The Art of the Novella: A Compact Guide to Crafting Short Novels

Ever thought about writing a novella? It's an intriguing alternative to a full-blown novel or a short story – a perfect middle ground that offers a unique blend of brevity and depth. If you've ever felt daunted by the length of a novel or constrained by a short story, the novella might just be your sweet spot. Here's a quick guide to mastering this engaging literary form.

A Short History of Novellas

Contrary to their name, novellas are not a new concept. They predate novels by centuries, with early examples seen in the short tales of Boccaccio's "Decameron." What's fascinating is that novellas often group shorter pieces to create a larger narrative, a practice still prevalent in modern storytelling.

Understanding the Novella

Generally, a novella spans about 10,000 to 50,000 words. However, this can vary, especially in younger readers' markets where a 50,000-word story might be considered a full-length novel. Literary awards like the Hugo and Nebula have specific word count criteria for novellas, often between 17,500 and 40,000 words.

Novella vs. Novel

Novellas can be likened to films in their structure. They cover a similar range of scenes and events, fitting snugly into the time it takes to watch a movie. This compactness presents both a challenge and an opportunity to tell a complete story in a shorter format.

The Process of Writing a Novella

Writing a novella requires a precise balance. Every scene and sentence must contribute to the story, avoiding unnecessary tangents. This limitation demands a tighter focus on character development and plot progression.

Should You Write a Novella?

A novella might be right for you if:

• You have a succinct writing style.
• You're exploring a specific market or genre.
• You're transitioning from short stories to longer works.
• You're keen on starting a new series quickly or testing a story idea.
• You're struggling to complete a novel and considering a shorter form.

From Novel to Novella

If you have an unfinished novel, consider converting it into a novella. This involves streamlining your story, focusing on key scenes, and ensuring the pace fits the novella format. It's a way to see your work in print sooner and can be a stepping stone to longer works.

Top Tip for Novella Writers

Before you start writing, immerse yourself in a few novellas. This helps you get a feel for the pacing and structure unique to this form. Remember, it's not just about reducing word count but about maintaining a compelling narrative within a smaller scope.

Plotting Your Novella

A novella typically requires fewer scenes, each packed with meaning and progression. The "One Page Novel" method, taught in E.A. Deverell's course, is an excellent tool for outlining your novella. It involves eight stages of plotting, each adding a layer to your story and helping to maintain a tight narrative.

The Journey Ahead

Writing the first draft of your novella might be quick, but don't underestimate the effort needed in revising and polishing your work. The journey from a rough draft to a published novella is filled with important decisions and refinements.

In summary, novellas offer a unique and fulfilling path for storytellers. They require a balance of brevity and depth, providing a canvas for writers to craft impactful and concise narratives. Whether you're a seasoned novelist or a beginner, the novella is a form worth exploring in your writing journey.

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