I think I would like to write a dissertation. When I write stories, I never know what's going to happen, how they will end, until at least half way through. I sometimes wish I could outline a plot and see it all the way to the end, and I do try with the novel length works, but when it comes to short stories, I just never know when or what inspiration will come in the process. I don't suppose one could write a dissertation like that. :)