The Tiny Story Challenge: Can You Tell a Tale in Just 50 Words?
Hey fellow word-wranglers! I stumbled across something that made my writer brain do a happy dance, and I just had to share. It’s called 50 Word Fiction, and it’s exactly what it sounds like—telling a complete story in just 50 words. Not 51. Not 49. Exactly 50!
What’s This Madness About?
Remember those writing exercises where you had to trim all the fat from your prose? This takes that concept and turns it into a delightful little challenge. Each month, they give you a prompt (right now it’s “Write a 50 word story featuring a pencil”), and you craft a micro-masterpiece within those constraints.
It’s like literary haiku on steroids—every word has to earn its place, and there’s no room for those flowery descriptions we sometimes hide behind. (I’m looking at myself in the mirror here!)
Why It’s Actually Super Fun
I tried writing one yesterday and discovered it’s:
- A perfect coffee break creativity boost
- Great practice for tightening your regular writing
- Surprisingly satisfying when you nail it
- A nice break from staring at your novel manuscript and questioning all your life choices
Past Prompts That Made Me Smile
They’ve had some cool themes in the past: stories featuring frost, whales, museums, hot chocolate, and even a black cat! Each month brings a new prompt to spark your imagination.
I particularly loved seeing what people did with the “Write a story featuring a plant pot” prompt. Who knew a simple container could inspire so many different tales?
Next Steps: How to Join the Micro-Fiction Party
Ready to squeeze a universe into 50 words? Here’s how:
- Head to the 50 Word Fiction page
- Check out the current prompt (pencil!)
- Draft your tiny tale—count those words carefully!
- Submit through their simple entry form
- Cross fingers and wait to see if your micro-masterpiece gets featured
Give It a Shot!
Whether you’re taking a break from your epic fantasy trilogy or just want to flex those creative muscles, this 50-word challenge is a delightful little writing snack. I’d love to see what you come up with!
Pop over to the site and give it a try. Who knows? Your tiny tale might be exactly what someone needs to read today.
