A Little More Research by Joan Hess, 1990
The magic trick:
Turning the story’s conflict into a solution with a single shocking twist
Our second Joan Hess of the weekend, and this one follows a similar theme as yesterday’s “Death Of A Romance Writer.” That story surprised with its combination of story within the story. This one does too, just in a different way.
In “A Little More Research,” a writer is up against an intense deadline. He’s struggling to hammer out a book while his wife interrupts him with questions about dinner reservations.
Two problems for him to solve. The solution to both presents itself quickly and with a shock to the reader.
And that’s quite a trick on Hess’s part.
The selection:
“Don’t let me disturb you, but how about if I make reservations for later just in case you get done with your story?”
“I’m not going to get done if you don’t leave me alone. I told you when you insisted on coming over tonight that I absolutely must have peace and quiet in order to concentrate.”
“I happen to be speaking very quietly, my dear Hot Shot Writer.”
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