Overview
Short stories are compact works of fiction that focus on a single idea, moment, or character development. Though brief, they demand precision and artistry, often leaving powerful impressions through tone, structure, and theme. The form became especially popular in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Key Characteristics of Short Stories
- Conciseness: Every sentence matters—no room for subplots or tangents.
- Single Effect: Often aims to evoke a particular emotion, idea, or realization.
- Character Focus: Centers on one or two characters, capturing defining moments or turning points.
- Compressed Plot: Clear beginning, middle, and end—sometimes implied rather than explicit.
- Open Endings: Frequently leaves resolution or meaning open to interpretation.
Notable Authors and Works
- Katherine Mansfield – The Garden Party
- James Joyce – Araby from Dubliners
- D.H. Lawrence – The Rocking-Horse Winner
- Virginia Woolf – Kew Gardens
- Angela Carter – The Bloody Chamber
- Zadie Smith – The Embassy of Cambodia
Quick Tip
Pay attention to what’s unsaid. Short stories often rely on subtext, atmosphere, and symbolism to convey meaning beyond the literal plot.