In medias res
In short: „In medias res“ (Latin for „into the middle of things“) means opening in the midst of the action – with no long introduction. The story begins in a scene already in motion.
Where the term comes from
The phrase comes from the Roman poet Horace, who advised storytellers not to begin at the beginning but to throw readers straight into the action. Short stories use this technique especially often.
How to nail the opening
Begin with a scene: Start with a concrete situation where something is already happening – not with backstory.
Create questions: The pull comes from readers not yet knowing everything and wanting to find out.
Feed in the background: What came before can follow later, in doses, when it's needed.
In medias res on Fireside
On Fireside the first sentences decide whether someone keeps reading – opening in the middle of the action helps. More ideas for a strong beginning are in our guide on how to write a short story.
Related terms: Exposition · Write short stories · Narrative Arc
Frequently asked questions
What does in medias res mean?
„Into the middle of things“ – a story opening right in the action, with no introductory backstory.
Why do short stories often begin in medias res?
Because space is tight: the immediate opening creates tension quickly and saves on lead-up.
How do I start in medias res without confusing readers?
Give readers something solid to hold on to: a clear character, a place and an action they understand at once. Feed in the background bit by bit.