Novels
- Novels take much longer to write but you can go into so much more depth. Subplots add layer to a story and there just isn't the room for these in a short story.
- I think there is a greater sense of achievement in completing a novel simply due to the increased amount of work needed here. I love completing short stories (and I like it even more when they're accepted) but there is something special about finishing a novel, whether it is published or not. Not everyone gets to their end of their "big idea".
- Novels have room for those interesting characters who push the story onwards but are not the major stars. I love the "bit part" players in films. I like them in books too as long as their role is a crucial one. (If not, I cut them out on my first edit).
Short Stories
These remain the main work I have published so will always have a special place in my heart for that reason alone. Other reasons to love the short form are:-
- A good short story captures a moment in time and is unforgettable. It is pacy, to the point and you feel there isn't a word wasted.
- I'm really pleased there has been a revival of interest in short stories. There are online sites like Alfie Dog and Shortbread Short Stories which will publish work online (they both have some of mine!). There are lots of competitions too.
- A short story, if turned down for one competition, is easier to edit and resubmit elsewhere.