SHORT STORY: IS IT A DISTINCT FORM OF LITERATURE?

Though short story as a distinct form of literature seems to be a very recent
phenomenon, in fact, it has been there for many centuries, entertaining the listeners
irrespective of their age, language, gender and country. It is observed that in the history of
entertainment telling and listening stories has always occupied an important place. During
the initial period, these stories were orally handed down from one generation to the next.
However, with the passing of time, the writers began to write down the stories. The interest
of the writers and listeners in the short story has given it a distinct form with its peculiar
characteristic features. That is why, this paper aims to explore various aspects of short
story and find out if these aspects are similar or otherwise to the aspects of other literary
forms like novel and drama.