Storytelling on Social Media: The Rise of Micro-Narratives

Abstract

In the digital age, social media has revolutionized storytelling, giving rise to micro-narratives—short, impactful stories crafted for quick consumption and sharing. This research examines the evolution of micro-narratives across platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, where brevity and visual appeal are central to audience engagement. The study explores the narrative techniques employed in these stories, including the use of images, hashtags, and minimal text, to convey complex ideas in condensed formats. It also investigates the implications of micro-narratives for traditional storytelling, questioning whether this shift represents a dilution of narrative depth or an adaptation to modern communication demands. Additionally, the research considers the role of micro-narratives in shaping cultural and social discourse, particularly in the context of viral trends and social movements. Through a combination of content analysis and case studies, the paper provides insights into how micro-narratives influence public perception, foster community engagement, and reflect broader societal shifts.