This page displays my research for this project. This chapter explains research methodologies and Findings for my Unit 9 Project. It starts with research questions and follows with a description of the research design or methods of intended research sources and research methods I will use to explore and investigate my medium and themes.
Planning
Research Plan
Below are some images of my plan when it comes to researching the themes and mediums for this project. I have gone into more detail when it comes to what I will do for each category of research and the specific sub-themes that I think will help looking into for this project.
The research plan is helpful for future research because it provides a clear framework and direction for exploring the chosen theme. It breaks down the different aspects of the project—such as themes, sub-themes, primary and secondary research, and audience analysis—which ensures that no key areas are overlooked. This structured approach is something that I think will save me time during future research by outlining specific tasks, like conducting interviews, creating surveys, and analysing existing works, making the process more efficient and focused.
Additionally, the plan highlights potential resources and techniques, such as the use of Google Forms or analysing published stories, which can be expanded upon as the research develops. It helps to identify gaps in knowledge and ensuring that future efforts remain aligned with the project’s goals. By having this plan in place, my future research will be more targeted, ensuring that every step taken directly contributes to achieving a deeper understanding of cultural and social differences and effectively conveying the theme in my final work.
Secondary Research
Analysing Published Work
In this section I have analysed a range of work that has helped/inspired my themes for this project. It includes short stories, articles and a documentary.
BBC Imagine - Never Give Up
Watching the BBC documentary Imagine… Bernardine Evaristo: Never Give Up profoundly impacted my approach to the themes in my project. The film delves into Evaristo's journey as an Anglo-Nigerian writer, highlighting her perseverance and dedication to storytelling.
One aspect that resonated deeply with me was Evaristo's exploration of diverse narratives within the African life. Her commitment to bringing marginalized voices to the forefront has inspired me to examine themes of identity and representation in my own work. The documentary showcased how she intricately weaves multiple perspectives into her narratives, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and the celebration of varied experiences.
Furthermore, Evaristo's relentless pursuit of her creative vision, despite numerous challenges, underscored the theme of resilience. Observing her journey reinforced my understanding of the necessity to persist in the face of adversity, a theme I aim to incorporate into my project.
The documentary also highlighted Evaristo's innovative narrative structures, blending poetry and prose to convey complex stories. This approach has encouraged me to experiment with different forms and styles in my writing, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling to better express the multifaceted nature of my themes.
A Female Perspective from generations of immigrant workers in Britain - Oxford Article
Reading the article this article has provided me with profound insights that have significantly influenced the thematic development of my project.
The article discusses Professor Linda McDowell's research, which involves interviews with 74 working women who settled in the UK over the past 60 years. Their narratives encompass a wide range of experiences, from overcoming discrimination and disadvantage to rebuilding their lives in a new country. This focus on personal stories has inspired me to delve deeper into themes of migration, resilience, and the female experience in my own work.
One aspect that particularly resonated with me is the diversity of backgrounds and circumstances among these women. The article highlights stories of female refugees who came to Britain at the end of World War II, migrants from Pakistan and India after independence, and those expelled by Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, among others. This range of experiences has encouraged me to explore the multifaceted nature of migration and the unique challenges faced by women from different cultural and historical contexts. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the significant contributions these women have made to British society, often in the face of adversity. For instance, many migrant women joined the labor market in the immediate post-war years, taking up roles in the newly expanding public sector, including the NHS. This narrative of resilience and perseverance has reinforced my desire to highlight the strength and agency of female characters in my project, showcasing their ability to overcome obstacles and effect positive change. Incorporating these insights, I aim to create pieces of writing that not only acknowledge the struggles of women in different cultures but also celebrate their contributions and resilience. By weaving these themes into my work, I hope to offer a portrayal of the immigrant experience from a female perspective.
Bernardine Evaristo - Girl, Woman, Other
Reading Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo has been incredibly inspiring and has played a big role in helping me choose the mediums for my project. The novel’s exploration of diverse women’s lives—each shaped by different cultural, social, and economic backgrounds—really resonated with the theme I want to focus on. Evaristo’s ability to weave together multiple narratives while addressing complex issues like privilege, identity, and inequality showed me how powerful storytelling can be in capturing the nuances of lived experiences.
The book also inspired me to consider how to best convey these themes in my own work. Evaristo’s unique style, blending perspectives and voices, gave me the idea to use a short story as one of my mediums. Fiction feels like the perfect way to bring personal and emotional dimensions to my project, just as she does so effectively in her novel. At the same time, the book’s focus on interconnected experiences encouraged me to also include a feature article. This format allows me to ground the theme in real-world examples and analysis, making the discussion both accessible and thought-provoking. Together, these mediums let me balance the creative and analytical sides of the topic, much like how Girl, Woman, Other manages to be both deeply personal and socially insightful.
References:
Evaristo, B. (2019). Girl, Woman, Other. S.L.: Penguin Books.
www.ox.ac.uk. (n.d.). A female perspective from generations of immigrant workers in Britain | University of Oxford. [online] Available at: https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2016-05-05-female-perspective-generations-immigrant-workers-britain.
BBC. (2021). Bernardine Evaristo: Never Give Up. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000z9bj [Accessed 23 Jan. 2025].
Bhuvaneswar, C. (2018). White dancing elephants : stories. Ann Arbor, Mi: Dzanc Books.
Analysing Statistics
For this part of my secondary research, I decided to gather some information/statistics about gender norms and societal pressures on people living in different parts of the world. This was not only useful for obtaining relevant facts and figures for my feature article, but it also helped me gain some insight for my short story.
"Recent studies have illuminated the complex landscape of gender norm perceptions across various cultures. A comprehensive analysis utilizing data from the World Gallup Poll, encompassing 60 countries across six continents, revealed that misperceptions of societal norms are both widespread and context-dependent. In nations with less gender equality, individuals often underestimate the support for women's basic rights, such as the freedom to work outside the home. Conversely, in more gender-equal societies, there's a tendency to overestimate support for affirmative action policies favoring women in leadership roles."
"These misperceptions can perpetuate gender inequalities. For instance, in Saudi Arabia, a significant number of men privately support women's employment but believe their peers do not share this view. This false consensus discourages individuals from acting on their true beliefs, thereby maintaining restrictive norms. Correcting these misperceptions through informational interventions has been shown to prompt rapid behavioral changes, fostering greater gender equality."
"Furthermore, research indicates that perceptions of gender norms are highly correlated with actual norms across countries but are systematically distorted. In less gender-equal countries, people underestimate support for both basic rights and affirmative action, particularly among men. In contrast, in more gender-equal countries, there's an overestimation of support for affirmative action, especially among women, and an underestimation of support for basic freedoms."
References:
Bursztyn, L., Cappelen, A.W., Tungodden, B., Voena, A. and Yanagizawa-Drott, D.H. (2023). How Are Gender Norms Perceived? [online] National Bureau of Economic Research. doi:https://doi.org/10.3386/w31049.
Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR). (2023). Surprising insights from a global study on perceptions of gender norms. [online] Available at: https://siepr.stanford.edu/news/surprising-insights-global-study-perceptions-gender-norms?utm_source=chatgpt.com [Accessed 28 Jan. 2025].
CEPR. (2023). How gender norms are perceived across the world. [online] Available at: https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/how-gender-norms-are-perceived-across-world?[Accessed 28 Jan. 2025].
Findings:
My research into gender norm perceptions across different cultures has revealed significant insights into how societal beliefs about gender roles are often misperceived. Through an analysis of global survey data, particularly from the World Gallup Poll covering 60 countries, I discovered that individuals frequently hold inaccurate assumptions about their society’s views on gender equality.
One of the key findings is that in countries with lower gender equality, both men and women tend to underestimate the level of societal support for women's rights, such as the freedom to work outside the home. This misperception can prevent progress, as individuals may refrain from advocating for change if they believe others do not support it. A striking example comes from Saudi Arabia, where a large number of men privately support women's employment but wrongly assume that their peers do not share this belief. These false perceptions reinforce restrictive norms and slow the adoption of more equitable policies.
Additionally, in highly gender-equal societies, people tend to overestimate support for affirmative action policies designed to promote women in leadership. Interestingly, in these societies, women often underestimate the level of societal backing for their fundamental rights, while men sometimes overestimate support for gender-based initiatives. These distortions in perception highlight the broader issue that attitudes toward gender norms are not just shaped by actual opinions but also by the beliefs people hold about what others think.
A key takeaway from this research is the potential for informational interventions to correct these misperceptions and accelerate social change. Studies have shown that when people receive accurate information about societal attitudes, they are more likely to adjust their behaviors in ways that promote gender equality. This demonstrates the power of perception in shaping social norms and highlights the importance of challenging assumptions about gender roles.
Understanding these findings has been crucial in shaping my project. It has reinforced the importance of addressing gender narratives through storytelling and journalism, particularly in my chosen mediums of short stories and feature articles. By examining how gender norms are perceived and the impact of these perceptions on societal behavior, I can create work that challenges misconceptions and encourages more nuanced discussions about gender equality.
