Modern Definition of a Short Story:
* Concise and Focused: A short story is a brief work of fiction, usually ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand words. It focuses on a single, well-defined plot and theme.
* Complete Narrative: It has a beginning, a rising action, a climax, a falling action, and a resolution. It tells a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end, even if it's condensed.
* Limited Characters: Short stories often feature a small cast of characters, allowing for a more intimate portrayal of their development and motivations.
* Single Setting: The story typically takes place in a single location or a limited number of settings, contributing to a sense of unity and focus.
* Themes and Symbols: Short stories often explore a central theme or idea, often conveyed through symbolism or metaphorical language.
* Emotional Impact: Aiming to create a lasting impression on the reader, short stories often leave readers with a sense of reflection, understanding, or emotional resonance.
Distinguishing from Other Genres:
* Novella: Longer than a short story, a novella is a work of fiction between a short story and a novel, typically between 17,500 and 40,000 words.
* Flash Fiction: Even shorter than a short story, flash fiction is a micro-genre of fiction typically under 1,000 words, often even shorter.
* Novel: A novel is a much longer work of fiction, typically over 40,000 words, with a complex plot, multiple characters, and settings.
Ultimately, the definition of a short story can be fluid and depends on the individual author's interpretation. However, the above elements provide a helpful framework for understanding the essential qualities that make a short story unique.