Identifying Shortcomings in Novel Length: 7 Signs and Solutions
In the world of literature, a collection of short stories is set to be released by a talented fiction writer in 2016. This author, however, has an intriguing plan – to construct a novel from these short stories. But transforming a short story into a novel isn't always straightforward, and it's essential to identify signs of a short story masquerading as a novel.
A work that feels more like a longer piece with limited character development, plot complexity, or narrative depth may be a short story disguised as a novel. To spot such a work, look for signs such as a relatively short length (e.g., about 100 pages or less), a single plot arc resembling a short story rather than multiple intertwined subplots, and a narrative focusing on a narrow slice of life with few fully developed characters or thematic layers.
When faced with a short story masquerading as a novel, there are ways to fix it. One approach is to expand character development, deepening the characters’ backgrounds, motivations, and arcs to give readers stronger emotional investment and more complexity. Adding subplots and thematic layers can also create a richer, more complex narrative structure. Increasing the narrative scope or depth, moving beyond a snapshot or limited perspective, can help to cover broader timeframes, settings, or psychological insights. Balancing pacing is crucial to let tension and development unfold more gradually rather than quickly resolving everything as in short stories.
For instance, a work that feels like "a long short story, one with a promising setting and a sound plot arc, but not enough time to get to know or care about characters" can benefit from these fixes to better meet novel expectations. Additionally, fragmented or spurts-based writing can be developed into more continuous narratives with fuller context, enriching the novel form.
Short stories are perfect for ideas set in fantastical or dystopian worlds without heavy world-building. Suspension of disbelief grows stronger in shorter works, making them ideal for exploring imaginative concepts. However, when it comes to novels, a lack of subplot can make it difficult to carry a story on one single premise. Toning down the style in a long work could make it more palatable and engaging for readers.
Introducing another perspective, written in another style, could break up the intensity in a long work. Considering other perspectives can broaden a story, providing new angles and dimensions. If an idea isn't working as a novel, consider editing it down to a short story. Trimming a work down, limiting scope, and exploring a different style can help a short story.
In conclusion, the key is to evaluate whether the narrative complexity, character depth, and thematic development suit the length and expectations of a novel. When it falls short, expanding these elements thoughtfully transforms a short story into a proper novel. A subplot enhances the main plot but doesn't overpower; it enriches the story but isn't the main feature. The author's innovative approach to constructing a novel from short stories is a testament to the versatility and adaptability of the written word.
A writer could enrich a short story disguised as a novel by expanding character development, adding subplots, and increasing narrative scope, making it more complex and engaging. When faced with a story that revolves around home and garden themes, such as a charming village life, increasing thematic layers, like exploring societal norms or personal growth, could elevate it to a novel lifestyle genre.
