Our Flash Fiction Competition saw young writers create pocket-sized stories, condensing universal themes and important ideas into just 99 words. “I think flash fiction is often forced to deal with the universal,” says winner Elsa Dormon. “There is no time to invest in specific characters, so we create a story through implication, which can make the writing more expansive.”
Learn more about the winners and their advice for writing and reviewing this unique genre!
Elsa Dormon, Winner:
How did you develop the idea for your winning story?
The core idea for the extended metaphor had been rattling around my head for a while; I just hadn't found the right medium to really use it in the way I wanted to. I find that blood is a very evocative symbol, and haemoptysis in particular connotes the idea of something very wrong within the body. Especially in a visual medium like film, I have seen it used to signify anything from tuberculosis to AIDS. In my writing, I wanted to show how this could be interpreted in short story form and how it could be applied more broadly than death - in this case, to the end of a relationship.
Guest Judge Tara Lynn Masih praised your "universal and perceptive" ideas. Did you set out to capture a universal experience in your story, and how did you achieve this?
I was so grateful to hear her kind words; it made me confident that what I planned to do had been successful. I think flash fiction is often forced to deal with the universal; there is no time to invest in specific characters, so we create a story through implication, which can make the writing more expansive. In a way, I feel that I was trying to appeal to the universal - most people can think of a time in their life when a disaster felt imminent or 'impending,' and I hope I was able to do justice to that emotion.
Do you have any advice for other young writers who want to try flash fiction?
Historically, it has not been my favorite medium since I often struggle to cut stories down to such a strict word count. However, I find it a very useful and fun way to try out old ideas I've been holding on to, lines too short for a poem, phrases not developed enough for a longer story. Having such a short structure allows for playful and quick creativity. My technique was to churn out a couple of poorer pieces and refine the ones I preferred.
Bhoomi, Best Peer Review:
Why did you choose to write a review of 'Labour of Love'?
The emotions of love were so beautifully crafted by the writer, and it trapped me in its subtleties. I wanted to review the piece to explore and develop its intriguing appeal.
The Guest Judge commended your "helpful, gentle criticism." When reviewing, how do you ensure that you give feedback in a supportive and positive way?
I personally believe feedback should be as supportive as it is constructive. Uplifting like true love.
What is your favorite genre to write or review in?
I love fantasy writing!