nanofiction

Nanofiction is a form of ultra-short narrative prose characterized by extreme conciseness. Definitions vary, but most describe nanofiction as a complete or suggestive story told in a very small number of words, commonly under 100, with some practitioners working within even tighter limits.

Origin and development: Nanofiction grew out of the broader microfiction and flash fiction movements, which gained visibility through online magazines, zines, and writing communities in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The form is closely related to, though distinct from, the traditional six-word story, a related tradition that remains influential in discussions of ultra-short fiction.

Form and techniques: Nanofiction often relies on precise diction, image-driven scenes, and a twist, ambiguity, or pivot that reframes the moment. It commonly presents a single scene, moment, or perception rather than a full plotted arc. Writers frequently use constraints such as word limits, syllable counts, or thematic prompts to guide composition, emphasizing economy of language and the reader’s interpretive role.

Publication and reception: Nanofiction appears in online literary journals, magazines, and anthology projects dedicated to micro-fiction. In education and creative-writing communities, it is used to teach economy of language and narrative craft. Critics note that ultra-short forms demand radical compression and can verge on gimmick if not carefully executed, but supporters value their precision, immediacy, and portability.

See also: microfiction, flash fiction, short short story.