THE WRITING OF THE SHORT STORY
BY
DRAKE UNIVERSITY, DES MOINES, IOWA
D. C. HEATH & CO., PUBLISHERS
BOSTON NEW YORK CHICAGO
Copyright, 1902,
By D. C. Heath & Co.
It is a pleasure
to be permitted to associate
with this little book
the name of my friend
Professor L. A. Sherman
of the University of Nebraska.
Foreword by Olivia Salter
In the vast literary landscape, the short story stands as a universally admired and cherished form of expression. Its brevity and focus compel writers to distill the essence of their narratives, delivering impactful and captivating stories within a limited space. And while the short story may be short, it is vast in its potential to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and transport readers to extraordinary realms.
It is within this context that Lewis Worthington Smith's comprehensive guide, The Writing of the Short Story, emerges to enlighten and inspire both emerging and seasoned writers. Smith's deep understanding of the craft honed through years of experience and a genuine love for storytelling are evident in every page of this remarkable book.
Smith's work is not just a mere handbook; it is a heartfelt invitation to delve into the art of crafting short stories. He invites writers to approach this unique literary form with an open mind and a passionate curiosity, urging them to embrace the inherent challenges and rewards of brevity. His writing style is both accessible and authoritative, making complex concepts and techniques understandable to writers at all levels of expertise.
One of the most striking aspects of Smith's approach is his insistence on the power of simplicity. He reminds us that a well-crafted short story does not need to rely on elaborate plot lines or excessive description. Instead, it thrives on the careful selection of words, the mastery of pacing and rhythm, and the artful exploration of character and conflict. Through his expert guidance, Smith unveils the secrets behind constructing vivid and unforgettable narratives with economy and precision.
Moreover, The Writing of the Short Story" celebrates the sheer diversity of this genre. Smith examines a wide range of themes, settings, and character types, illustrating the infinite possibilities that exist within the compressed space of the short story. Whether it be a tale of love-loss adventure or introspection, Smith demonstrates that the conventions and boundaries of this form are only limited by a writer's imagination.
As readers engage with Smith's teachings, they will discover a wealth of practical advice enriched by insightful examples and compelling anecdotes. They will learn how to infuse their stories with authenticity, how to captivate their readers from the first sentence, and how to craft a satisfying and resonant ending. Smith's guidance transcends formulaic approaches and empowers writers to embrace their unique voices, exploring new paths and experimenting with unconventional storytelling techniques.
"The Writing of the Short Story" is an indispensable resource that will inspire, motivate, and guide writers towards creating impactful and unforgettable stories. Lewis Worthington Smith's passion for his craft shines through every page, igniting a spark within writers to embark on their own creative journeys. It is my honor to present this compelling book to all those eager to explore the endless possibilities of the short story.
So, dear readers and writers, embrace the brevity, breathe life into your characters, and let your imagination soar. The world of short fiction awaits you, and Lewis Worthington Smith's wisdom will be your guiding light.
Olivia Salter
09/21/2023
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