The Sun Set in the East . . .

. . . was the shortest science fiction story ever written.

And Hemingway once wrote a story in just six words ("For sale: baby shoes, never worn.") which is said to have been called his best work.

Now, Wired magazine asked science fiction, fantasy and horror writers from the realms of books, TV, movies and games to take a shot themselves.

The brief was to write a story of six words.  Here are some of the best (in Mark’s opinion):

The baby’s blood type? Human, mostly.
– Orson Scott Card

Heaven falls. Details at eleven.
– Robert Jordan

Bush told the truth. Hell froze.
– William Gibson

His penis snapped off; he’s pregnant!
– Rudy Rucker

Apparently only Arthur C. Clarke didn’t manage it refusing to curb his ten word masterpiece:

"God said, ‘Cancel Program GENESIS.’ The universe ceased to exist."

Well hey, Arthur, surely this works in six:

"God: ‘Cancel Program GENESIS.’  Universe ceases."

Blimey, you can’t teach these old guys anything new. 

By Sue Abbott (contentious bits by Mark Brake)