The pre-apocalyptic zombie story starts before the outbreak. Let’s talk about the pre– and post-apocalyptic methods for starting a zombie story. So let’s zoom in on the first and third options. It’s hard to increase tension and build to a climax when you start off with “fireworks.” But for a novel, that option could create structural problems. You might pull it off with a shorty story. The middle of the three options - starting your story as the outbreak is unfolding - can be done, but it’s more challenging. Those are generally the best options from a structural and pacing standpoint. Most zombie stories start with either the “pre” or “post” apocalyptic model above. The reader is thrust into a world where civilization has already collapsed. Post-apocalypse - Last, but not least, you can start a zombie novel or story after the outbreak.This method is rare, and we’ll talk about the reasons why in a moment. Mid-apocalypse - You could also start your story as the outbreak is unfolding … in the middle of the “action,” so to speak.But terror lurks ahead, just around the bend. Your characters are going through their normal, everyday routines. Pre-apocalypse - You could start your story before the zombie outbreak takes place.You basically have three starter options: You have to figure out when your zombie story starts, relative to the outbreak itself. One of the first things you need to consider is your timeline. As a result, it’s the writer who makes the rules and sets the stage. Most of these stories fall into the horror genre, and some dabble with science fiction or even fantasy. Starting Your Story Before or After the OutbreakĪs a writer, you have endless ways to start your zombie story. Elsewhere on the site, you’ll find a list of zombie-related story ideas along with a few strategies for writing good fiction. Want more? This article is part of an ongoing series for writers. So here you go, a fresh batch of story starters for speculative fiction writers. And one question in particular rises to the top: How do you actually start a zombie apocalypse story or novel? That article also generated quite a few questions and comments from readers. I didn’t expect that, but it’s fun to watch. It’s now the most popular article on this blog, in terms of traffic and readership. A while back, I wrote an article that offered zombie story ideas for writers of horror and speculative fiction.
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