Flash Fiction & Characterization

This week we read an essay called Fireworks and Burnt toast and followed up with the writing exercise at the end. The writing exercise utilized the techniques outlined in the essay. In class we discussed characterization, both direct and indirect. We also discussed point of view, first, second, and third person, and the benefits and drawbacks of each. We wrote a character outline and brief paragraph using the elements of characterization then shared them in small groups.

The first exercise of the week was to write a short story using the first line of another authors poem or short story. I was comfortable with the exercise and my idea came quickly. I continue to struggle with creating fresh and exciting images that create a lasting picture in the readers mind. I still feel that I tend more to tell the story as opposed to showing the story. However I do think that I've come up with a few solid ideas which lead to decent stories that could be great with a little editing and revision. In class we practiced characterization. I'm still having real problems with the five minute writing exercises and I never seem to accomplish the goal of the writing because I'm just too slow of a writer. For me writing is more drip coffee than instant crystals.

I'm becoming more observant of the world around me and specifically how I can describe the things I see. Sometimes I can look around and in a flash I have a vivid image that would be great to use in a story. Other things are not so easily linked and all I imagine are the basics like color, shape or texture. I think good writing requires constant work and a willing ness to fail. I do not think, for most writers, that it is a gift that you are born with. Rather it comes from an interest in language and a desire to share your ideas with a reader. You don't even need to have a fountain of ideas for stories to tell. Writing prompts can be very helpful for story ideas.