drabble

A drabble is a short work of fiction, usually around 100 words and commonly defined as exactly 100 words. It is intended to be read in a single sitting and to convey a moment of narrative—often a scene, encounter, or twist—without extensive setup or exposition. The form is associated with microfiction and has been especially popular in science fiction and fan-fiction communities, though it appears in broader literary contexts as well. The term’s origin is uncertain; the practice emerged in online writing circles and fanzines during the 1990s and spread through mailing lists, blogs, and forums. The constraints of a strict word count encourage precise word choice, deliberate pacing, and an efficient narrative arc, typically focusing on a single incident, revelation, or turning point. Drabbles may be posted as standalone pieces or grouped in themed collections, and many writers use prompts to generate material. Related forms include shorter and longer micro-fictions, such as 50- and 200-word pieces, as well as flash fiction. Critics view drabbles as exercises in linguistic economy and form-conscious storytelling; supporters regard them as accessible entry points for writers to practice narrative craft. Because publishers and communities differ on exact word counts, some venues accept 90–110 words, but exact-100-word drabbles remain the canonical standard in many online communities.