What are the characteristics of the World Fantasy Award Short Story winners?
Character - depth is a big characteristic. The characters in these short stories are usually well - developed, even in a short span. Their emotions, motives, and growth are palpable. For example, in some stories, a character's journey from fear to acceptance of the fantastical elements around them is carefully crafted. Well, also, the use of language is often very creative. Writers use vivid and evocative language to bring the story to life. They might use archaic words to set a certain mood or create new words to describe the unique elements in their fantasy worlds. The themes explored are also quite diverse, ranging from love and loss in a fantastical context to moral and ethical dilemmas that are heightened by the presence of magic or the supernatural.
Many of the winners often have very unique and immersive settings. They can transport readers to strange and otherworldly places, whether it's a haunted house, a magical realm, or a distorted version of our own world.
