An optical emitter includes at least one nanowire connected in a circuit such that current selectively flows into the nanowire. The nanowire has a length-to-diameter ratio of ten or less. A method for generating optical emission includes applying a voltage across a nanowire to inject charge carriers into the nanowire, the nanowire having a length-to-diameter ratio of ten or less; and confining the charge carriers within the nanowire by placing a high bandgap material at each end of the nanowire, wherein the charge carriers recombine to emit optical energy.