One characteristic is their brevity. They convey a complete story in just one page, so every word counts. For example, they often have a single, clear plotline without too many sub - plots.
One page long short stories often have a single, strong theme. Since there's limited space, they focus on one main idea. For instance, it could be about a moment of realization or a brief encounter that changes a character's perspective. They also tend to have a small number of characters, typically just one or two main characters, as it's difficult to develop a large cast in such a short space.
These short stories are masterful in character development despite their brevity. They use just a few details to make characters memorable. For example, in 'The Necklace', Maupassant quickly makes the main character a symbol of vanity through her obsession with a piece of jewelry, all within a short space.
Most of them are concise. They can convey deep emotions or complex ideas in just one page. For example, they can show love, like in 'The Gift of the Magi', with just a few paragraphs.
They are concise. For example, they usually have a simple plot that can be easily understood by children. A story might focus on just one main event or a single problem and its solution.
They are concise. They have to convey a science - fictional concept quickly, like a flash of an idea. For example, they might introduce a new technology or a different world in just a few sentences.
They usually have a small number of characters. Since there is limited space, the author can't develop a large cast. In 'A Rose for Emily', the main focus is on Emily and the townspeople's perception of her. Also, 5 - page short stories tend to have a quick - paced plot. There's not much room for long, drawn - out build - ups. They often start near the inciting incident and move rapidly towards the climax and resolution, like in 'The Yellow Wallpaper' where the woman's mental state deteriorates quite quickly.
They are concise. In just 10 pages, they need to convey a complete plot. For example, they usually have a focused theme, like in 'The Necklace' by Guy de Maupassant, which is about the consequences of vanity.
Often, 20 - page short stories tend to have a limited number of characters. This allows for in - depth exploration of the main characters' personalities and motives. In 'The Cask of Amontillado', the two main characters are explored thoroughly in a relatively short space, making the story full of tension and mystery.
Often, 3 - page short stories focus on a single theme or idea intensely. Take 'The Yellow Wallpaper' as an example. In those few pages, it delves deeply into the mental breakdown of the female protagonist due to her confinement and the lack of agency she has. It's all about the exploration of her psychological state.
They are also highly focused. Since there's limited space, the theme is very clear. There's no room for a lot of sub - plots or complex backstories. Take 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. It's about a small town's lottery, but it quickly reveals the dark side of human nature with a very direct and focused narrative in just one page.