Target Audience Research
Google Forms Survey
As part of my research into the theme of cultural and social differences, particularly how these affect women from diverse backgrounds, I conducted a Google Forms survey to gather insights directly from people with a range of experiences. The survey aimed to explore themes such as privilege, cultural norms, societal expectations, and media representation. By analysing the responses, I was able to identify key patterns, themes, and suggestions that will help shape the direction of my project and ensure it resonates with my intended audience. Below will break down the findings, explain their significance, and highlight how they will inform my creative and journalistic work.
Google Forms was incredibly helpful for my research because it allowed me to collect diverse perspectives quickly and efficiently. By creating surveys with both multiple-choice and open-ended questions, I was able to gather detailed insights into how cultural and social differences shape women’s experiences. The platform’s simplicity made it easy to distribute the survey widely, ensuring responses from people with varied backgrounds. The data collection features also saved time and helped me identify patterns and themes that will directly inform my project.
Responses
Below are images of the results from my Google forms Survey, which is displayed via a Google spreadsheet.
References:
Polly Foster (2024) Exploring Cultural and Social Differences in Women’s Experiences. Google Forms survey. Conducted [November, 2024].
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfnyyvFlkxiaUaIp4Ck2VzTlOJ3ZJh3YHnaxCCjnP9q3ejFzA/viewform?usp=sf_link
Findings
Demographics
The survey responses indicate a mix of participants from diverse backgrounds, providing a variety of perspectives that enrich the research.
Respondents shared experiences and views shaped by their cultural, social, and economic environments.
Many respondents highlighted their unique experiences and how their upbringing influenced their views on women’s issues.
Understanding the demographic breakdown is crucial for my project because it ensures that my theme of cultural and social differences are explored in an authentic and inclusive way. It also helps tailor mystorytelling to resonate with diverse audiences while representing the variety of experiences women face worldwide.
Themes relating to women's experiences
Barriers in less privileged areas: Responses emphasized the challenges women face in marginalized communities, including limited education, lack of opportunities, and entrenched cultural norms that restrict agency.
Mental health: Many respondents mentioned the impact of societal expectations on women’s mental health, particularly in cultures where silence around these topics is prevalent.
Intersectionality: Race, class, and gender identity were mentioned as interconnected struggles that significantly shape women’s experiences.
These findings have allowed me to highlight the intersectionality of women’s issues in my work. By addressing the layered complexities of race, class, and privilege, my research and creative output feels more in-depth. I can also use these themes as focal points in my short story and feature article, showing how societal pressures and cultural expectations shape women’s lives differently.
Media Representation and Awareness
A significant number of respondents discussed the role of media in shaping cultural and social perceptions of women.
Many noted that media tends to either oversimplify or stereotype women’s struggles, with few nuanced portrayals of intersectional issues.
Respondents criticized the lack of authentic representation of women in mainstream media, noting how stereotypes and oversimplifications often dominate narratives.
There was a desire for content that portrays women’s stories with more complexity and realism, particularly stories of resilience, empowerment, and agency.
I think that this insight will guide the tone and style of my feature article and short story. I can now position my work as a corrective to these misrepresentations by creating well-rounded female characters and exploring issues that are often sidelined in mainstream storytelling. Additionally, this will help me appeal to an audience seeking deeper, more relatable narratives.
Cultural and Social Differences
A recurring observation was the difference in women’s agency depending on their socioeconomic status and cultural background.
Respondents emphasized how women from privileged areas often have more opportunities to assert their voice compared to women from marginalized communities.
These insights help to reinforce the central theme of my project: cultural and social differences among women. By grounding my research and writing in real-world examples from my survey, I can show the contrast between different experiences, making my work both relatable and thought-provoking.
Suggestions and Feedback
Many respondents expressed interest in seeing stories of empowerment and resilience, especially those that explore how women overcome societal pressures.
There was a strong push for narratives that address universal themes of strength and solidarity while still acknowledging cultural and social differences.
These suggestions have given me direction for the tone and content of my work. For my short story, I am thinking of focusing on a protagonist who navigates cultural barriers to assert her agency. For the feature article, I could delve into real-life examples of women who embody resilience and inspire change. By aligning my work with these suggestions, I am making sure that my project resonates with my target audience.
Reflection
The findings from my survey have been incredibly valuable for my research, helping me refine my focus on key themes such as privilege, intersectionality, mental health, and resilience. These responses have provided clarity, ensuring that my work remains meaningful and relatable while addressing the most pressing issues within my chosen theme. I also gained valuable insights into what my target audience wants to see in stories about women and cultural differences. Their preference for narratives of empowerment and a variety of representations has given me a clear direction for the tone and subject matter of my writing. Additionally, the survey revealed gaps in how women’s issues are represented in media, offering me an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to the discussion and ensure my work feels honest and informed. These findings have also influenced how I plan to structure my short story and feature article, particularly in creating complex, authentic characters and shaping a tone that resonates with readers. Finally, the survey has provided me with a roadmap for further research, highlighting themes and ideas I can expand upon through interviews or a deeper exploration of cultural contexts and underrepresented narratives.
Mediums and Forms Research
Trip to Oxford Brookes
One piece of primary mediums and forms research I conducted was during a trip to Oxford with my family. During this trip, we visited Oxford Brookes University, due to my interest in their Journalism course. I took this opportunity to conduct some research. During a talk about the course from a Journalism, print, and media lecturer, I decided to interview a student about the work they were doing, specifically writing feature articles. As I am including a feature as one of the mediums in my project, I thought this information would be interesting and helpful during my creative journey.
⬆️ Students I talked to/interviewed about writing feature articles
Interview Questions and Responses
Below I have included the questions I asked a student called Emma, and her responses:
What do you think makes a good feature article?
"Personally, when I am writing a feature I try to engage the reader's emotions or interests quickly and reward them for reading. Keeping in mind your audience is also key."
How do you identify your specific audience?
"I try to stick to something somewhat niche to write about - having a specific topic and sticking to it maintains engagement for a specific audience and keeps them interested"
Do you find news articles or feature articles more interesting to write?
"They both have their key differences, specifically when it comes to timing and language. I personally prefer to focus on a specific topic and zoom in on it, which is why feature writing is often something that piques my interest more."
If you had to give one piece of advice for a student writing a feature article, what would it be?
"A captivating story is one of the most important things to keep in mind. No one wants to read about something vague and uninteresting as it appeals to no one. Try to spark emotion in your piece and make sure you have conducted relevant information such as statistics and interviews to support your points."
Findings
During my trip to Oxford, I conducted primary research that significantly informed my understanding of feature articles, one of the mediums I am using for my project. At Oxford Brookes University, I interviewed a journalism student named Emma, whose insights provided valuable perspectives on writing feature articles.
Emma emphasized the importance of engaging the audience’s emotions and interests early on, recommending the use of specific, niche topics to maintain reader engagement. She highlighted that features differ from news articles in tone and timing, as features allow for a deeper exploration of topics. Her advice about crafting captivating stories and using relevant research, such as statistics and interviews, reinforced the need to combine emotional resonance with factual credibility. One particular insight that stood out was her advice to “spark emotion in your piece and ensure you’ve conducted relevant research, such as statistics and interviews, to support your points.” This has helped me recognize the importance of combining emotional storytelling with credible evidence to engage the reader fully.
Researching mediums and forms, like feature articles, has shown me how specific techniques, such as tailoring the content to a niche audience and structuring articles with a strong emotional hook, are critical to achieving a meaningful and impactful piece. This interview has reinforced that understanding the conventions and strengths of different formats allows me to use them effectively to communicate my project’s themes. For example, her emphasis on balancing emotional resonance with factual depth will guide me in crafting an engaging feature article that resonates with readers while staying informative and focused.
This research was incredibly helpful as it gave me practical tips to improve my feature writing, such as focusing on my audience and honing in on a specific, compelling topic. It also emphasized the need to balance storytelling with well-supported arguments, which I plan to apply to my project.
Elements of a Feature Article
This section focuses on my research into feature articles, which I conducted to deepen my understanding of this journalistic form. I explored the key elements that make a feature article engaging and effective, analysing structure, tone, and storytelling techniques used by established writers. My goal was to understand how feature articles balance factual reporting with narrative depth to captivate readers. By studying expert advice and well-regarded examples, I aimed to identify the techniques that make this form compelling and apply them to my own writing.
Below is a mind map that I created, focusing on the key elements of a feature article that I was already aware of from past lectures, and writing feature articles for projects in the past. Creating this was helpful when it came to remembering the key conventions and beginning my research.
Analysing published Work
In this section, I have analysed a range of feature articles and used the key elements and devices within them to help with the creative process of my own feature article.
The Guardian Feature Article
The Guardian Feature Article
This Guardian's article on the Kumbh Mela festival crowd crush effectively employs key feature article conventions to convey the tragedy’s impact. It begins with a compelling lead that contrasts the festival's initial joy with the unfolding chaos, immediately drawing the reader in. Vivid descriptions and eyewitness accounts add authenticity, helping to humanize the disaster. The article also provides essential background on the Kumbh Mela, explaining its cultural significance to offer context to international readers. Beyond recounting events, it delves into the possible causes and implications, analyzing the failures in crowd control and safety measures. By blending factual reporting with personal narratives and analytical depth, the article creates an engaging and informative piece that not only informs but also evokes empathy.
