symbol : something that means something other than its literal meaning (i.e., water often symbolizes rebirth or new beginnings)

A short story is a type of literature that contains many of the same elements as a novel, but to a lesser degree. This is not to say that the elements are less important than those in a novel. Because of the length of a short story, authors need to be precise in their choice of detail and description. In short, every word matters. The title is significant, the characters may hold symbolic significance, and the outcome of the main conflict speaks directly to the human condition. Short stories offer us some pretty powerful ideas in texts that are meant to be read in a single sitting.