Fiction

1. Fiction

2. Categories of Fiction Fiction is categorized by word count. Other means of categorization by length (page count, number of chapters or sections, etc.) are inaccurate.

3. Categories of Fiction There are no clear, agreed upon markers for separating one class of fiction from another. However, most systems generally agree on the word count range of each type of piece.

4. Categories of Fiction Flash or Micro Fiction = up to 500-1,000 words Short Story = up to 7,500 words Novelette = 7,500 words to 17,500 words Novella = 17,500 words to 40,000 words Novel = over 40,000 words

5. Purpose of Categorization It can be argued that the boundaries drawn between categories are arbitrary. There are distinct differences in each type of fiction. As the length of a piece increases, so does the complexity of the piece.

6. Complexity Conflict - a shorter work generally has a single or few conflicts. Longer pieces must contain more and more complicated conflicts.

7. Complexity Effect or Impression- Shorter works are intended to be read in a single sitting and produce a single unified effect on the reader. - Longer works do not attempt such unity

8. Complexity Theme - Longer works are able to better develop themes and to tackle more themes than shorter ones.

9. Complexity Depth Vs. Scope - Shorter works are often more focused, whereas longer works are usually broader in scope.