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Selected Short Works By Henry James
Henry James explores human character with an elegant realism. This collection offers three of his most popular shorter works. In "The Aspern Papers" cultures, generations, and genders clash as a literary historian tries to pry a packet of letters, written by an important American poet, from the woman to whom they were sent. "The Jolly Corner" and "The Beast in the Jungle" feature characters who encounter apparitions that may express aspects of their hidden selves.
343 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1908
17 people want to read
About the author
Henry James
4,684 books3,980 followersHenry James was an American-British author. He is regarded as a key transitional figure between literary realism and literary modernism, and is considered by many to be among the greatest novelists in the English language. He was the son of Henry James Sr. and the brother of philosopher and psychologist William James and diarist Alice James.
He is best known for his novels dealing with the social and marital interplay between émigré Americans, the English, and continental Europeans, such as The Portrait of a Lady. His later works, such as The Ambassadors, The Wings of the Dove and The Golden Bowl were increasingly experimental. In describing the internal states of mind and social dynamics of his characters, James often wrote in a style in which ambiguous or contradictory motives and impressions were overlaid or juxtaposed in the discussion of a character's psyche. For their unique ambiguity, as well as for other aspects of their composition, his late works have been compared to Impressionist painting.
His novella The Turn of the Screw has garnered a reputation as the most analysed and ambiguous ghost story in the English language and remains his most widely adapted work in other media. He wrote other highly regarded ghost stories, such as "The Jolly Corner".
James published articles and books of criticism, travel, biography, autobiography, and plays. Born in the United States, James largely relocated to Europe as a young man, and eventually settled in England, becoming a British citizen in 1915, a year before his death. James was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1911, 1912, and 1916. Jorge Luis Borges said "I have visited some literatures of East and West; I have compiled an encyclopedic compendium of fantastic literature; I have translated Kafka, Melville, and Bloy; I know of no stranger work than that of Henry James."
He is best known for his novels dealing with the social and marital interplay between émigré Americans, the English, and continental Europeans, such as The Portrait of a Lady. His later works, such as The Ambassadors, The Wings of the Dove and The Golden Bowl were increasingly experimental. In describing the internal states of mind and social dynamics of his characters, James often wrote in a style in which ambiguous or contradictory motives and impressions were overlaid or juxtaposed in the discussion of a character's psyche. For their unique ambiguity, as well as for other aspects of their composition, his late works have been compared to Impressionist painting.
His novella The Turn of the Screw has garnered a reputation as the most analysed and ambiguous ghost story in the English language and remains his most widely adapted work in other media. He wrote other highly regarded ghost stories, such as "The Jolly Corner".
James published articles and books of criticism, travel, biography, autobiography, and plays. Born in the United States, James largely relocated to Europe as a young man, and eventually settled in England, becoming a British citizen in 1915, a year before his death. James was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1911, 1912, and 1916. Jorge Luis Borges said "I have visited some literatures of East and West; I have compiled an encyclopedic compendium of fantastic literature; I have translated Kafka, Melville, and Bloy; I know of no stranger work than that of Henry James."
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
August 9, 2023
Step into the captivating world of Henry James, a master storyteller known for his exceptional literary craftsmanship. Delve into a collection of his finest short stories that traverse the depths of human emotions, unravel the complexities of relationships, and transport readers to a bygone era. Prepare to be enchanted, challenged, and moved by the timeless narratives penned by one of literature's most celebrated authors.
Within the pages of this collection, Henry James explores the intricacies of the human heart and mind. He presents characters grappling with inner conflicts, societal expectations, and the enigmatic nature of existence. These stories pose profound questions about love, morality, identity, and the ever-elusive pursuit of truth.
"Selected Short Stories of Henry James" promises an enriching literary journey that offers a profound understanding of the human condition. As readers immerse themselves in James' exquisite prose and intricate narratives, they will gain new perspectives on the complexities of life and human relationships. The benefit lies in the opportunity to delve into the inner workings of the human psyche through the eyes of a literary genius.
This anthology brings together some of Henry James' most celebrated short stories, showcasing the breadth of his storytelling prowess. From the haunting psychological depths of "The Turn of the Screw" to the tender exploration of innocence in "Daisy Miller," each tale is a finely woven tapestry of emotions and insights. The collection spans various themes, genres, and settings, promising an eclectic reading experience that will resonate with readers of all tastes.
Henry James, a towering figure in the realm of literature, is renowned for his exquisite prose, deep psychological insights, and ability to portray the intricacies of human relationships. His contributions to the world of fiction have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. As one of the most celebrated authors in history, James' authority and reputation are unquestionable.
