How To Explain a Moral In a Short Story
Learn how to put life lessons into short stories in a simple, interesting way. This easy guide shows you how to explain a moral in a short story just like famous writers do.
73% of readers believe that a short story with a clear moral leaves a stronger impression and is more memorable.
Imagine that you’re reading a story that sticks with you long after you’ve turned the last page. That’s often because of a moral in the story.
Like, a writer says "it's a bright night," he'd describe how moonlight sparkles on a piece of broken glass. This way, the story makes you think and feel, and the lesson sticks in your mind.
I’ve found that when I read stories like this, they often make me reflect on my own actions and beliefs.
So, read this full guide and know more about how you can explain a moral in a short story in a much better way!
What is a moral in a story?
A moral in a story is the important lesson the writer wants to share with the reader. The purpose of a moral is to teach something valuable, like being honest or kind.
It helps readers understand important ideas and think about how they will use these lessons in their own lives. A moral is often shown through what happens to the characters in the story rather than being told directly.
For example, if a story shows a character being rewarded for being honest, the moral might be that honesty is important.
How to write the moral of the story?
Writing a morality story is a great way to share important life lessons and values. I often choose to write these stories because they help teach meaningful messages in an engaging way.
By using characters, settings, and plots to show right and wrong, the lessons become clear and relatable, rather than just being stated directly.
These stories can also offer guidance during confusing times. When characters face ethical dilemmas, readers will see different ways to handle their own challenges, which helps them feel less alone.
I've found that watching characters handle tough situations can offer helpful insights and support.
Writing morality stories also encourages critical thinking. Readers analyze characters' actions and motivations, developing skills for thoughtful decision-making.
Moreover, these stories bring people together through shared values like compassion and justice, reminding us of our common humanity despite our differences.
How do I write a morality story?
I create an impactful moral story by following some key steps that ensure readers truly connect with the characters and lessons. From my experience, these 9 steps will also help you to write a morality story:
1. Write story and explain the message clearly
When I write a moral tale, my goal is always to make the message clear. First, I decide on the lesson I want to teach, like honesty, kindness, or determination.
For example, I might choose to say that "Kindness can brighten someone's day." I then write this lesson in 1-2 simple sentences so it’s easy for readers to remember. Next, I make sure the lesson fits well with the story's plot and characters.
If I’m teaching "kindness matters," my main character should show kindness in a small way that makes a big difference. This way, the story supports the message, and readers understand it better.
2. Explain points thoroughly
In the second step, I find it essential to thoroughly explain the reasons behind my characters' choices. This approach helps build reader understanding and connection to the moral message.
For example, in one of my stories, I had a character named Jamal who cheats on a test. Instead of simply stating, "Cheating is wrong," I looked into Jamal’s motivations. I described how he felt pressured by his peers to share answers because he wanted their acceptance. I showed that even though peer pressure is real, it’s not a good excuse for cheating.
I also explored the consequences of Jamal’s decision. I illustrated how Emilia, who had studied hard, failed the exam while Jamal passed unfairly. By showing these results, readers will see why cheating is unethical more clearly.
By showing what characters like Jamal and Emilia go through, I help readers understand the moral about integrity and honesty. Realistic details make the story's message more relatable and memorable.
3. Connect more to the story's themes and overall plot
When writing a morality story in the third step, connecting the moral to the story's themes and plot is crucial.
For example, it's important not to sound preachy. Morals can seem forced if they don’t fit the characters or the overall narrative.
Take my own experience with a story about Jada, a girl who moves across the country after her dad loses his job. The themes in the story are friendship, hardship, and perseverance.
Jada initially struggles to make new friends and feels isolated. Instead of having her bitterly adhere to her old life, I showed Jada finding courage to connect with her new classmates. Their kindness helps her adjust and highlights the power of friendship during tough times.
By blending the moral into Jada’s journey and the story's themes, the lesson about making connections during life changes felt natural and powerful. It wasn’t just a random lecture on "being nice."
4. Add feelings and personal thoughts to my writing
Adding feelings and personal thoughts in the ethical story help transform characters from mere “placeholders” into real, relatable individuals. I've found that sharing personal experiences makes this process easier.
For example, Terry is facing a tough exam. Instead of simply stating "Terry cheated," I showed his inner struggle: “Terry’s heart raced as the timer ticked down. Panic made his thoughts swirl.
He’d always had trouble with tests, and failing this one felt like it would ruin his college dreams. Maybe just a quick glance at someone else's answers wouldn’t be so bad. He copied the answers before regret could catch up.”
This approach gives readers a glimpse into Terry’s emotions and decision-making process. It helps them understand why he made his choice, even if they don't agree with it. By letting characters’ inner dialogues shine, make their choices more impactful and relatable.
