I keep writing short stories, and I keep asking myself why? Is it because I was told many years ago – and have had it repeated incessantly since – that success with ‘shorts’ is a sort of proving ground for authorship? A century or so ago, I guess, it might have been; Dickens began with his Boz sketches, didn’t he? A century ago; not now.
The technique for short story writing is quite different: depth is positively discouraged; it’s all about outcome, with scant attention to the steps along the way. The process for seeking publication is just plain frustrating, with turn-around tying up MSs for as much as three months at a time. To some extent writing has to be a business: short stories are not cost-effective.
So – all change! Since my writing of ‘shorts’ is an indulgence, I’m simply putting them up on my website for anyone who wants. They are still copyright, of course, and I would ask you not to reproduce them, but please come along, please stop by and read! There are four to start with, there will be more as soon as I can get the time. Personally, my favorite of this first batch is ‘Parfitt’s Island’ – but that’s just me.
Clever idea. I’m not one to write short stories, and I don’t often read them. Not sure why. I’ll tuck your site away should I have some time to explore.
It wouldn’t let me comment on your ‘Aside’ post, but I wanted to thank you for the mention and say you’re welcome for the reviews. I appreciate the hours of entertainment the two books of yours I’ve read (so far) have given me.
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I honestly don’t know why I write short stories – I don’t really like the format: I think it must be a blood condition, or something. The reviews? Well, what more can I say? They really do mean a lot. Thank you.
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