I'm not sure specifically which one is George Saunders' first short story as he has a body of work. But generally, his short stories are known for their unique blend of humor and deep insights into the human condition.
It might have his unique sense of humor. Saunders is known for using humor to tell serious stories, so this could be present in his first short story as well.
In my opinion, 'The Tenth of December' is also among his best. It's a story that beautifully explores themes of kindness, mortality, and the human condition. Saunders has a way of creating complex characters that you can't help but be drawn into their lives and experiences within a relatively short narrative.
The short stories often have a touch of absurdity. For example, in many of his works, he might create out - of - the - ordinary situations that make you stop and think. This absurdity is used to great effect to comment on society.
George Saunders often uses unique narrative structures and unexpected twists to tell a story. His approach keeps the readers engaged and on their toes.
One of the highly regarded George Saunders novels is 'Lincoln in the Bardo'. It's a unique and imaginative work that weaves together different voices and perspectives in a really engaging way.
George Saunders' first story might stand out because it was the origin of his distinct voice. In this initial story, he could have started to develop his ability to tell stories that are both humorous and deeply poignant. It might have been a foundation for his later works that often blend satire and empathy. He may have experimented with different narrative techniques that would later be refined and perfected in his subsequent stories, making this first story a significant step in his writing journey.
One possible main theme could be the spirit of giving. Christmas often emphasizes selflessness and sharing, and Saunders might explore how characters embody this through their actions and interactions in the story.