This feature article "The day we discovered our parents were Russian spies" effectively uses storytelling techniques to engage readers while providing in-depth reporting. It opens with a compelling lead, immediately immersing the audience in the dramatic revelation experienced by Tim and Alex Foley. By focusing on human interest, the article transforms an international espionage case into a deeply personal and emotional narrative, making the subject more relatable. The piece also incorporates direct quotes, allowing the Foley brothers to share their experiences in their own words, adding authenticity and emotional weight. Additionally, visual elements such as family photographs and official documents enhance the storytelling, giving readers a tangible connection to the events. Analysing these techniques has given me a clearer understanding of how to structure my own feature article. I can now recognise the importance of using a strong opening to hook the reader, incorporating personal perspectives to create emotional depth, and balancing factual reporting with engaging storytelling. I plan to apply these methods to ensure my feature article is both informative and compelling.
References:
Oxford Brookes University. (n.d.). It’s time to discover. [online] Available at: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/study/c/its-time-to-discover?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0ruyBhDuARIsANSZ3wqMYPw9ZMw5hnpMm4pWCTPl9IoGvKJPE-UV-hbKSom1F99UTLN1YVsaAsx8EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds [Accessed 6 December 2024].
Oxford Brookes University. (n.d.). Communication, Media, Journalism and Publishing. [online] Available at: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/study/subject-areas/communication-media-journalism-and-publishing [Accessed 6 December 2024].
Oxford Brookes University. (n.d.). Open Days and Events. [online] Available at: https://www.brookes.ac.uk/open-days [Accessed 6 December 2024].
Ellis-Petersen, H. and Levene, D. (2025). How joy turned to horror as Kumbh Mela festival crowd crush unfolded. [online] the Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jan/30/kumbh-mela-festival-crowd-crush-india [Accessed 31 Jan. 2025].
Walker, S. (2016). The day we discovered our parents were Russian spies. The Guardian. [online] 7 May. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/may/07/discovered-our-parents-were-russian-spies-tim-alex-foley.
Short Story Research
This section is research on short stories, that I conducted to strengthen my understanding of short story writing. I conducted research into the key elements that make a short story effective. My goal was to explore different techniques, structures, and styles used by established writers to create compelling narratives. By analysing expert opinions and well-regarded short stories, I aimed to identify the storytelling methods that resonate most with readers and apply them to my own work.
Below is a mind map that I created, focusing on the key elements of a short story that I was already aware of from past lectures, and writing short stories for projects in the past. Creating this was helpful when it came to remembering the key conventions and beginning my research.
What Makes A Great Short Story? - Charles E. May
I began the second part of my short story research by exploring an article by Charles E. May, which examines the craft of writing an effective short story through the lens of Mrs. Fox by Sarah Hall. My tutor recommended that I look into Sarah Hall as a short story writer, as her work is known for its depth, originality, and strong narrative structure. Given this guidance, I found May’s article to be a relevant and insightful source of information, offering a deeper understanding of what makes a short story impactful.
I approached this article with the intention of refreshing my knowledge of the key aspects of short story writing and gaining new insights into the techniques that create a compelling narrative. The analysis provided valuable perspectives on structure, language, and thematic depth, reinforcing my understanding of how a short story should engage its readers. Below, I have compiled the key elements and techniques that this article highlighted, which I will use to inform and refine my own writing.
In his analysis of Sarah Hall's "Mrs. Fox," Professor Charles E. May identifies several key elements that contribute to a compelling short story:
Poetic Use of Language: The story's "poetic use of language" and the "dexterity and originality" of its prose are highlighted as central to its uniqueness.
Metaphorical Depth: The narrative employs the classic motif of metamorphosis, using the transformation of a woman into a fox as a metaphor to explore themes such as the inaccessibility of the secret life of others and the primal reality beneath civilized life.
Juxtaposition of Themes: The story juxtaposes the primal and the civilized, suggesting that beneath the veneer of modern life lies a mythic, primal reality, with woman embodying that reality and man as an astonished observer.
These elements—innovative language, metaphors, and juxtaposition—are identified as contributing to the story's effectiveness and resonance.
Analysing Published Work
In this section, I have analysed a range of short stories and used the key elements and devices within them to help with the creative process of my own short story.
