Asks Quote by Elizabeth Bowen
“every short story is an experiment - what one must ask is not only, did it come off, but was it, as an experiment, worth making?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Literary criticism, 1945, on short story craft
A short story should be treated as an experiment; its success is measured not just by execution but by its artistic value.
In simple terms: Stories are experiments that must be worthwhile.
Key Takeaway
Assess both execution and purpose.
Themes
creativity
evaluation
literature
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- story analysis
- creative writing classes
Key Concepts
experimental narrative
artistic merit
authorial intent
Questions to Reflect On
- Does a technically perfect story always succeed?
- How to balance form and purpose?
A Different Perspective
Focus on execution can neglect deeper meaning.
