Littleire

Littleire is a term used in digital literature to describe a compact form of microfiction that integrates short prose with visual or typographic elements in a single online artifact. The intent is to deliver a complete moment or mood in a small, self-contained unit suitable for scrolling interfaces and mobile devices.

Origin and scope: The concept emerged within online writing communities in the 2010s and 2020s as readers and creators explored concise storytelling for the web. There is no formal governing body or official specification; practices vary by author and publication.

Form and features: A typical littleire entry comprises a brief narrative fragment, often under a couple of hundred words, paired with an image, illustration, or typographic device. Metadata such as author, date, setting, and mood may accompany the piece. The presentation favors minimalism, read-time transparency, and a linkable, standalone unit.

Reception and use: Littleire is used in online journals, zines, and social media contexts to experiment with the balance of text and image. Critics note its flexibility and accessibility but point to the lack of standardization, which can hinder cross-publication discovery.

See also: microfiction, electronic literature, digital poetry, short form storytelling.