Some Tips from Twitter@Advice to Writers

Characteristics of a good story:

• A single theme, clearly defined
• A well developed plot
• Style: vivid word pictures, pleasing sounds and rhythm
• Characterization
• Faithful to source
• Dramatic appeal
• Appropriateness to listeners

Adapting to our audiences:

1. Take the story as close to them as you can.
2. Keep it brief and simple
3. Stimulate their senses so they feel, smell, touch and listen and see vivid pictures.
4. Describe the characters and settings, and help them sympathize with the character’s feelings.
5. Aim your story at the less experienced when telling to a mixed audience

Read more: http://noisebetweenstations.com/personal/weblogs/?p=2211#ixzz1CHCE6ev0