As readers embark on this literary journey, they will find themselves drawn into the narratives, forming intimate connections with the characters and their dilemmas. Each story beckons readers to delve further, compelling them to explore the rich layers of meaning and unravel the mysteries crafted by the master storyteller.
The tone of "Selected Short Stories of Henry James" is one of introspection, elegance, and intellectual depth. James' prose carries a sense of sophistication that transports readers to the Victorian and Edwardian eras, while his keen observation of human nature lays bare the complexities of the human heart.
Although penned in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henry James' stories remain remarkably relevant to contemporary readers. The universal themes of love, identity, morality, and the human experience transcend time, making the book a timeless and insightful exploration of the human condition.
Henry James' ability to craft nuanced characters and intricate plots draws readers into a world where emotions simmer beneath the surface, waiting to be unveiled. The stories challenge readers to ponder the complexities of human behaviour, inviting them to reflect on their own lives and relationships.
"Selected Short Stories of Henry James" is not just a literary anthology; it is a transformative reading experience that leaves a lasting impression on readers' minds and hearts. The timeless themes, the evocative prose, and the profound insights into human nature make this collection a literary treasure that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
Within the pages of this collection, Henry James explores the intricacies of the human heart and mind. He presents characters grappling with inner conflicts, societal expectations, and the enigmatic nature of existence. These stories pose profound questions about love, morality, identity, and the ever-elusive pursuit of truth.
"Selected Short Stories of Henry James" promises an enriching literary journey that offers a profound understanding of the human condition. As readers immerse themselves in James' exquisite prose and intricate narratives, they will gain new perspectives on the complexities of life and human relationships. The benefit lies in the opportunity to delve into the inner workings of the human psyche through the eyes of a literary genius.
This anthology brings together some of Henry James' most celebrated short stories, showcasing the breadth of his storytelling prowess. From the haunting psychological depths of "The Turn of the Screw" to the tender exploration of innocence in "Daisy Miller," each tale is a finely woven tapestry of emotions and insights. The collection spans various themes, genres, and settings, promising an eclectic reading experience that will resonate with readers of all tastes.
Henry James, a towering figure in the realm of literature, is renowned for his exquisite prose, deep psychological insights, and ability to portray the intricacies of human relationships. His contributions to the world of fiction have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. As one of the most celebrated authors in history, James' authority and reputation are unquestionable.
As readers embark on this literary journey, they will find themselves drawn into the narratives, forming intimate connections with the characters and their dilemmas. Each story beckons readers to delve further, compelling them to explore the rich layers of meaning and unravel the mysteries crafted by the master storyteller.
The tone of "Selected Short Stories of Henry James" is one of introspection, elegance, and intellectual depth. James' prose carries a sense of sophistication that transports readers to the Victorian and Edwardian eras, while his keen observation of human nature lays bare the complexities of the human heart.
Although penned in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henry James' stories remain remarkably relevant to contemporary readers. The universal themes of love, identity, morality, and the human experience transcend time, making the book a timeless and insightful exploration of the human condition.
Henry James' ability to craft nuanced characters and intricate plots draws readers into a world where emotions simmer beneath the surface, waiting to be unveiled. The stories challenge readers to ponder the complexities of human behaviour, inviting them to reflect on their own lives and relationships.
"Selected Short Stories of Henry James" is not just a literary anthology; it is a transformative reading experience that leaves a lasting impression on readers' minds and hearts. The timeless themes, the evocative prose, and the profound insights into human nature make this collection a literary treasure that will stay with readers long after they turn the final page.
August 18, 2023
I’ve had the itch to re-read The Beast in the Jungle for a month now, and then realized I own it on my bookshelf in my apartment! I typically don’t lounge around reading Henry James, but today I did… for the entire afternoon. I have thought about The Beast in the Jungle everyday since I first read it in 2014. That’s not an exaggeration. I cannot name another work that haunts my thoughts so deeply and regularly as this one. It’s what I refer to in my darkest moments of existential dread, and lately, I’ve been feeling a lot of that; not being present, not actively living, not knowing what I’m doing with my life. I’ve related to John Marcher my entire adulthood, even when I consciously know I should practice things that allow me to evolve into May Bartram. I’m no where close to having May’s awareness and serenity, but reading this gave me the mental health closure I needed. It’s so fucking sad but so beautiful. Be present and find ways to love the life you get to lead. <3
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews