This era of information and connectivity has taken off one of the most precious things from our life, yes, I am referring to ‘Spare Time’. New media (TV, FM Radio and I-Net) has been drawing people away from reading. Because audio or audio-visual delivery is definitely much more effective as far as communication of thoughts are concerned.

Thus, today we hardly give time to read a gigantic novels. I am not talking about the bookworms, my comment is simply based on common people’s behaviour.

I would also like to stress on an important point that most of the modern readers are passing through a hectic life due to several reasons. Their demands are also compartmentalised. Thus, the demand for good short stories is increasing.

We have been witnessing success of the Indian regional short story writers (say) for the last 100 years. Thus, I do not think any further testimony is required in order to establish the market demand for good  (strong) short stories.

In this plethora of literary websites, any author can easily publish a few stories in any such website (free of cost) and can see the reviews thereon in order to ascertain his market demand. If the initial effort bids well, the author can tie up with any publisher to bring out his short story book.

Internet is the best place for guidance to streamline your write-ups with the readers’ demands. Also, this clearly signals your market potential. A few good reviews can help you to convince your publisher.

One unpleasant but important aspect in this field is judging your potential first. Especially, if you opt to go for self-financed publication, assess your potential at very beginning, otherwise your finger may get burnt.

The day has gone when publishing a literary work was just a matter of hobby fetching some revenue. Today, it is a kind of business at least in the western countries. And as in the post globalization period India is rapidly remoulding itself to the world style and standard, you need to be very careful about the quality of your work. Quality means literary standard of the short stories, book cover & layout, page & printing standards.

Remember, if your work is not meant for your region only, you have to consider the global need and maintain standard accordingly. However, if you do not give a try, you can never win. So, keeping in mind the above points, go ahead. All the best.

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P. K. Chatterjee

Writer, Editor and Reviewer