Does a short story have to be fiction?

No. A short story doesn't necessarily have to be fiction. There are many short non - fiction stories as well. For example, personal memoirs or historical accounts can be presented in the form of short stories. These non - fiction short stories are based on real events, real people, and real experiences.

In many cases, having an antagonist adds tension and drama to a short story. But it's not a strict requirement. A story could center around a character's self-discovery or exploration of a theme without a traditional villain.

Not necessarily. A short story can stand without symbols if the plot and characters are engaging enough on their own.

It depends. While a climax often adds intensity and resolution to a story, a short story can still be impactful without one. It could be more about a gradual reveal or a quiet moment of realization.

No, a short story doesn't always need dialogue. It can still be engaging and meaningful if the writer can paint a vivid picture and develop the story through other elements such as setting and action.

It really varies. A short fiction story could have anywhere from 5 to 50 pages, depending on a lot of factors like the writing style and the complexity of the plot.

Not always. Some short stories might have a prelude to set the stage or provide background, but many don't as they focus on delivering the core plot quickly.

Not usually. Short stories are often concise and don't have the traditional chapter structure like a novel.

Yes, a short story typically has paragraphs. They help organize the text and make it easier to read and understand.

Yes, it does. There's a short film associated with Toy Story 4.