Interesting Characters and Surprise Endings

Short story writing tips from prize-winning author, Claire Moffett

One of my clients since 2019, writer Claire Moffett chats with me about her love of short stories and what it feels like to see her name - and stories - in print. A finalist in The Sunday Post Short Story Competition in 2023, she won second place this year [2025] with her page-turning tale: 'The Lying, The Snitch and The Wardrobe'.

How did it feel to have another story published? Do you now feel that you can call yourself a writer?

I do. Most of the time. It felt surreal and amazing to actually see the story published in a Sunday newspaper that I grew up with. It was a big buzz. It was unexpected and it's given me lots of confidence to carry on writing. I felt validated. I finally feel I'm good enough.

Have you always wanted to write?

Yes, but I didn't know where to start. I never knew how to begin or what to write.

What made you focus on short stories?

The exercises we did in your group classes. Also, when I began, short stories seemed more manageable than starting a big project. I could focus on every line - I'm a massive editor - and I could put into practice all the different techniques we learn every week.

What are the essential elements of a short story?

Beautiful writing and a very interesting character. When you read a short story you want to be drawn in straightaway and then kept in the story.

Which short story writers do you enjoy reading?

Alice Munro and Tessa Hadley. One of my favourite short stories is 'The Husband Stitch' by Carmen Maria Machado, which inspired me to work on unexpected endings. And J.D. Salinger, particularly for his brilliant dialogue.

What are you going to write next?

I'm thinking about putting together a short story collection but I have also started a novel. I would like to try and write something where I am not constrained by the word count.

What advice do you have for anyone wanting to write?

Take your classes. If it wasn't for you, I'd never have started writing short stories. You need the guidance, support and feedback from other people and also the variety of topics covered in a regular class because each week you build on your knowledge and skills. I'd also say just pick up a pen and write, even if you don't know where it's going, which is what I've done. Certainly in all my short stories, I've never known where they're going until they're finished. I go on the journey with the characters I create.

Do you have any tips for competition entrants?

Try to read previous winning entries to see what a particular competition is looking for. If the judges are the same, see what they like and the styles and genres that have won. Also know the audience of the competition. Who's going to read your story?

What does writing mean to you?

It's what I feel like I should be doing. When I write it takes me away from everything. I'm quite an impatient person but when I write I slave over every word and I don't mind doing that. I love doing that.