Human Connections in Superior Short Stories

A superior short story is a story that demonstrates a connection. Whether that be a physical connection or an emotional connection, each are things that humans need in order to be fulfilled. By demonstrating the desire for connection, a short story satisfies an internal human urge to be understood and connected with someone or something else. Brochure-Design defines a short story as "A brief piece of fiction that is more pointed and more economically detailed as to character, situation, and plot than a novel" ("Brochure Design Publishing Terms"). Although short stories may be very condensed, they still have the power to be moving and inspiring. There is great difficulty in designing a story that demonstrates the power of human connections, but three authors have done so quite well. Their stories are not only powerful, but insightful as to both the importance and necessity of human connections. Amy Tan's "Rules of the Game" shows the positive retributions that come from a solid and mutual human connection and relationship. John Steinbeck's "The Chrysanthemums" and Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wall-Paper" both demonstrate the importance of human connection, as well as the consequences that arise when those connections are either rejected or not made at all. Each of these stories demonstrates in its own way the desire and power of connection.