Short Story
In short: A short story is a brief prose narrative that concentrates on a single moment, character or conflict. It often begins in the middle of the action, avoids subplots and frequently ends open or on a quiet point.
Where the term comes from
The modern short story took shape in the 19th century, not least with Edgar Allan Poe, who argued that a tale should be readable in one sitting and aim at a single effect.
How to build a short story
One focus: Limit yourself to one conflict, one turn, one person. The brevity is not a weakness but the strength of the form.
Enter late, leave early: Begin as close as possible to the decisive moment, and stop as soon as it has fallen.
Every word counts: In a short story no sentence has room to idle. Whatever adds nothing, cut it.
Think the ending open: Many strong short stories end not with a resolution but with a resonance – an image that stays.
Short stories on Fireside
Fireside is a place for exactly this form: short stories read in a few minutes that still leave something behind. You can read for free and write your own here – and develop your voice with editorial feedback.
Related terms: Exposition · In medias res · Cliffhanger
Frequently asked questions
What is a short story in simple terms?
A brief prose narrative focused on a single moment, character or conflict, often ending open.
How long is a short story?
Usually from a few hundred to a few thousand words – short enough to read in one sitting.
What are typical features of a short story?
A brief opening (often mid-action), a single focus, few characters, no subplot and frequently an open ending.