The Relation of Characters to Action and Setting

These three short-story elements are handled in accord with the designer's plan, the one or the other predominating as may suit his purpose and best tell the story. No rule can avail here but the double law of harmony and contrasts Once your purpose is settled, you will be able to decide which will best bring out your characters. To select a character that is too big for the setting, to bury character under action, or to emphasize the setting unduly, are equally fatal faults. The chief purpose of the short-story is to present character as do¬ing, being, or becoming, in an appropriate environment. Hold all in a safe balance.