Here's why:
* Setting and Simple Plot: Short stories often have a focused setting and a clear, concise plot that unfolds within a limited timeframe.
* Word Count: While there's no strict word count, short stories typically range from 500 to 20,000 words.
* Genre: Short stories can be found in various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, mystery, romance, science fiction, fantasy, and more.
Other possible options:
* Flash Fiction: Even shorter than short stories, typically under 1,000 words.
* Novella: A longer short story, typically between 17,500 and 40,000 words.
* Short Novel: A longer work than a novella, but shorter than a novel, typically around 40,000 to 60,000 words.
Ultimately, the specific label depends on the length and complexity of the work.