Charlotte Perkins Gilman - The Yellow Wallpaper
Shirley Jackson - The Lottery
Petina Gappah - The News of Her Death
In "The Yellow Wallpaper," Charlotte Perkins Gilman uses strong short story characteristics such as a central conflict centered on the protagonist's mental deterioration, which drives the plot. The character's internal struggles are vividly explored, making her experience the focal point of the story. The yellow wallpaper serves as a powerful symbol of her growing obsession and confinement.
The story's unpredictable ending leaves a lasting emotional impact, demonstrating Gilman’s skill in combining symbolism, psychological depth, and narrative tension to create a memorable, thought-provoking piece. This is something that I would like to replicate in my own short story writing, as I find the author's use of perspective and symbolism an effective way to portray a character and as I plan for my own short story to be very character-central, I admire these aspects and hope that I can convey these themes in my own writing.
Reading 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson' is a great example of short story conventions, using subtle tension, foreshadowing, and an unexpected twist to create a powerful and unsettling narrative. The story follows a seemingly ordinary town gathering for an annual lottery, only for the reader to discover that the "winner" is actually chosen for a brutal ritual sacrifice. One of the key conventions Jackson uses effectively is the economy of language—every word serves a purpose, building atmosphere or foreshadowing the twist. She also employs a single setting and a tight timeframe, keeping the focus on one event while gradually revealing crucial details. The story’s third-person objective narration creates a detached tone, making the horrific ending even more impactful as it unfolds without overt judgment or emotion. These elements show how short stories can be powerful despite their short length, a lesson I will apply when crafting my own work. Reading 'The Lottery' has influenced my approach to short story writing by showing me how tension can be built subtly and effectively. I plan to experiment with foreshadowing, introducing small details early on that hint at a larger revelation. Additionally, I want to explore a detached narrative style, allowing the reader to interpret events without heavy-handed explanations. Jackson’s use of an ordinary setting with an unsettling background is another technique I hope to incorporate, using familiar environments to contrast with darker themes and ideas.
By analysing 'The Lottery', I have gained a deeper appreciation for how structure, pacing, and atmosphere work together to create an impactful short story. These insights will guide me as I refine my own storytelling, ensuring that I can create a similarly immersive and thought-provoking narrative.
Petina Gappah’s The News of Her Death is a compelling short story that uses key conventions such as a single setting, and multiple perspectives to explore societal themes. Set in a Harare hair salon, the story unfolds through the gossip of various women discussing the death of an acquaintance, Kindness. This confined setting acts as a metaphor for broader social issues, allowing the reader to experience the dynamics of a close-knit community while gaining insight into themes such as identity, class, and the tension between tradition and modernity. Gappah’s use of multiple perspectives enriches the narrative, providing a layered view of the characters’ biases and societal expectations. Her balance between dialogue and exposition keeps the story engaging while subtly revealing deeper cultural commentary. Analysing this story has given me valuable tools to apply to my own short story writing. I want to experiment with creating an intimate, everyday setting that reflects wider societal issues, much like Gappah does with the salon. Additionally, I plan to incorporate multiple perspectives to present a deeper exploration of my themes, allowing different characters to offer conflicting viewpoints that shape the reader’s understanding. Finally, I aim to use showing and not telling techniques, using natural conversations to reveal character relationships and underlying tensions. By applying these techniques, I hope to craft a short story that is both immersive and thought-provoking.
Short Story Writer Research
For this part of my short story research, I aimed to explore a few different short story writers. My goal was to see if any had shared advice or writing tips for crafting this form, while also analysing the skills and techniques they used to make their stories effective. I specifically chose writers known for their short fiction to gain a deeper understanding of the medium. By studying their approaches, I hope to develop greater insight into the craft, allowing me to refine my own storytelling and create a stronger short story.
Stephen King
Stephen King is an American author, widely known for his horror novels, he has been crowned the "King of Horror".He has also explored other genres, among them suspense, crime, science-fiction, fantasy, and mystery. Though known primarily for his novels, he has written approximately 200 short stories, most of which have been published in collections.
Although my short story is a different theme than what Stephen King usually implements in his short stories, I decided that researching him would be beneficial to me as he has written numerous short stories over the years, which all contain key conventions, skills, and techniques. I watched a YouTube video called 'Stephen King and the Craft of Short Story Writing', in which King delves into the process and tips you need in order to create an effective and gripping short story.
His Advice
Read Extensively: King emphasizes the importance of reading a wide range of literature to understand different styles, structures, and storytelling techniques. This exposure helps writers develop their own voice and learn what works effectively in writing.
