I need short story ideas. I am hoping to write a real tear-jerker, but I've already written works involving mental illness, eating disorders, and suicide. Does anyone have any other ideas?

Lovers who must part (for any number of reasons). The death of a loved one. How about happy tears in a story about something going very badly for someone, but turns out very well, like an abandoned child who is rescued and finds a loving home or something like that? There are lots of plots that have been used that end happily and can bring tears of joy.

That's true. Thank you, Reed.

One common plot, used in various forms over centuries, is the lonely single person, perhaps widowed, who is resigned to a humdrum life alone but unexpectedly finds a delightful person to share life with. Just another idea.

Interesting. Thanks again.

Of course! Coming up with new short story ideas can sometimes be challenging, but here's a method you can use to generate fresh and tear-jerking ideas:

1. Identify emotions: Think about the emotions you want to evoke in your readers. Besides sadness, consider other powerful emotions like love, hope, betrayal, or forgiveness. Identifying the core emotion you want to focus on can help you shape the story.

2. Draw from personal experiences: Reflect on personal experiences or moments that have made you feel emotional. It could be a heart-wrenching breakup, a difficult family situation, or a profound loss. These experiences can be a great source of inspiration for compelling stories.

3. Explore unique perspectives: Consider telling your story from an unconventional perspective. For example, you can write from the point of view of a child who is experiencing sadness or a caregiver who witnesses the impact of a tragic event. Exploring different perspectives can bring fresh angles to the tear-jerking elements of the story.

4. Unexpected conflicts: Think about conflicts that haven't been explored yet. It could be a powerful clash of values, a deep-rooted secret, or a morally challenging situation. Combining unexpected conflicts with emotional themes can help create the tear-jerker effect you're going for.

5. Setting and atmosphere: Pay attention to the setting and atmosphere of your story. Places with personal significance or locations that amplify the desired emotions can enhance the tear-jerking aspect. Consider atmospheric elements such as weather, time of day, or the general ambiance to set the mood effectively.

6. Twist and resolution: Incorporate unexpected twists or turns in your story that intensify emotions and engage readers. The resolution can provide closure but leaving a lingering sense of sadness or hope can also be poignant.

By following these steps, you can generate new tear-jerking story ideas that haven't been explored before. Remember, it's essential to handle sensitive topics with care and ensure that your story promotes empathy and understanding.