! You don't have to make a whole bunch of short comics to be able to make your big one, just make it!
I think the reason people say to start with short stories is because a lot of people have a hard time finishing a story. Once you finish one, you prove to yourself that you can and the hurdle of self doubt is lessened.
I have ADD, the idea of a novel is very overwhelming with no experience to writing stories. A short story on the other hand feels much more manageable and I’ve been making good progress
OMG when you said "here's the unpopular truth: not all writers are big readers" I felt so acknowledged
Yes, but it is mostly BS. Most of the great short story writers were highly literate readers immersed in reading and thinking, and it is reflected in the depth of writing. Modern populist short story writing is very hit-or-miss with a lot of it being absolute drivel. I am sure this is not accurate across-the-board in that there are a few writers that read relatively less than others do but I have read for decades and the best writers were immersed in reading. This does not mean that you cannot write short fiction - go for it - but don't think you are going to be a Chekov, Borges, or Hemingway.
A while ago I wrote a short story that I really liked, and I haven’t actually been able to write something to top it but I think I now understand why I loved it so much. It had a bunch of the fundamentals that you spoke of. I think I can now make something even better.
I am not a big reader! But I love to write, plot and make character profiles. I really enjoy it, so thank you for saying that not all writers are big readers.
Amazing Abbie, as always! Loved the video, and all that you said. Makes me feel more confident of my unusual short stories - you instil the confidence, that they don’t necessarily have to follow a pattern. Thank you Abbie - keep sharing more. I learn a lot from you. Highly appreciate!
I always went for writing long books because my ideas ended up being too big - so this was very useful (:
I love your enthusiasm. I love how you broke down the myths. Just write. I love it. I have many story ideas in my head, and this helped tremendously.
I'm not sure if I learned more about story writing or about vocal performance. I'm in love with how professional and yet emotionally invested you sound when explaining this stuff. You shine with confidence that borders on being egotistical and I love it! After listening to so many dry speakers, hearing yours felt like having a long standing itch finally be scratched.
I'm just looking and writing at my story with your Live Stream in the background and this comes up. Just HAVE to see this after I'm done with the writing sprints!
Something that helps me or started me on short stories is side characters. Your side characters in your novel usually have a subtle change or arc within the course of the novel. They are a SUBPLOT. This would make them ideal practice for short story. Since I kinda felt overwhelmed finding a way to downsize any idea or anything I have for characters and event so a kinda set there already plot and character is SIDE CHARACTERS! I hope this helps people who want to write a short story but couldn't find any ideas!
"Two Kinds" by Amy Tan, part of her anthology "The Joy Luck Club", is a great example of character driven story. The author starts with backstory, and I was invested in the protagonist's and antagonist's character arcs.
Thank you Abbie, your advise is great. I'm writing a musical stage play, and your information is helping me to write a better story.
Oh my sweet Grandma's brownie biscuits, this is something I needed to hear!
I really liked this one Abbie because it’s so true that your “best” is only subjective to where your at and how much time you spend on each story editing, fixing etc. if you spend a lot of time on something be it short story or novel it may be your best because it’s getting most of your time and consideration.
I’m trying to write a short story now that takes place between novels and gives more insight to details later on in the series
Wow! You got me re-fired up.
I started with short stories decades ago, mainly due to my short attention span. Now I write them as a respite to the novel I've been working on. I've gotten about 3/4 of them published with minor editing.
Kudos on you production values. Your diction, lighting, composition and especially the audio are great. I love your use of music and pauses in same to emphasize your points.
As you like to say, "Rock on!"
*SLAMS LIKE BUTTON* 💛✨(this is absolutely what i've been dyyying for, no kidding. bless you, dear Abbie :D)
Thanks Abbie! I came here from your newsletter. I didn’t really think of it as me “not being qualified” to write a novel. It was more that I wasn’t sure if I wanted to spend so much time writing something if I don’t know if I actually enjoy the process. So, short story writing it was for me :) I also have many “simple” stories that I want to get out into the world. Many of these are following the protagonist’s development after an event and I didn’t think it should be dragged out into a novel. Just my thoughts on it 🤷♀️
Thank you Abbie❤for your word.
I used to feel doubt about myself whenever i started writing.But now ,your word make me feel confident.
Such a great inspirational i have ever heard ❤
Oh my gosh, you READ MY MIND! I needed this so much!!!
Your videos are so inspiring! I feel much more confident about writing my short story now.
