Stories and language hold a strong power over how we interpret and understand the world. The influence of the written word and its ability to change history shows up time and time again. America’s Declaration of Independence from the monarchy rule, the Bible, The New York Times, and even Twitter are all examples of how impactful words can be.

As the world progresses and the average human’s attention span declines, lengthy stories and articles aren’t as well-received as shorter stories and image driven articles are. That means that writers must work even harder to capture the attention of their audience. For shorter stories to have a strong impact, it is necessary that every word chosen holds weighty meaning. An example of the strength behind word choice is that of the six-word story.

Rumor has it that Ernest Hemingway won a bet by writing (and consequently, inventing) the six-word story:

“For sale: baby shoes. Never worn.”

Without giving any context, background, or details, Hemingway created a story that can’t help but affect the reader. Each word, punctuation and capitalization choice, works together to induce an emotionally driven response. Kind of like the written version of a photograph.

The six-word story has become a common writing exercise, challenging writers to create their own succinct and clever stories. Many online communities share and contribute to collecting original stories and sharing them. The 2006 Six Word Memoirs project allows site visitors to create their own story with the help of prompts and guidelines.

Here are some of the most chilling and emotionally charged stories found online.

Sorry soldier. Shoes sold in pairs.

T.H.C., L.S.D., D.U.I., C.P.R., D.O.A., R.I.P.

Wrong number, says a familiar voice.

“Joining the President is her wife…”

Voyager still transmitted but Earth didn’t.

Introduced myself to Mom again today.

I met my soulmate. She didn’t.

“Jumped. And then changed my mind.”

Born a twin. Graduated only child.

What’s your return policy on rings?

“Siri, delete Mom from my contacts.”

She loved vodka more than life.

One bullet is a lifetime supply.

We’re lying in bed. She’s lying.

NIGHTCLUB CLOSED. Come back tomorrow morning.

He’s more famous dead than alive.

"Freeze!" "I'm just.." BANG!

The bag was full of crumbs.

For more six-word stories check out this archive