Write Regularly: He advises writers to establish a consistent writing routine, treating it with the same discipline as any other job. Regular practice hones one's skills and fosters creativity.
Embrace Rejection: King shares his own experiences with rejection and encourages writers to view it as a natural part of the writing journey. Persistence and resilience are crucial for growth and eventual success.
Focus on Storytelling: He stresses that the narrative should always take precedence over stylistic flourishes. Engaging stories with compelling characters captivate readers more than overly complex language or structures.
Be Authentic: King advises writers to stay true to their own voices and experiences, rather than trying to emulate others. Authenticity resonates with readers and lends credibility to the narrative.
Watching Stephen King discuss the craft of writing has given me valuable insights that I will directly apply to my short story. One of the most important takeaways for me was his emphasis on storytelling over complex language. He stresses that a compelling narrative and strong characters are more important than overly elaborate descriptions or stylistic flourishes. In my short story, I will ensure that the emotions, themes, and conflicts remain the focus rather than getting caught up in overly flowery language. This will help keep my writing concise, impactful, and immersive for the reader.
Another key piece of advice that stood out was writing regularly and treating it as a discipline. King highlights that waiting for inspiration can be limiting, and true improvement comes from consistency. As I develop my short story, I will set aside structured time for writing and revision, rather than just writing when I feel inspired. This will allow me to refine my work and ensure my narrative is well-paced and engaging.
His advice on reading extensively also made me think more critically about my approach. King believes that reading a variety of short stories helps writers understand different techniques and narrative structures. To strengthen my own short story, I will analyze how other writers build suspense, develop character arcs, and create immersive settings within a limited word count. This will help me experiment with new techniques and improve my overall storytelling.
Finally, his thoughts on embracing rejection were particularly motivating. Knowing that even a writer as successful as King faced multiple setbacks reminds me that revision and critique are essential parts of the writing process. I will apply this mindset to my short story by being open to feedback and rewriting as needed to make my work as strong as possible.
Anita Desai
Anita Desai is an Indian novelist and Emerita John E. Burchard Professor of Humanities at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology She has been shortlisted for the Booker Prize three times, and has written a variety of short stories throughout her lifetime.
I decided to research this author as she not only has produced several award-winning short stories, but she also has delved into themes such as cultural differences and female equality, which is something that I am also pursuing in my own writing. I particularly enjoyed a short story of hers called 'A devoted son', which explores the themes of family dynamics, duty, and the shifting power balance between generations.
In order to gather advice and techniques from this author, I read an article in which Anita describes her writing process, and the key elements she uses to create a short story.
Her Advice:
After reading the article "5 Writing Lessons from Anita Desai" on Writing Tips Oasis, I have gained valuable insights that I plan to incorporate into my short story.
One key lesson is to write because you love to write. Desai's passion for storytelling is evident in her extensive body of work, which she pursued without aspirations for fame or fortune. This reminds me to focus on the joy of writing itself, allowing genuine enthusiasm to drive my creative process.
Another important takeaway is the emphasis on realism in storytelling. Desai's characters often navigate real-life situations, reflecting the complexities of human experience. In my short story, I aim to create authentic characters and scenarios that resonate with readers, even if they portray life's inherent challenges.
The article also highlights the use of great settings and imagery. Desai transforms simple narratives into memorable journeys through vivid descriptions and evocative imagery. I plan to enrich my story by crafting detailed settings that immerse readers and enhance the emotional impact of the narrative.
Furthermore, Desai's willingness to explore diverse themes and settings encourages me to push beyond my comfort zone. Her stories range from middle-class life in Delhi to tales of self-discovery in Mexico. Inspired by this, I intend to experiment with different perspectives and environments in my writing to add depth and variety.
Lastly, the lesson to try several writing areas resonates with me. Desai's versatility across short stories, novels, and children's books demonstrates the importance of not restricting one's creativity. I plan to explore various formats and genres to discover new ways of expressing my ideas and reaching a broader audience.
In summary, Anita Desai's writing principles—passion-driven storytelling, realism, vivid imagery, thematic exploration, and versatility—provide a guide that I will apply to enhance the authenticity and richness of my short story.
References:
TSS Publishing (2017). What Makes a Great Short Story? (Sarah Hall’s ‘Mrs Fox’) - TSS Publishing. [online] TSS Publishing. Available at: https://theshortstory.co.uk/professor-charles-e-may-what-makes-a-great-short-story-no-6-sarah-halls-mrs-fox/.
Gilman, C.P. (1892). The Yellow Wallpaper. The New England Magazine.
Jackson, S. (1948). The Lottery. The New Yorker.
