"I think that a "story" has to have a beginning, a middle, and an end. There has to be a situation, and characters, and the characters have to DO things -- things that have an effect on the situation and the other characters -- and the characters must be changed by the effects of those things. A lot of modern fiction is just vignettes, not stories -- the difference is that the characters don't take any action, or there isn't an end." David D. Levine
The above quote is from the author of Space Magic, just one of the fine story collections featured in the final Short Review of the year. I love the reviews but, for me, the interviews on this monthly online review are the real treat. Each interviewee is posed the same set of questions and it's always fascinating to see the answers they give: some serious, some not-so-serious, some thoughtful. It's a treasure trove of insight and wisdom for all writers of short stories.
Toddle over there and get some great ideas for short fiction collections to buy for yourself.
2 comments:
I love the interviews, too. Every time an author sends in his or her answers, I can't wait to read their particular take - each gets the same questions but such a range of responses, it's wonderful. Of course, I also want to buy every book we review... it's a problem.
Hi T
You are doing a great job; I understand re wanting to buy the books. Occupational hazard, methinks!
N x
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