Novella
In short: The novella is a middle form between the short story and the novel. It concentrates on a single, extraordinary event – an „unheard-of occurrence“ – with one clear turn.
Where the term comes from
The word comes from the Italian novella („piece of news“). Boccaccio's „Decameron“ shaped the form; Goethe defined the novella as „an unheard-of event that has taken place“ – often condensed into a single symbolic object.
How to build a novella
One event at the centre: The novella tells not a whole life but one decisive occurrence and its consequences.
Keep it taut: Fewer subplots than the novel, more room than the short story – hold the action concentrated.
Set a clear turning point: The classic novella pivots on a moment where everything tips.
Use a symbolic object: A recurring object can gather the novella together and carry its theme.
Novellas on Fireside
Between the short story and the novel, the novella is an ideal form for a serialized story: concentrated enough to read in one go, long enough for real depth.
Related terms: Short Story · Turning Point · Symbol · Conflict
Frequently asked questions
What is a novella?
A middle narrative form between short story and novel that concentrates on a single extraordinary event.
What is the difference between a novella and a short story?
The novella is longer and built more strictly around one striking event with a clear turn; the short story is shorter and often more open.
What is an „unheard-of occurrence“?
Goethe's formula for the unusual, unprecedented event at the heart of a novella.