Writing a novel doesn’t mean that you can write a short story. I’ve learned this the hard way, several times.
I know many wonderful short story writers. A few friends have used short stories to help reboot their muse. I’ve tried, but every time I try and write a short story, I end up starting a novel. Nevertheless I persist. Partly because I like the challenge. Also because I’ve been asked to write for an anthology, and I need to turn something in.
When writing a short story there isn’t room for backstory, or secondary plots, or lots of characters. There’s room for a story, a complex story depending on the craft level of the writer.
Learning how to write a short story intrigues me as a way to develop my craft. But also as a way to explore new genres. I write mysteries. Maybe I could write a romance short story, or a thriller, or a caper? MAYBE horror, though it would be low key horror.
Short stories are also a great way to introduce readers to new characters. Or to fill in gaps between publishing in a series.
When you are a writer, you are always developing your craft. That’s never done. Will short stories be part of that craft development for me? Or a great way to start a new book? I’ve said yes to the anthology, so something’s going to be written.
A few years ago, I wrote a series of blog posts about A Christmas Carol. This was well before A Christmas Peril was published, but I was already working on the book. I unabashedly love A Christmas Carol. So in this spirit, I wanted to compile the previous posts in one place.