5. Tell a moral story from different viewpoints
In my experience of writing moral stories, I've found that showing various viewpoints really deepens the story.
For example, let’s consider a story where Emma, a talented athlete, starts using steroids because her father wants her to win a scholarship.
I started by showing Emma’s excitement and her desire to make her dad proud. Then, I included her friend Luis’s perspective; he feels disappointed and conflicted when he finds out Emma is cheating. Also, I depicted the coach’s pride in Emma’s achievements, unaware of her dishonesty.
Each perspective adds insight: Emma’s family pressure, Luis’s disappointment, and the coach’s ignorance, these are the story’s moral complexity.
It shows how Emma’s choices affect not just her own life but also the lives of others. This helps them see that the moral lesson has a wider impact and makes them think about how decisions will influence many people.
6. Explain why it's good to read story through its morals
In morality stories, it’s crucial to help readers grasp the importance of the lessons. Well! Connecting the story’s morals to real-life benefits will be powerful.
For example, consider a story about Mrs. Chang, a widow who finds relief by volunteering. Initially, she is overwhelmed with grief, crying daily for her lost husband. As she comforts children in the hospital, she starts to see that her love and care can still make a difference.
To make the moral clear, I explain how Mrs. Chang’s journey mirrors a valuable lesson: “Like Mrs. Chang discovered, helping others during tough times will bring new purpose and joy into your life.
Her acts of kindness not only lifted the spirits of the children but also healed her own heart. When you face sorrow, find ways to serve others. It’s a path to emotional recovery and renewed meaning.”
7. Finish the story with readers in mind and keep them simple
From my experience, the best way to conclude an ethical story is by connecting the lesson to what readers experience in their daily lives.
For example, if I wrote a story about an entrepreneur named Will who betrayed his business partner for quick gains but ended up losing everything, I would wrap it up by addressing the readers directly.
I’d say something like, "If you’re tempted to cut corners like Will did, remember that making ethical choices is more valuable in the long run. It might seem tempting to cheat to get ahead, but honesty and trust are what really matter. Your friends and partners deserve your genuine care, not deception."
By using straightforward and relatable language, I’ve found that readers are more likely to understand and apply the moral to their own lives. This approach helps make the story’s lesson both practical and meaningful.
8. Think about what people expect in different types of stories
When writing lesson stories, it's important to consider what readers expect from different types of stories. From my own experience, I've found that modifying your approach can make a big difference.
For example, in children's fables, I focus on clearly stating the moral through the characters’ actions and dialogue.
The animals in Aesop’s classic tales show clear lessons about kindness and hard work, which helps kids easily understand the messages.
In contrast, when writing for teens or in literary fiction, I use more subtle approaches. I create moral messages through symbolism, irony, and complex character development. This allows readers to connect emotionally and reflect on the deeper meanings.
9. Be direct and keep it natural when explaining the points
In a moral story, share lessons without sounding too preachy. In my view, it’s all about finding the right balance. Instead of forcing a lesson, let it naturally come out through the story and characters.
For example, in one of my stories, Jenny learns the harm of gossiping after it damages her friendship with Alexis. I made sure the lesson was clear without interrupting the story. Jenny’s feelings helped show the moral in a way that felt real, making it more meaningful for readers.
Want to write a perfect moral story? A story generator will help you to create a story that gives a clear and great lesson. This tool will generate stories of any length and creativity level in just a few clicks.
Final thoughts
Writing moral stories helps me share valuable lessons in an interesting and engaging way. I focus on clear messages, relatable characters, and connecting the moral to broader themes.
It’s important to explain why the lesson matters, using simple language and examples that resonate. I’ve found that a well-created moral story will guide, inspire, and bring people together.
I believe that our words have the power to make a difference, and when done right, these stories will leave a lasting impact on someone's life. So, start creating your own moral stories today and inspire others with your words!
Frequently asked questions
1. What is a moral in a short story?
A moral in a short story is the important lesson or message that the writer wants to share. It’s often shown through the characters’ experiences and the story’s events rather than being stated directly.
2. How do I find the moral of a story?
To find the moral of a story, look at the characters’ actions and the outcomes of their decisions. The moral is often revealed through how the characters learn from their experiences and what happens by the end.
3. How can I write a moral story that engages readers?
To write a moral story that engages readers, create interesting characters and a compelling plot. Show the lesson through the characters’ choices and the consequences they face, making the moral resonate with your audience.
Relevant guides
- How to Write a Story about Yourself
- How to Improve Story Writing
- 11 Simple Ways to Write Inspirational Stories
