The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka: A classic novella, The Metamorphosis tells the surreal and unsettling story of Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect. Kafka’s exploration of alienation and the absurdity of human existence is a hallmark of existential literature. The internal struggles and alienation experienced explore the inner workings of the human psyche. The symbolism and allegory used in the story represent societal expectations, the dehumanizing effects of modernity, or the author’s feelings of inadequacy and alienation. 

Every word of the short story or novella can take on huge meanings and show the author’s skill taking them a step closer to realizing the full potential of their literary dreams. The subject matter can encompass virtually anything, but the beauty is the writer’s ability to capture moments, emotions, and ideas succinctly.

Examples:

I still cry when I read Miss Brill, by stream-of-consciousness narrative writer Katherine Mansfield, in her short story about a woman’s Sunday outing to a park. The moment captured when the girl makes fun of Miss Brill’s fur collar is said with such casualness like most folks do these days, but the emotions felt later are a sledgehammer taking blows to your heart for the ultimate changes Mrs. Brill experiences. 

The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman has the protagonist obsessing over the wallpaper in her room as she descends into madness. This moment captures the psychological unraveling of the character and the broader theme of the oppression of women in society.

Short stories and novellas have a restricted word count, making it challenging to fully develop characters and complex plotlines. The tightening of character development, plot structure, and creating memorable endings help craft impactful stories. These works require exact pacing, tight world-building, and special navigation of the publishing landscape. Writers must become adept at navigating submission processes, including crafting compelling cover letters, adhering to submission guidelines, and understanding response times. While the market can be more niche compared to novels, some publishers may prioritize full-length novels due to perceived commercial viability, making it more challenging for writers of shorter works to find suitable markets. Many short stories find homes in literary magazines, anthologies, or online platforms dedicated to shorter fiction. Adapting to the unique demands and understanding the publishing landscape is crucial. These published works can be an exceptional way to build a portfolio and gain recognition before attempting to publish a full-length novel.