Short stories are brief works of fiction that typically focus on a single incident or character. They are designed to evoke a specific mood or theme, often leaving a lasting impression on the reader in a concise format. Famous authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Flannery O'Connor have mastered this art form, showcasing the power of storytelling in just a few pages. These narratives can vary in style and genre, ranging from fantasy to realism. Short stories are often published in collections or literary magazines, making them accessible to a wide audience. Their brevity allows readers to explore diverse themes and ideas in a short amount of time.