In my opinion, 'The Steppe' can be considered one of the best. It has a vivid description of the vast steppe landscape which almost becomes a character in itself. The journey of the young boy through the steppe is not just a physical one but also a journey of self - discovery. The way Chekhov writes about nature and human emotions in relation to it is truly remarkable.
I would say 'The Kiss'. It's a short but powerful story. The main character's experience of an accidental kiss and how it affects him is so well - crafted. It shows Chekhov's ability to explore the human psyche. The character's over - thinking, his hopes, and his ultimate disappointment are all very relatable. It's a story that stays with you long after you've read it.
'A Dreary Story' could also be considered the best. This story gives a deep look into the mind of an old and dying professor. It's a complex exploration of regret, aging, and the meaning of life. Chekhov doesn't shy away from showing the harsh realities of old age and the professor's self - awareness of his own fading existence makes it a very poignant and profound read.
I think 'The Lady with the Dog' could be seen as his best. The story delves deep into the human psyche regarding love and morality. The two main characters are both married, yet they fall in love in a way that challenges the traditional notions of love and fidelity. It shows Chekhov's ability to handle complex and controversial topics with great finesse.
I consider 'Nightfall' to be the best. It's so impactful because it makes you think about how our perception of the world is shaped by what we're used to. The people in the story are so unprepared for the darkness that it causes mass hysteria. It shows Asimov's ability to create a vivid and thought - provoking world in a short story.
Maybe it's because the plot moves too slowly or the characters aren't engaging enough for some people.
One of the best Russian short stories is 'The Lady with the Dog' by Anton Chekhov. It's great because it realistically portrays a love affair in a society full of constraints. The characters' emotions are subtly and deeply depicted, making the readers feel their inner turmoil.
Many consider 'The Snows of Kilimanjaro' as one of his best. The vivid descriptions of the African landscape and the protagonist's internal struggle are captivating. It combines elements of adventure, regret, and the approach of death in a very engaging way.
I would say 'Victory Lap' is a top contender. This story is a masterclass in character development. We have three main characters - Alison, Kyle, and the kidnapper. Saunders weaves their perspectives together in a way that builds tension and explores themes of innocence, danger, and the unexpected turns life can take. It's a story that stays with you long after you've read it. The way he captures the naivete of the teenagers and the menace of the kidnapper is really remarkable.
I think 'Rape Fantasies' is often considered very good. It's a powerful exploration of female sexuality and the way society views women. The main character's thoughts about rape fantasies are both disturbing and eye - opening, as Atwood uses her to challenge common misconceptions. It's short but packs a big punch.
I think 'The Dream of a Ridiculous Man' is a great Dostoevsky short story. It's about a man who has lost all hope and decides to commit suicide. But then he has a dream where he experiences a utopian world. This story is remarkable as it shows Dostoevsky's ability to blend the spiritual and the psychological. The man's journey in the dream makes him realize the value of life and love, and it has a very strong moral undertone about redemption and the importance of human connection.
One of the best magical realism short stories is 'A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings' by Gabriel García Márquez. It combines the ordinary world of a coastal village with the extraordinary presence of an angel - like old man. The villagers' reactions to this strange being range from curiosity to exploitation, showing how humans interact with the unknown. The story blurs the lines between reality and the magical, making readers question what is real and what is not.
Definitely 'The Laughing Man'. It's so good because of its complex narrative. The multiple layers of the story - the boys' experience at camp and the story of the Laughing Man - create a rich tapestry. It makes the reader think about how we create and perceive heroes. Also, the way Salinger builds suspense and mystery around the Laughing Man's true identity is really captivating, making it a standout short story.