Short stories 191-200

“The Pier” by Mori Ogwai. An elegant story about the sorrow of parting from a loved one and not being able to express one’s feelings. Recommended.

“A Domestic Animal” by Shimazaki Toson. A heart-warming tale about how one’s appearance can affect people’s attitudes. Recommended. (The link will take you to a page from which you can jump to the book containing the translations of this story and the previous one, in various different formats, including pdf and Kindle).

Here end the Japanese tales, and we jump back to Europe, to The Netherlands.

“The Story of Saïdjah” by Eduard Douwes Dekker. Originally from the novel Max Havelaar. What at first seems to be a simple story about young lovers turns out to be scathing criticism of the behaviour of the Dutch colonialists in Java. Recommended. (The same translation, only the version I read was edited to make it shorter).

“Grandfather’s Birthday Present” by Herman Heijermans. Originally from Sketches. A lovely, funny story about a surprise birthday present. Recommended. (This appears to be the same translation).

Next stop: Hungary.

“The Invisible Wound” by Karoly Kisfaludi. A chilling tale of jealousy and its consequences. Recommended. This appears to be the same translation).

“Familiar” by Lynn Viehl. Free short story, published online by the author. An interesting take on the Dr. Dolittle theme. I read this at work one lunch hour and decided to include it in the short story challenge.

“A Ball” by Maurus Jokai. A funny little letter written as if by a frivolous young lady (one related in spirit to Lydia Bennet).

“The Green Fly” by Kalman Mikszath. A funny story about reverse psychology in action. Recommended.

“The Silver Hilt” by Ferenc Molnar. A humorous tale about a clever swindler. Recommended.

Now to the Russians:

“The Snow Storm” by Alexander Pushkin. An unlikely but well told little drama that would suit very well as a source for a short play or TV film. (same translation)

Comments

Book 7: Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuściński (reading notes)

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How to make a simple origami bookmark

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Bibliophile discusses Van Dine’s rules for writing detective stories

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Reading in Reykjavík

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