Carver's first collection brought a new lease on life to the short story. His pared-down style, which later became his trademark, revealed the coexistence of humour and tragedy within the hearts of ordinary people. This collection won him a readership that expanded with each subsequent outstanding collection of stories, poems, and essays published in the last eleven years of his life.
Having held this for so long, this visit feels like a complete reboot. Carver wrote in a way similar to how Hopper painted, perhaps the connection lies in the diner, combined with spartanism and, of course, voyeurism.
The collection includes stories such as "Fat," "Neighbours," "Note," and many more. Each story offers a unique perspective on the human condition.
Some of his other notable works include "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love," "Cathedral," and "Where I'm Calling From: New and Selected Stories."
Carver's writing continues to captivate readers and inspire new generations of writers.