Alternate title: Why to write a novel instead of a short story
...or vice-versa!
*me writing a Novel and still not finished for several years*
:I
@@M3rtyville: Me too. Between my own thoughts and my Critique Group, it keeps getting better! Pretty soon I'll put on the brakes and publish it as-is.
I've got a couple more to write!
I tried to find even one short story by this person, but was not successful. This video contained no advice for writing a short story, and its way to guess why.
I'm much more interested in short stories. I love the short story format which I got into when I had young children. I did not have time to focus on long immersive novels and began reading Nocturnes by Kazuo Ishiguro. Wow, each story a mood, a feeling, a perfectly formed little world, a tiny glittering microcosm, a glimpse into the window of a life without having to move in. Nevert over-staying their welcome they leave an impression and go. I still remember most of the stories to this day and some have really stayed with me.
Since then I've read many books of short stories and have not lost my preference for them. For me the ability to write short stories, so focused and lean, every word so carefully chosen, is preferable to writing an entire novel.
I see the day is not too far off in the distance when we'll be signing up for your course on Masterclass, Abbie! You are THAT good!
hi abbie, just discovered your channel. you're a fantastic teacher with some very wise things to say. thank you for your work.
I always felt like my short stories I had to write for school were terrible and now I see it's because school asked too much for their plots.
Where have you been all my days!? I love you and I want to be in your circle! Thank you for this video☺
Yesss thank you!! We write short storys in school all the time. I think it's really hard to write it short and interesting at the same time
I CAN'T BELIEVE IT! I'm learning to literally adore you with every video I discover. I wish I had known about you since you started posting.
I love these videos and your no BS approach! I need to start taking notes because you provide so much useful information! Thank you so much!!
Abbie pulling out all the stops of her crash-course in storytelling here! Love it!
Thank you Abbie! you just answered the questions I've been searching for! I'm not a writer or a big reader but I do want to learn making up stories though animation and comics
Excellent, I loved this. I have just received great advice and some very important reflections from someone who could be my granddaughter.
THIS all makes so much sense! Glad to see like minded people say ans think outside the box.. I have distance myself from 1st manuscript, but I had an idea for a short story. I am really enjoying and getting and education from your videos and will look into this patreon community I seen you talk about. Mahalo Nui Loa!
This video was amazing! I’ve always wanted to write short stories but believed so many myths, that I was stifled. But, no more! Thank you.
I started writing a story during lockdown (first one ) but felt it wasn’t getting anywhere, I sent it to a few friends to ask their opinion, they all enjoyed it and wanted to know what happens next! This gave me the confidence and inspiration to write more!
Thank you soo much! Needed to hear this! I've always been trying to write a novel not because I've wanted to, but because I've always has this misconception that short stories are not as great as novels. Well now I know better, and I realize some of my best works were short stories, since as you said "they really allowed the character to shine". So thank you SOOO MUCH once again! Lots of love from India 🇮🇳
"We all are this journey together'',this hit my heart.❤️
Good morning, Abbie! I have enjoyed watching this video of you explaining on how to write short stories, but in a comedic way. You're like a comedy commentator in writing when you create these videos and give good advice. Have a wonderful day, happy writing and since your saying is, "Rock on," well mine is, "Party on or keep jamming!"
This video is literally perfect!! It has helped me so much with my short story along with many others by this wonderful person.
Thank you so much!!!!
I was totally doubting myself on writing something, because I thought it wouldn’t be good enough even if it were not meant to be shared
*But this drew so much insight and I feel like I have learned things!*
Thanks so much for the great advice! I'm working on a short story and nearly forgot about the main character's internal struggle. Definitely need to emphasize it more and give it depth. Maybe I'll have a novella instead of just a short story now!
Hey abbie love your personality I can literally feel your energy and passion for writing. I used to write small storys of how my day went, My English teacher told me to do that as practice, I also love to write in my spare. But have not for years.All my time go's into my job, ministry work, which i love to do, and the cares of life. When i write out my thoughts i feel a inner peace and weight being lift off. I am going back to that mind set. By the grace of God.
Real quality video. I love the amount of professionalism you put into your work. I am impressed.
