Subject
Short story Books
Best books
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Studying the short-story Sixteen short-story classics with introductions, notes and a new laboratory study method for individual reading and use in colleges and schools.
"Studying the Short-Story" by J. Berg Esenwein is an educational guide focused on analyzing and appreciating short stories, likely written in the early 20th century. The book comprises sixteen classic short stories, accompanied by introductions, notes, and a laboratory study method tailored for individual reading or classroom use. It aims to foster a deeper understanding of the short story as a literary form, discussing various types and what makes them impactful. The opening portion of the work introduces the concept of studying short stories by outlining the structure and purpose of the book. Esenwein highlights the progression of the short story form over centuries, mentioning the historical context and evolution from ancient tales to the modern short story. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with select stories and provides tools for analysis, including critical questions for reflection. The narrative sets up a framework for exploring different genres within the short story, aiming to cultivate a comprehensive literary skill set among both students and amateur writers.
Seymour Cunningham Chunn
Plotting the short story : $b a practical exposition of germ-plots, what they are and where to find them : the structure and development of the plot; and the relation of the plot to the story
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The stories editors buy and why
“The stories editors buy and why” by Jean Wick is an anthology and editors’ market guide written in the early 20th century. It gathers notable American magazine short stories alongside candid editor statements about why those stories were purchased, giving practical insight into taste, technique, and the varied needs of different publications. The opening of the volume first presents a prefatory note that champions the American short story and details how editors shape markets, what different magazines seek, how technique flexes to subject and outlet, and how agents can aid writers (including a defense of agents from an editor’s letter). It then begins with Marie Van Vorst’s “The Week-End Guest,” set amid a Long Island society wedding where a decorated aviator’s open infatuation with the hostess collides with a missing-cash incident involving a pigskin purse, a midnight confrontation, and a later revelation about the stepson’s blackmail troubles that reframes earlier suspicions. At the start of the next selection, Samuel A. Derieux’s “The Terrible Charge Against Jeff Potter,” an old swamp-wise loafer is banished from a store, the store burns that night, and he’s accused; his lonely night rescuing cattle, a mysterious car in the woods, and his arrest lead to a trial where his gentle purpose—carving and staining an Indian doll for a child who trusts him—emerges as his quiet defense.
N. Bryllion (Nathan Bryllion) Fagin
Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade?
"Short Story-Writing: An Art or a Trade?" by N. Bryllion Fagin is a guidebook on short story writing, written in the early 20th century. The text explores the craft of storytelling, focusing on the distinction between treating writing as an art form or a marketable skill. Fagin discusses the implications of commercialism in writing and critiques standardized methods of teaching that prioritize sellable content over genuine expression. The opening of the book sets a reflective tone as Fagin delves into his own experiences as a teacher in the "Technique of Short Story-Writing." He contemplates the significance of every story, which he views as living entities shaped by their creators. He articulates his inner conflict regarding the educational practices that mold aspiring writers into conformists, adhering to market demands rather than exploring their unique voices. Through this lens, Fagin critiques the writing industry’s tendency to promote formulaic storytelling, illustrating how it can hinder authentic literary expression and reduce the quality of the short story form.
Charles Raymond Barrett
Short story writing : $b a practical treatise on the art of the short story
"Short Story Writing: A Practical Treatise on the Art of the Short Story" by Charles Raymond Barrett is a guidebook on the craft of short story writing, likely written in the late 19th century. The text is designed to assist novice writers in understanding the principles and techniques that govern short story creation, elaborating on aspects such as plot, character development, and narrative style. Barrett's work draws insights from the masters of the short story genre, intending to provide clear rules and examples to help aspiring authors navigate the complexities of their artistic endeavors. The opening of the book begins with Barrett outlining his intentions and approach to writing about short stories. In the preface, he expresses that the book serves as a collection of guidelines derived from his study of successful short story writers alongside the analysis of amateur attempts. He emphasizes the importance of hard work and dedication in writing, while cautioning novices against the common pitfalls that lead to failure. The introduction further contextualizes the short story within the broader literary landscape, identifying important historical influences on the genre and laying the groundwork for the subsequent chapters, which will tackle specific elements such as plot construction and character portrayal.
Lewis Worthington Smith
The Writing of the Short Story
"The Writing of the Short Story" by Lewis Worthington Smith is a guidebook on narrative composition written in the early 20th century. This instructional text focuses on the art of crafting short stories, emphasizing the essential elements that contribute to a compelling narrative, such as character, incident, description, and mood. In this book, Smith explores the fundamental components of a successful short story, breaking down narrative forms and discussing the importance of plot and character development. He highlights how a coherent sequence of incidents can generate emotional engagement and how descriptions contribute to the overall atmosphere. Throughout, he encourages writers to consider the psychological connection between characters and readers while providing practical suggestions for improving their storytelling skills. Ultimately, Smith aims to equip aspiring writers with the tools necessary to create impactful short fiction that resonates with readers.
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