Short Stories
Liam O'FlahertyWhile known for many stories, O'Flaherty's "The Sniper" is iconic and brilliant example an author's use of purposeful ambiguity. Can you spot it? More importantly, can you offer an importance it plays in the text?
|
Shirley JacksonJackson is a pioneering woman author. Unique in her style, she was both praised and critiqued for its dark undertones. Ultimately, the short story that catapulted her career is "The Lottery," that is mark of diction preciseness.
|
Guy de MaupassantWhat a mustache, eh!? Besides the amazing ability to grow facial locks, Maupassant could also develop lasting symbolism in a story. One of his most famous story and symbols comes from a story titled "The Necklace," see what you think.
|
Rick DeMarinis and Molly Giles
Both of the above authors are skilled writers, and their adept pen mastery is demonstrated by the brevity of their tales. The fewer the words the more important each one becomes, and so is the placement of those words. Read DeMarinis' "Your Fears Are Justified" here and Giles' "The Poet's Husband" here.
UNIVERSAL THEMES
A universal theme is an idea that applies to anyone regardless of cultural differences, geographic location or time period. Universal themes is the collective conscious in action. It is a central idea about the human condition.
Scarlet Ibis by James Hurst Cranes by Hwang Sun-won Liberty by Julia Alvarez
Scarlet Ibis by James Hurst Cranes by Hwang Sun-won Liberty by Julia Alvarez