V.S. Pritchett's definition of a short story is 'something…
““V.S. Pritchett's definition of a short story is 'something glimpsed from the corner of the eye, in passing.' Notice the 'glimpse' part of this. First the glimpse. Then the glimpse gives life, turned into something that illuminates the moment and may, if we're lucky -- that word again -- have even further ranging consequences and meaning. The short story writer's task is to invest the glimpse with all that is in his power. He'll bring his intelligence and literary skill to bear (his talent), his sense of proportion and sense of the fitness of things: of how things out there really are and how he sees those things -- like no one else sees them. And this is done through the use of clear and specific language, language used so as to bring to life the details that will light up the story for the reader. For the details to be concrete and convey meaning, the language must be accurate and precisely given. The words can be so precise they may even sound flat, but they can still carry; if used right they can hit all the notes.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A short story hinges on a fleeting, vivid impression that, when fully rendered, illuminates deeper meaning.
In simple terms: A brief, sharp image can carry a story’s power.
Key Takeaway
Focus on precise, evocative details.
Themes
writing
observation
precision
Mood
instructive
inspirational
Type
literary
educational
When to use this quote
- Creative writing workshops
- editing sessions
- storytelling practice
Key Concepts
Literary craft
visual imagination
detail orientation
Questions to Reflect On
- What “glimpse” can you capture in your writing?
- How does detail shape a reader’s emotional response?
A Different Perspective
Too much precision can feel clinical, reducing emotional resonance.