A short story introduction is the first paragraph or section of a short story that sets the scene and introduces the characters. The introduction is an important part of the story as it helps to establish the context and mood, and it can also provide important information about the characters and plot.
There are many different ways to write a short story introduction, and the approach you take will depend on the specific story you are writing. Here are a few examples of short story introductions to illustrate different styles and approaches:
Example 1: A Prologue
"It was a dark and stormy night. The wind howled through the trees, shaking the branches and sending leaves spiraling to the ground. Lightning split the sky, illuminating the path ahead for a brief moment before disappearing into the darkness once again. Mary huddled under her umbrella, struggling to make her way through the deluge. She was already soaked to the bone and shivering with cold, but she knew she couldn't turn back now. She had to keep going, no matter what. Suddenly, a bolt of lightning struck a tree ahead of her, sending it crashing to the ground and blocking her path. Mary froze, her heart pounding in her chest. She had no choice but to turn back and seek shelter, but where could she go?"
This introduction uses vivid imagery and descriptive language to set the mood and establish the setting. It also introduces the main character, Mary, and hints at the conflict she will face in the story.
Example 2: An Opening Scene
"The sun was just beginning to set as Jane walked through the park, her mind racing with all the things she still had to do before the end of the day. She had a presentation to prepare for work, groceries to buy, and a pile of laundry that seemed to grow every time she turned around. As she rounded a bend in the path, she saw a man sitting on a bench, his head in his hands. Something about the way he was sitting, hunched and defeated, made Jane pause. She knew she should keep walking, but something inside her couldn't let her pass by without trying to help. She took a deep breath and approached the man, her heart heavy with compassion."
This introduction uses a more mundane setting and situation to establish the protagonist's character and motivations. It also introduces a secondary character and hints at the conflict that will unfold in the story.
Example 3: An Exposition
"Sarah had always been fascinated by the stars. As a child, she would lay on the grass in her backyard and stare up at the sky, wondering what lay beyond the reaches of the solar system. When she was old enough, she decided to pursue her passion and became an astronomer. For years, she studied the stars, learning all she could about the mysteries of the universe. But despite all her knowledge and expertise, there was one thing that had always eluded her: the truth about what happened to her sister, who had disappeared without a trace when they were both just teenagers. Sarah had never given up hope of finding her sister, and when a strange message arrived in her inbox one day, she knew she had to act fast. Could this be the clue she had been waiting for?"
This introduction uses background information about the main character to establish her interests and motivations. It also introduces a key plot point and hints at the conflict that will drive the story forward.
These are just a few examples of short story introductions, and there are many other approaches you can take depending on the specific story you are writing. The important thing is to establish the context, mood, and character of your story in an engaging and compelling way.
