Difference Between Short Stories And Poems

Submitted By Shugashy
Words: 407
Pages: 2

Coincidentally both pieces seem to be missing a plot. Plot is defined as "a dynamic elements in fiction, a sequence of interrelated, conflicting actions and events that typically build to a climax and bring about a resolution"(Clugston, 2010). Frost's character's only major action was to decide on a path to take. There was no conflict there, because it made him no difference which path he took, as the poem stated, "Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim, Because it was grassy and wanted wear;"(Frost, 1916). He only chose the path because no one had walked on it.In the end he states, "I took the one less traveled by and that has made all the difference"(Frost, 1916), which meant that ultimately, he was happy with the decision. "I Used to Live Here Once" ends with one line, although there is a climax. "That was the first time she knew "(Rhys, 1976). Although it pushes the boundaries of the plot, it doesn't offer a resolution.
The forms of short stories and poems are not the same even though the syntax are similar. In my opinion, a major difference between short stories and poems is that poetry conveys meaning through the use of literary devices, while short stories rely more on the use of symbolism and characters to create a theme.
Something else that differs is the placement of words and poetry. At times, the last words in sentences are made to rhyme, although regular sentence structure is usually maintained. Frost also created rhythm by using