Argument Quote by H. E. Bates
“The basis of almost every argument or conclusion I can make is the axiom that the short story can be anything the author decides it shall be;...In that infinite flexibility, indeed lies the reason why the short story has never been adequately defined.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Short Story, H. E. Bates, 1970
The short story’s power comes from its limitless freedom, allowing any form the author chooses, which makes it hard to pin down a single definition.
In simple terms: Freedom makes the short story undefinable.
Key Takeaway
Embrace creative freedom.
Themes
creativity
literature
definition
form
flexibility
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
educational
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- literary criticism
- teaching creative writing
- publishing
- reading analysis
Key Concepts
narrative theory
authorial intent
genre boundaries
Questions to Reflect On
- How does flexibility affect reader expectations?
- What responsibilities does this freedom give authors?
A Different Perspective
Some readers may find the lack of fixed structure confusing or alienating.
