Quote of the day: 

 You know you've read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend. -Paul Sweeney 



There are many great short stories out there and as it is a form that I enjoy, what better way to start the year than with a selection of short stories from Ernest Hemingway, who was an American novelist and short story writer well known for his understated and adventurous style of writing. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature in 1954. His public image and style influenced later generations with many of his books considered classics of American literature.

First published in 1927, 'Men Without Women' written by Hemingway is a collection of 14 short stories -132 pages of reading. The way the stories are brought to life is outstanding. Each story shoots like an arrow and hits you square in the face. Hemingway's men are bullfighters, war veterans, boxers, hard drinkers and gunmen, often reflecting the period back when things were different. Masculine toughness and feminine sweetness. Stories and events laid bare with endings that ask a lot more questions than the story would allow, leaving you either baffled or enlightened.

It is the ability to get lost in the stories and to feel what the characters feel, to see what they seemingly perceive, to grasp the underlying nuances and expressions while imagining the time and period it was written in-all these elements magnify the stories told.

And for such a small book the dialogue is straight forward. Simple stories but with unique subject lines and memorable characters. It certainly it is certainly a great book that has stood the test of time and definitely one to have on any bookshelf -to return to at a later date like an unforgotten well of water.


Are you reading anything at the moment? Do share.



 Peace. Love. Light* 


Current Listen: David Bowie - Let's Dance