If you want to write better, start by trying to write a very short story in six words.
Here, for example, are some short stories featured on SixWordStories.net (this website was inspired by the original short short story by Ernest Hemingway: For sale: baby shoes, never worn.).
Painfully, he changed “is” to “was.”
Born a twin; Graduated only child.
We’re lying in bed. She’s lying.
“Total media blackout,” agreed the President.
“Wrong number,” says a familiar voice.
Torched the haystack. Found the needle.
“Male?” “It’s an older driver’s license.”
Just tried. Failed. Will try again.
I get inspired by these short stories. I have found that the best ways to improve your writing is to write such short stories or to write poetry. Both force you to economize with words, paint pictures with words, and learn how to tell a story quickly and succinctly.
And, for nonfiction authors, here are some six word memoirs to inspire you. These were featured on Six Word Memoirs, a website from Smith Magazine.
Born in the desert, still thirsty. — Georgene Nunn
Nobody cared, then they did. Why? — Chuck Klosterman
I asked. They answered. I wrote. — Sebastian Junger
Catholic school backfired. Sin is in! — Nikki Beland
Stayed up too late. Found this. — John Kremer
As you can see, it’s possible to write a story and even a memoir in six words. Try it yourself!
Hey, if teenagers can do it, you can too! Check out these memoirs from teens!
I can’t keep my own secrets.
Living my dream. Please send money.
They pressure you to be perfect.
It hurts to be this good.
Hold me until I feel okay.
I’m nothing if I’m not myself.
About John Kremer
John Kremer is author of 1001 Ways to Market Your Books, the Relationships Matter Marketing program, and many other books and reports on book marketing, Internet marketing, social media, and book publicity. -- John Kremer on Book Marketing.
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