Question

You have just looked closely at three forms of fiction: the short story, the novella, and the novel. Each of these forms has distinct characteristics as well as certain advantages and disadvantages for the writer and the reader. What do you see as the advantages and disadvantages of these three different types of fiction?

Answer 1

Short Stories

Advantages

can be read in one sitting, so even people with time constraints can enjoy them

provide a focused example of the writing style of a particular author

give insight into different cultures and people in a short piece

Disadvantages

limited scope for building on literary elements, such as plot, setting, and symbols

limited scope for developing characters and creating connections with readers

Novellas

Advantages

do not require too much time to read, but do not end too soon

can develop and explore most fictional elements with focus and precision

require crisp writing with less scope for slow, lengthy descriptions

Disadvantages

too short to do justice to certain literary elements, such as secondary characters and subplots

limited scope for developing characters and creating connections with readers

Novels

Advantages

allow for use and development of elements of fiction, such as plot, setting, and symbols

allow readers to get immersed in the story and connect with the characters

Disadvantages

take more time to read

literary and fictional elements can be complicated and hard to understand; for example, twisting plots and subplots, many characters to keep track of

lengthy descriptions can become boring and make for a slow, painstaking read