Week 6 Blog

Week 6 Entry

This week we were introduced to short stories. During class we read a couple flash fiction stories. We also did an exercise in groups. Each group read their story and presented in front of the class. We each discussed the setting, conflict, foreshadowing, irony, in media res, and allusion. My group had the story "Dismantling the City". I found this exercise beneficial because as groups we were able to break down and discuss each part of the story. The members in each group also got to participate in the presentation. 

Poetry differs from these flash fiction stories in many ways. I've realized that in poetry the poet has the ability to elaborate more on their topic via their word usage, and in short stories the author has to quickly explain their point. Since the stories are short, it is important for every detail to be introduced rather quickly. In short stories, the author focuses more on the problem and goes further in detail, rather than using rhythm and repetition. Flash fiction appears to be in selected scenes. The setting in the story really gives the reader an idea of what is actually going on. The characters’ words and feelings toward each other make the story come to life. Poetry and flash fiction can also be similar. The reader pictures many different mental images while reading both poetry and flash fiction. One might also be able to relate to a character in short stories.

I enjoy reading flash fiction, but I also find some of the readings somewhat difficult to understand. Short stories are definitely short and to the point, but also really random. Short stories require creativity and thought. Writing our own short stories should be really interesting and exciting to read.