The Four Fellinis: Short stories

During my creative writing classes at UCLA, my professor introduced us to a concept called 'The Four Fellinis'.

A homage to the iconic director Federico Fellini, these were said to be the wellsprings from which every compelling tale sprang. The most captivating narratives, he argued, masterfully include all four elements together.

First, there were the tales carved from our memories and experiences.

Second, are the stories borrowed from others, those we'd inadvertently heard, read, or learned.

Third, the visions rooted in our dreams, the futures we secretly yearned for, the best-case scenario.

And lastly, the chilling accounts shaped by our darkest fears and apprehensions, our worst nightmares.

"With these four sources at your fingertips," he assured us, "one can't help but land on a true story."