Just Curious...

[Terygon]

...But I was wondering what makes a good story for you. I know, I know, good plot and good characters and good writing and all. I mean a little more specific. For example I like stories:

Where the Heroes win, but have to fight for it.

Where (to quote Melissa Scully) "Being good and true doesn't make it trite and silly." (OK, misquoting Melissa Scully)

Anyone else?

[Branflakes]

A good story is one that makes me forget reality.

Also, one that shows human triumph and fragility. The story has to end right, whether or not the hero wins.

[crazy a]

A dash of humor if it's a "serious" story.

Simplicity in language. And by that I mean I don't want the writer to throw around a vocabulary so much that I have to read a passage over and over to see what's happening. This is where Charles Bukowski and John Fante have influenced me most. The language is simple, in the style anyone can understand. And it's also about subject matter that I can relate to. Long sweaty hours on a job that's killing you? I've been there.

Although I like the hero to get the girl in the end, it's ok if he doesn't.

I like to see the hero make it. But if he doesn't, I like to see him keep on keepin' on.