David Means, a successful writer renowned for his visually arresting short stories, frequently considers the special benefits that this genre provides. According to him, the short story is a delicate and accurate instrument that can be used to dissect intricate emotions and societal issues, much like a surgeon's scalpel.

Because it enables him to examine various facets of American life and culture without having to devote himself to the prolonged concentration and in-depth research necessary to write a novel, Means finds the short story form to be especially freeing. Because Means can swiftly explore a wide range of themes, characters, and settings with shorter pieces, each story is a succinct but impactful examination of particular moments or concepts.

He believes that a lot of novels lose their compelling core and tight narrative threads because they are too ambitious in scope. The short story, on the other hand, enables a more intense and concentrated interaction with the reader, offering insights that may be lost in longer works. It reveals minute details that would otherwise go unnoticed, much like focusing a magnifying glass on a single moment or interaction.

Means' thoughts demonstrate his admiration for depth and conciseness, which are characteristics of his own writing. His method of telling stories is more like creating miniature works of art than large canvases; every brushstroke is purposeful and full of meaning.