We allude to
the short prose narrative, requiring from a half-hour to one or two hours in
its perusal. The ordinary novel is objectionable, from its length, for reasons
already stated in substance. As it cannot be read at one sitting, it deprives
itself, of course, of the immense force derivable from totality. Worldly
interests intervening during the pauses of perusal, modify, annul, or
counteract, in a greater or less degree, the impressions of the book. But
simple cessation in reading would, of itself, be sufficient to destroy the true
unity. In the brief tale, however, the author is enabled to carry out the
fulness of his intention, be it what it may. During the hour of perusal the
soul of the reader is at the writer's control. There are no external or extrinsic
influences — resulting from weariness or interruption. (Poe, Review
of Hawthorne -- Twice-Told Tales, from Graham's Magazine, May 1842,
pp. 298-300.)
From Ernest Hemingway —There is no rule on how to write. Sometimes it comes easily and perfectly; sometimes it's like drilling rock and then blasting it out with charges.
This past week it's been like drilling rock for me.
Happy writing!
Dee Ann
