short and sweet

I've always liked short stories--a good thing, considering the the number read in English class.

Moreover, the short story is a form of literature just as significant as a novel, despite its brevity. A short story is, as its name suggests, brief in duration, but is as potentially enriching as a novel. Obviously not a full course meal, the short story is more like a piece of hard candy-- shorter-lasting but sweet all the same.

Of course, the length of a short story is much more comforting than that of a novel. But this form of prose offers much more than its less time-consuming nature. As a result of its brevity, a short story provides more simplicity, even in the conveyance of a complex theme. More focused on a single plot, setting, and message, short stories are ideal for a more extensive study of literary themes, ideas, and styles of varying authors, as readers can more quickly delve into a wider breadth of short story literature. Further, more intensive focus can be dedicated to the singularity of the story without the distracting elements of some novels.

As exhibited by many of the short stories already examined in class, these brief literary snapshots can offer as much power as any novel. "The Destructors" produced views on the destructive imprint of war on post-war generations. "The Child by Tiger" commented on the puzzling duality of good and evil in human nature. "How Far She Went" explores the extent of pride, guilt, and admiration. Heavy subjects are no obstruction for the short story.

Novels are movies. Short stories are snapshots-- photographs that are all the same worthy of a good exploration.