What I’ve Learned from the NYC Midnight Short Story Challenge
This week, I’ve had an exercise of writing comedy for the NYC Midnight Short Story Challenge. On Friday night of last week, I received the genre of comedy with the subject of personal trainer, and it was my task to write a 2,500 words max short story from that. I have never written any comedy nor any stories about personal trainers so this entire experience has been new for me.
Here is what I have learned:
1. Writing comedy is not easy.
Geez, this is a lot harder than it looks. Getting timing right and even figuring out the right way to word a joke is one of the hardest things I’ve done in a writing exercise. I’m also usually not really a funny person in the real world either so it might be why I struggled.
2. It’s true. Politics make for good jokes.
It may seem cliche, but looking at the political world is a great way to get some inspiration for some jokes. Comedy gold just asking to be written.
3. Snarky is funny.
You don’t have to do the physical slapstick stuff in order to make someone laugh. I actually prefer snarky over that kind of comedy, and I think my story is better because I included some snark.
4. Don’t wait until the last minute.
This is about writing contests and challenges in general. I waited until the day before the story was due to really get started on it. I think if I had more time I could make it a lot better than it is.
5. Get input.
One of the most important things I’ve learned lately about all writing. Brace yourself and ask for critique. It’s great to get someone else’s point of view, and this has really helped my story. I’ve gotten some great ideas and suggestions for making the story better.
Comments
Stumbled across this site looking for info on the short-story competition. I entered, as well (fairy tale; credit card(s)), and enjoyed the challenge of the heat format, and breaking away from your conventions. A friend of mine was stuck with comedy - easily the most difficult genre to write. My sympathies. And agreed … waiting until the last minute isn’t a great idea. My computer crashed the day before it was due, and I had to start over on a friend’s computer day of (yesterday). At any rate, just thought I’d share a war story. Good luck.
@ Y2: Good luck to you too. Looks like we won’t be finding out the results for about a month. Even if I don’t make the next round, it’s been a great writing exercise!
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