This collection is significant as it gives a comprehensive view of American short - story writing. The stories selected for '100 years of the best american short stories' have been carefully curated. They represent different literary movements and trends. Reading through it, one can observe how American short - story writers have been influenced by their surroundings, cultural changes, and historical events. It's not just a compilation of good stories; it's a journey through the American literary landscape over a hundred years.
One characteristic could be the diversity of themes. They might cover a wide range of topics from the human condition to social issues. Another is the variety of writing styles, as different authors over 100 years would bring their own unique voices. Also, they may show the evolution of American culture over time through the stories' settings and characters.
Lovecraft's short stories are renowned for their unique blend of horror and the macabre. 'The Call of Cthulhu' is a standout, introducing the terrifying Cthulhu entity. It creates a sense of cosmic dread that few other stories can match. Another great one is 'At the Mountains of Madness', which takes readers on a chilling journey to the Antarctic. The vivid descriptions of the alien landscapes and the ancient, otherworldly beings make it a must - read for any Lovecraft fan.
Julio Cortazar's short stories are known for their unique blend of the real and the surreal. In the 'Best of Julio Cortazar Short Stories', you can expect to encounter stories that play with time, perception, and identity. His writing style is often complex and rich, drawing readers into strange and thought - provoking worlds. For example, in some of his stories, he might start with an ordinary situation like a person waiting at a bus stop, but then gradually introduce elements that make the reader question the nature of reality around them.
One of the best Margaret Atwood short stories is 'Happy Endings'. It's a brilliant piece that deconstructs the idea of traditional story endings. It shows how different paths in a relationship can lead to the same final state in a rather satirical way.
The 'Best of Leo Tolstoy Short Stories' offers a diverse range of tales. His stories are set in different social contexts, from the upper classes to the peasants. In stories like 'The Kreutzer Sonata', he examines relationships and passion. Tolstoy's ability to capture the essence of human emotions and relationships within the short story format is remarkable. His use of language is so precise that it draws you into the world of his characters and makes you think deeply about the themes he presents.
Some of the best short stories in Timberline Review might be those that explore complex human emotions. For example, stories that deal with love and loss often stand out. They can make the reader feel a deep connection to the characters.
There are likely to be many. For instance, Ernest Hemingway. His concise and impactful writing style would make his short stories a great addition. Also, F. Scott Fitzgerald, known for his vivid descriptions of the Jazz Age. Another could be Raymond Carver, who often wrote about the ordinary lives of people in a very profound way.
Wells' 'The War of the Worlds' is also a masterpiece. It describes an alien invasion of Earth, which was a very original concept at the time. The story creates a sense of dread and helplessness as the Martians wreak havoc on humanity. It's a great example of Wells' ability to create engaging and thought - provoking science - fiction.
The collection is great. Many of Poe's short stories in it are considered classics. 'The Fall of the House of Usher' is a prime example. It's filled with gothic elements like the decaying mansion and the strange relationship between the characters. The language Poe uses is rich and descriptive, painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind.
Rabindranath Tagore's short stories are a rich tapestry of human emotions. His best ones often explore themes like love, sacrifice, and the human condition. For example, 'Kabuliwala' is a heart - touching story that shows the bond between a Pashtun fruit - seller and a little girl. It beautifully portrays how strangers can form deep connections.