I have to write a point form outline for a short story... i need to start with a flashblack but not sure how?
the topic: Your main character is an easy going 74-year old woman. The story begins in a doctors surgery. Your character is determined to get to the truth.
What do you not understand? What kind of a memory or "flashback" might the woman have if she is in the surgery? Is she seeking the truth about her illness, her husband's illness, a child's illness? It might be a flashback to when the illness was first noticed, or when the injury happened. ??? Use your imagination.
There was no need to be rude... I was just asking a question.
To start your point form outline for a short story featuring a flashback, you can follow these steps:
1. Introduction:
- Introduce the main character as a 74-year-old woman who is easygoing.
- Set the scene in a doctor's surgery.
- Establish a sense of curiosity or determination in your character.
2. Present Situation:
- Describe the reason for the character's visit to the doctor's surgery.
- Show the character's interactions with the doctor or other people present.
3. Trigger for Flashback:
- Introduce a key event, dialog, or object that triggers the character's memories.
- This trigger should prompt the character to reflect on the past and seek the truth.
4. Flashback:
- Transition into the flashback section of the story.
- Describe the setting, time period, and any significant details relevant to the past event.
- Show the easygoing nature of the older woman and how it relates to the flashback event.
- Provide relevant backstory that connects to the character's determination for truth.
5. Development of the Flashback:
- Unfold the events of the flashback gradually, portraying the situation your character wants to uncover.
- Highlight any conflicts, twists, or challenges that the character faces during this time.
- Keep the focus on the character's pursuit of truth and what motivates her to seek it.
6. Contrast with the Present:
- Transition back to the present, connecting it to the flashback.
- Highlight the impact of the past events on the character's present mindset and determination.
7. Climax:
- Build towards a dramatic or pivotal moment where the character's pursuit of truth reaches a climax.
- Show the character's resolve and the significance of her determination.
8. Resolution:
- Conclude the story by providing some form of resolution or closure.
- Show whether the character achieves her goal or learns something valuable from her pursuit of truth.
Remember, these steps are not fixed and can be adjusted to suit your story's specific needs. Consider using the point form outline as a starting point to help structure your ideas and guide the development of your short story.