OMG, thank you, this is exactly what I needed to hear. It has indeed given me some clarity.
this literally came in the right time, i need to write a short story for my literature class. Thanks, Abbie :D
This video is pure gold. I love it. Because (in my opinion), the point here is to be creative and do what feels good for YOU. Not about trying to fit into structures that limit what you want to explore. Just saying ❤
My dream career that I’m wanting to be is a Journalist and I want to start by practicing on writing short stories RIGHT THIS SECOND FROM NOW ON. When I start doing this, I really want my stories to be entertaining and interesting for anyone to read and I don’t want it to sound or be boring at all and also even if I do write a book too. I really love your video and it did help me A LOT as well.❤️📓📖
This is great. I love your explanations. I am a reader and a writer. I am struggling with writing short stories because I just have too much story to put into a small space. But you gave me some great ideas on how to make that work. Thank you
Thanks! Your passion for writing and myth-busting is very inspiring!
Oh my gosh, you are right about reading before writing. As I read, I get worked up and start judging myself. Comparing how perfect they write to myself. 😨
I am confident in my writing skills after watching this video. Thanks for comforting and boosting my courage.
I'm so glad I found your channel! This advice was great and much needed for me. Thank you!
Really loved this. Such a change to be encouraged to write without following a specific set of guidelines ❤
Exactly
Great video, Abbie! I love the way you gently, and with a pinch of fun, pour your ideas into the watchers’ minds. I love it and it’s really helpful! Subscribed, and will start exploring short stories writing, with the help of your videos! Thank you so much!!! Cheers.
This was really helpful...for the night before my exam! I was really worried about this topic but not anymore.
I love how all comments are so long and well written it just makes them a better fit for this Chanel
This video has been so helpful! Thanks a lot Abbie, your words are very powerful ❤
This was concise, structured and wise - exactly what I was looking for - thank you!
Great video, I've been writing short stories for the past year and now I'm ready to try and get them published.
Wowwwwwwww. That idea that all writing is practice just lifted a huge burden off my shoulders. Thank you!! Subscribed lol
Just a few days ago I submitted my short story to a competition and after watching your video, I'm glad my short story matches the requirements you described!
You have a great message and it is delivered well! Thank you!
This video is very helpful. I literally come to write a short storie before starting a novel. But this video clear all my myths. Thank you
Thank you Abbie, I've never written a short story before but was able to write one inspired by a song "Another Love" that just touched me deeply. The video helped a lot.
AAA Getting some of the more chaotic and energetic Abbie vibes from the older videos with this one! I've missed this! Love it!!
Anyway - Thank you for the great advice!! As always! lol
I just wanted to say thank you because your videos are helping me finish my first novella
LOVE the Seth Godin quotes It's going up on the wall next to another favourite "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit." Aristotle. Love your very helpful content - keep up the good work!
I am so happy! I was gonna practice on writing a news article based on the facts in the board right now! I am practicing by making up my own story. HUGE THANKS!
Wonderful video Abbie, inspiring and courageous with advice not given in the fee paying sector ! How many great writers have done what you advise and broken the trend. Well done, fortune favours the brave .
You are awesome I needed a little motivation for my short stories and this is it. Thank you for making this video. 🤩🤩✌
Great points! All writing makes us better writers. Love it.
Very helpful thoughts and advice here. I'm happy to have seen this. Love it!
Hi Abbie. I enjoyed your video and found it helpful, so thank you. I wanted to also mention how impressed I was with your video production. Nice work!
thanks so much for teaching us that the story (internal conflict of the main character) is more important than the plot.
This advise actually helps me a lot, thanks Abbie.
Congrats on a year of the kate and Abbie show!!
It's the best motivational video related to writing at this channel. I love your encouraging words.
Thanks for validating for not reading a lot. I mainly was very visual and I draw a lot. I then decide to describe what I see in detail. Thank you for the quote about practice
Peace Place
You don't know me yet, but I do you. I am what you dream of from the second you wake up until you rest you head at night. I am the endless night sky you look up at while you try to count the trillions of stars floating above you. I am the unexplainable feeling you got when you listened to that song, the warmth you seek, the inner peace you will never get to experience in this life, or any other. I am not God, but for I am the Peace Place. Every daydream you've had has been here. I am filled with peaceful chaos and bittersweet moments. We may never meet in person, but in your subconscious you are welcome every minute. For we are alone together and all we need is us.
This is seriously an underrated TH-cam channel. Great video
Thanks a lot, Abbie. I am impressed by every word that you speak. You are amazing!
You’re smart, authentic and adorbs! HEART YOU! Thank you for this! 🥰
I’m making a short story about my friend’s cat as a gift for her, and this was very helpful!