A Personal Anthology. (2017). ‘The News of Her Death’ by Petina Gappah. [online] Available at: https://apersonalanthology.com/2017/10/13/the-news-of-her-death-by-petina-gappah/ [Accessed 29 Jan. 2025].
Bibliostar.TV (2013). Stephen King on the Craft of Short Story Writing. YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1qItKJ8RiQ.
Rajan, C. (2014). 5 Writing Lessons from Anita Desai - Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books. [online] Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books. Available at: https://writingtipsoasis.com/5-writing-lessons-from-anita-desai/ [Accessed 30 Jan. 2025].
Primary Research
Interviewing People
As part of my research on cultural and social differences, I interviewed my friend Natalia, who was born in Serbia but raised in the UK. Through this conversation, I aimed to understand how navigating two cultures has shaped her identity, experiences, and sense of belonging.
Q: What was it like growing up in the UK with Serbian heritage?
Natalia: It was definitely a mix of experiences. At home, I was raised with Serbian traditions—speaking the language, celebrating Serbian holidays, and eating traditional food. But outside of that, I had to adapt to British culture, which sometimes made me feel like I was balancing two different identities. There were times when I felt like I didn’t fully belong in either place.
Q: Did you ever feel different from your peers because of your cultural background?
Natalia: Definitely. When I was younger, I remember feeling self-conscious about bringing Serbian food to school because it wasn’t what other kids were eating. I also had to explain my name a lot, and some people found it difficult to pronounce. Small things like that made me more aware that I wasn’t exactly the same as everyone else, even though I grew up here.
Q: How do you think growing up between two cultures has affected your sense of identity?
Natalia: I think for a long time, I felt like I had to pick one identity over the other, and I struggled with feeling “not Serbian enough” or “not British enough.” But as I got older, I started to appreciate that I don’t have to choose—I can embrace both. My Serbian heritage is a huge part of who I am, but so is growing up in the UK. Now, I feel proud of being able to navigate both cultures.
Q: Have you ever faced any cultural misunderstandings or stereotypes?
Natalia: Yes, a few times. Some people assume that because I was born in Serbia, I must have had a completely different upbringing or that I don’t speak English fluently. On the other hand, when I visit Serbia, some people think I’m “too British” because I don’t act or speak exactly like a native Serbian. It’s like I’m caught between two places, but I’ve learned to laugh it off and embrace the uniqueness of my background.
Q: What do you think are the biggest advantages and challenges of being raised in a different culture from where you were born?
Natalia: The biggest advantage is that I have a broader perspective—I understand different cultures, languages, and ways of life, which I think makes me more open-minded. I also love being bilingual and having a connection to two places. The challenge, though, is that it can sometimes feel isolating, like you don’t completely fit in anywhere. But I wouldn’t change it—I think it’s made me more adaptable and appreciative of both sides of my identity.
Q: If you could give advice to someone growing up in a culture different from their heritage, what would it be?
Natalia: I would say don’t feel pressured to fit into just one identity. You don’t have to choose between cultures—you can celebrate and embrace both. It’s okay to feel different sometimes, but remember that your unique background is something to be proud of. Also, connecting with others who have similar experiences can be really helpful in feeling understood.
⬆️ A photo of Me and Natalia
My interview with Natalia provided key insights into the challenges of growing up between two cultures, particularly the struggle of feeling “in-between” and not fully belonging to either. This idea of cultural duality will be central to my project, as it highlights the emotional and social complexities of identity.
Natalia’s experiences with cultural differences in daily life—such as feeling self-conscious about Serbian food at school or being seen as “too British” in Serbia—show how small moments shape a person’s self-perception. This has inspired me to explore subtle but impactful experiences in my storytelling. Her discussion of stereotypes and external assumptions also reinforced the idea that identity is fluid and shaped by both personal experience and societal expectations, which I want to reflect in my work.
Most importantly, Natalia’s positive outlook—learning to embrace both cultures rather than feeling pressured to choose—has encouraged me to incorporate themes of resilience and self-acceptance. This interview has deepened my understanding of cultural and social differences, which will help me create more authentic characters and narratives in my project.
Tutor Feedback
Greg's feedback
"Evaristo’s ability to blend multiple narratives and perspectives inspired my decision to use a short story as one of my mediums
Is this a collection of short stories or a novel? Multiple narrative for a short story is very tricky - usually a short story is from one perspective, a limited amount of characters, and explores a brief period of time.
Short Story Research
which short stories have you read and analysed?
what are the main elements of the short story?
Do any of them have a dual narrative?
you seemed to have done the one thing I told all student not to: focus too much on the themes and not enough on the mediums."
