What is the main feature of a short story?

The main feature of a short story is that it is prose fiction that encompasses key elements such as plot, characters, and point of view. A short story typically focuses on a single incident or theme, which allows for a concise and impactful narrative. By concentrating on a smaller cast of characters and a focused plot, a short story can convey its message or theme effectively within a limited word count.

This structural simplicity is what distinguishes short stories from longer forms of fiction, such as novels, which often feature multiple plots and a more complex character development. The absence of mandated rhyme also sets short stories apart from poetry, which often emphasizes form and structure differently. While a short story can indeed be read in one sitting, its defining characteristic lies in its creation as a compact narrative that utilizes critical storytelling components to engage readers quickly and profoundly.