What defines a novella for you? In it purely length or is it also the nature of the story?

Answer 1

This question is still being debated. Those in the literary field even wonder "Is it possible to have a 150 page novel and a 151 page novella?"

Some of the greatest literature produced by U.S. writers has been done via the novella. The Great Gatsby, The Old Man & the Sea, A River Runs Through It -- all (it can be argued) novellas.

I think the novella has to be defined by more qualitative elements (plot, character, themes, etc.) than by quantatative aspects (length, structure, format). With that in mind, I think these items are key to defining a successful novella:
-One plot line.
-The development and focus on a main character.
-An unique intensity to the writing.
-Resolution to the main conflict (not necessarily on all levels).

I'm sure there will be others that vigorously diagree with this, but at least it provides you with a jumping off point to open the debate on the question.

Hope this helps. --Andy

Answer 2

This concept has to do both with length the nature of the story. I think that the nature of the story its the most important element, as there can be "short novels". The novel lets the author to develop a story by including stories related to the main characters.

Answer 3

Novella to me is a short novel long enough to develop a character in a small story. Bring that character to a conclusion, if not the story.