Why Are Short Stories Unlikely to Contain a Subplot?

Short Stories vs Novels

Short stories are a form of fiction that is shorter in length compared to novels. They typically focus on a single event, character, or theme and aim to deliver a powerful message or evoke a specific emotion in a compact format. On the other hand, novels are longer works of fiction that have the space to explore multiple characters, events, and themes in depth.

Space Limitation

Short stories are limited in length, usually ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand words. This limitation makes it challenging to include subplots alongside the main plot. In a short story, every word and sentence is carefully chosen to serve the main narrative, leaving little room for additional storylines.

Main Plot Focus

Since short stories are concise by nature, the main plot is the central focus of the narrative. Unlike novels, which can afford to have multiple subplots weaving through the main storyline, short stories prioritize clarity and impact. Including a subplot in a short story may distract from the main message or dilute the overall effectiveness of the narrative.

Artistic Choice

While some authors have successfully incorporated subplots into short stories, it is generally uncommon due to the constraints of the format. The beauty of a short story lies in its brevity and precision, capturing a moment or emotion with sharp clarity. Attempting to squeeze in a subplot may disrupt the balance of the narrative and undermine the impact of the main plot.

Why are short stories unlikely to contain a subplot?

Usually short stories and novellas do not contain a subplot because there is only space for the main plot itself. On the other hand, many novels contain a multitude of subplots; so many that the main plot might be difficult to articulate.Explanation: