These novels usually have strong character development despite their short length. The authors are skilled at revealing a character's personality, motives, and inner conflicts in just a few pages. This is achieved through the characters' actions, dialogues, and the descriptions of their surroundings. Also, the use of symbolism is quite common, adding depth to the stories. For example, an object or a place in the story might represent something bigger, like a character's dreams or fears.
Many of them are concise but profound. They manage to tell a complete story with complex characters in a short space. For example, they often use vivid language to quickly draw the reader into the plot.
Well - developed characters are also important. In short mystery novels like 'The Black Cat' by Edgar Allan Poe, the main character's complex and often unreliable narration adds to the mystery. His actions and inner thoughts are crucial elements that make the story both puzzling and engaging.
Russian short novels also tend to be quite philosophical. Tolstoy's short novels, like 'The Death of Ivan Ilyich', make the readers think about life, death, and the meaning of existence. The characters in these novels are often on a journey of self - discovery, which is a common theme that makes these short novels so great and thought - provoking.
One characteristic is that they can convey complex ideas in a concise way. 'Animal Farm' manages to comment on political systems and power struggles in a short space. They also tend to have strong emotional hooks. In 'A Wrinkle in Time', the main character's longing for her father creates an emotional pull. Additionally, great short YA novels often introduce young readers to different literary devices, like the use of symbolism in 'The Giver'.
Great short horror novels often have a strong sense of atmosphere. They can quickly draw the reader into a world of fear. For example, in 'The Yellow Wallpaper', the description of the wallpaper and the room sets a very claustrophobic and spooky mood. Another characteristic is the use of unexpected twists. In 'The Monkey's Paw', the wishes turn out in the most horrifying ways. Also, they usually have a memorable antagonist or source of horror, like the vampire in 'Carmilla'.
They are very good at creating unique and vivid settings. Take 'The Martian Chronicles' (even though it's more of a collection of related short stories). Each story within it builds a detailed and fascinating picture of Mars, from its desolate landscapes to the strange new cultures that might exist there. This ability to create immersive settings is a key characteristic.
Great German short stories often have a sense of the uncanny. For example, Kafka's works like 'The Metamorphosis' are full of strange and unexpected events. German novels tend to be very in - depth in exploring complex themes. 'The Magic Mountain' by Thomas Mann is a prime example, as it examines various aspects of human nature and society in great detail.
One characteristic is their deep exploration of human nature. For example, in 'The Metamorphosis', Kafka shows how quickly family relations can change when faced with the abnormal. Another is the use of rich and detailed settings. In 'The White Horse Rider', Storm's description of the North German coast makes it almost a character in itself. Also, many German short works often have complex moral and ethical themes.
Great short science fiction novels often have a unique concept. They can present a new idea about technology, society, or the universe in a concise way. For example, in 'The Pedestrian' by Ray Bradbury, it shows a future where walking on the street is seen as abnormal due to excessive focus on technology at home.
Great novels typically display a high level of authenticity. They mirror the real - world in some way, whether it's the relationships between people, the social and political situations, or the psychological states of characters. The pacing is also important; it should be well - balanced so that the story unfolds at the right speed, not too rushed or too slow. And great novels usually have an element of universality, meaning that people from different cultures and backgrounds can relate to the story on some level.
They often have complex characters. For example, in 'Pride and Prejudice', Elizabeth Bennet is a multi - faceted character with her own pride and prejudices. They also usually have a well - developed plot that unfolds over time, engaging the reader from start to finish.