What makes a short story one of the best literary short stories?

A good literary agent for short stories in 2019 would have strong connections in the publishing industry. They could get short stories in front of the right editors at top publishers. For example, if they had a long - standing relationship with a major magazine that publishes short stories like The New Yorker, that would be a plus.

A great short story often has a strong and unique concept. For example, 'The Lottery' has this very unexpected concept of a lottery that's not what you'd initially think. It also needs engaging characters, even if they're briefly described. In 'The Gift of the Magi', the young couple is so relatable. And a good short story usually has a well - crafted plot that can be told in a short space without feeling rushed or incomplete.

A great short story often has a strong and unique concept. For example, in 'The Gift of the Magi', the idea of the couple sacrificing their most precious things in a selfless way is very touching. It also has well - developed characters, even in a short space. In 'A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings', the old man is a very mysterious and thought - provoking character.

A great short story often has a powerful and engaging plot. For example, it might have a big twist at the end like in 'The Lottery'. It also needs well - developed characters, even if it's just a short piece. In 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find', the characters are complex and interesting. And the theme should be thought - provoking, like the exploration of human nature in 'Young Goodman Brown'.

A great short story often has a strong and engaging plot. It grabs the reader's attention from the start and keeps them hooked until the end. For example, in 'The Tell - Tale Heart', Poe creates a tense and suspenseful plot with the narrator's descent into madness. Another factor is well - developed characters. Even in a short space, the characters need to be believable and interesting. In 'A Rose for Emily', Faulkner creates a complex character in Emily. Also, the use of themes that are relevant and thought - provoking, like the exploration of love and sacrifice in 'The Gift of the Magi', can make a short story one of the best.

A great short short story often has a strong concept. For example, it can convey a deep emotion or idea in just a few pages. If it has a unique plot twist like in 'The Gift of the Magi', it can be really engaging. Also, the use of language matters. A story that uses vivid and concise language can be very effective. For instance, Hemingway's short stories are known for their sparse yet powerful prose.

A good creepy short story needs a strong sense of mystery. Take 'The Tell - Tale Heart'. You're constantly wondering what the narrator will do next and why he's so obsessed with the old man's eye. Another important factor is the use of vivid descriptions. In 'The Masque of the Red Death', Poe's detailed descriptions of the different rooms and the masked figure add to the creepiness. Also, the theme of the story can contribute. If it's about something that violates our normal sense of the world, like in 'Carmilla' with its vampire element, it can be very creepy.

One key factor is the exploration of urban themes. This could be about the class differences in the city, the cultural diversity, or the impact of modern technology on urban life. If a short story can make the reader feel the unique rhythm and atmosphere of the city, like the fast - paced lifestyle or the nightlife, it has a good chance of being a great urban short story. For instance, stories that show how people interact in urban public spaces are often very engaging.

A good thriller short story often has a sense of mystery. For example, in 'The Yellow Wallpaper' by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, the mystery of the woman's mental state and what's really behind the wallpaper keeps readers on edge.

Relatable characters also contribute. In 'A&P' by John Updike, the young cashier Sammy who rebels against the store's policy for the sake of some girls in bathing suits is a character many can identify with. His internal monologue and his small act of rebellion make the story an interesting and fun read.