WHAT'S not to love about short stories? As I age, my patience for the lengthy odysseys offered by novels wanes. Honestly, I find the succinct journeys of short stories far more appealing. They cut to the chase without the elaborate dance of plots and twists typical of longer works.
Short stories get straight to the point without making things too complicated. They're like the quiet kid in class who doesn't make a big deal about themselves. But when you do notice them, they might say something like, "I'm not a big book, just a small story."
Don't knock the unassuming short story. Or the quiet kid, for that matter. For they can surprise you when you least expect it. That's why I love short stories. I don't have to sweat it out at all. The journey is short, sweet and I'm still swept away by the storytelling.
If short stories are your cup of tea, then anthologies are like literary buffets where you can sample different genres and writing styles – all in one sitting.
Each author brings their own unique style, perspective and voice to the table. And if by chance you're not enamoured by one story, keep turning the pages — there's always another one that'll get your attention!
Here are two anthologies of short stories that you might want to pick up and read. These two books, one by young writers from the Junior Writers' programme and the other by winners of the Malaysian Short Story Writing Competition 2022, showcase the remarkable breadth of storytelling from different perspectives, conveying a vast array of human experiences and emotions across different ages and backgrounds.
This diversity not only enriches the reader's perspective but also celebrates the universal power of storytelling to connect us, revealing the myriad ways we understand and interpret the world around us.
Celebrating the shortness of these stories is indeed overdue. Their length, far from being a limitation, is a strength that allows for quick, immersive experiences.
In today's fast-paced world, where time is often a luxury, the ability to dive into a complete narrative in one sitting is invaluable. Short stories offer this convenience, providing a fulfilling literary experience without the commitment required by longer works.
The following anthologies remind us that great things often come in small packages, delivering meaningful, thought-provoking content that resonates long after the final word is read.
So, what's not to love about short stories?
The Eye: A Young Writers' Anthology
Edited by: Brigitte Rozario
Publisher: Brigitte Rozario
255 pages
PENNED by writers aged 12 to 16, this book is a culmination of their seven-month participation in writer/editor/trainer Brigitte Rozario's Junior Writers Programme.
This anthology of short stories centre around the enigmatic theme of the Eye, inviting readers into a realm where the ordinary becomes extraordinary.
The eye, often overlooked in its daily functionality, serves as a gateway to tales that are macabre, mysterious, and thrilling, yet interspersed with elements of myth and horror. These narratives stretch the boundaries of reality, urging us to let our imaginations roam free into the realms of the outlandish and the unreadable.
Imagine stories where the eye isn't just a visual organ but a catalyst for conflict, a keeper of mysteries, or even a harbinger of blessings. The possibilities are as endless as they're fascinating. From the gory to the otherworldly, each story in this collection explores the theme with a freshness and creativity that only young minds can conjure.
But these tales offer more than just a foray into the fantastical. At their core, they're reflections on human experiences — the strength of family bonds, the importance of friendships, the journey of believing in oneself, recognising and appreciating one's talents, and the profound sense of gratitude that comes from acknowledging the seemingly mundane parts of our lives.
A Chance Encounter at Sungai Chiling and other stories
Edited by: Malachi Edwin Vethamani and Sharon Bakar
Publisher: Maya Press
151 pages
THE Malaysian Short Story Competition 2022 showcased an impressive collection of tales, culminating in 14 standout stories. These include four grand prize winners, seven shortlisted stories, and three longlisted stories, each chosen for their excellence by the judges.
Sharmila Ganesan's A Chance Encounter at Sungai Chiling emerges as particularly notable, clinching the first prize for its compelling narrative. This story skilfully intertwines myths and beliefs with a deep exploration of belonging within a country, resonating with readers through its richly woven tapestry of themes and emotions.
The poignant reflection, "This is the only place I have but I don't know if I… belong", speaks to a universal dilemma faced by individuals who, despite being rooted in a land, culture, or community, grapple with feelings of disconnection and alienation.
Such A Pretty Girl by Sumitra Selvaraj presents a harrowing narrative that delves into the traumatic experiences of a young girl subjected to an unwelcome kiss, highlighting the darker, often ignored realities of growing up in a world where the innocence of children isn't always protected.
This story stands out for its unflinching portrayal of the discomfort and danger that can lurk in the everyday lives of the young, especially when the adults around them are either unaware or choose to ignore the signs of distress.
The anthology is a treasure trove of narratives that span a wide array of topics and genres, designed to surprise, shock and provoke thought, showcasing the versatility and depth of Malaysian storytelling.
I'm pleasantly surprised at how these writers have managed to infuse such fresh voices into their stories.
By giving space for the Malaysian voice to emerge, this anthology offers a window into the soul of a nation as told through the pens of its writers.