Back in the World (published in 1985) is Tobias Wolff's second collection of short stories. The other two collections are In the Garden of the North American Martyrs (1981) and The Night in Question (1997). Overall, I believe that Back in the World lacks the intensity of the other two collections. Since it's Tobias Wolff, there's nothing truly unreadable, but some of the stories just seemed underwhelming to me. What I liked about this book is the unity of feeling. I'm fairly certain that this is a book about solitude and the various forms it takes in the lives of the characters. Every story is filled with loneliness. My personal favorites were: 1. Coming Attractions. I had actually read this story a while ago and it had stuck with me. There were times when I'd wonder where I read that great story about the girl cleaning the cinema, finding the glasses, waiting for her boss, and making strange phone calls. So I was very happy when I discovered it was the first story in the book. 2. Desert Breakdown, 1968. In this story and in The Rich Brother, I sensed a strong Flannery O'Connor influence in the brutality of the characters' actions or intentions, although Wolff's characters never reach the extremes that O'Connor's did. 4. Our Story Begins. I didn't fully understand the ending of this one, but I really liked the overall atmosphere. I'm really curious to see how many of my favorites from the three collections made it into the 2008 book of collected stories, which is next on my reading list.

Short stories have a remarkable power. They have the ability to create entire worlds that are both captivating and immersive.

These worlds often draw the reader into the disparity between dreams and reality. In many of these stories, we see characters who have big dreams and aspirations, but who are faced with the harsh realities of life.

However, what makes these stories truly powerful is that hope, courage, and values persist even in the face of adversity. We see characters who refuse to give up on their dreams, who find the courage to face their fears, and who坚守 their values no matter what.

These short stories serve as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, and that with courage and坚定的 values, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our dreams.

Another fantastic short story collection by Tobias Wolff has once again graced the literary world.

I am simply in awe of Wolff's talent and would eagerly devour anything he chooses to publish. In fact, I'm not exaggerating when I say I would even read Tobias Wolff's grocery list!

This collection is truly remarkable. If there was a four and one-half star designation, without a doubt, I would have awarded it to this book. However, since such a rating doesn't exist, and as much as I wanted to, I couldn't quite give it a full five stars. Nevertheless, make no mistake, this book is still terrific.

Wolff's ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking stories is second to none. Each tale in this collection draws the reader in and takes them on a journey filled with emotion, depth, and unexpected twists.

Whether you're a long-time fan of Tobias Wolff or new to his work, this short story collection is a must-read. It will leave you captivated and longing for more of his literary genius.

A collection of truly enigmatic stories awaits the reader. In these tales, much is left undisclosed, leaving an air of mystery that lingers long after the last page is turned. The stories are open-ended, mirroring the complexity and ambiguity of real life. They are the work of a talented writer who has a remarkable ability to craft narratives that engage and intrigue.

This collection is not one to be raced through in a frenzy. Instead, it is meant to be savored and re-read. Each time, new details may emerge, new interpretations may be possible. It is a collection that rewards careful consideration and reflection.

Whether you are a lover of mystery, a seeker of thought-provoking tales, or simply someone who enjoys a well-written story, this collection is sure to captivate you. So, take your time, immerse yourself in the world of these enigmatic stories, and discover the hidden depths that lie within.

This is some of my favorite writing ever.

After delving into this remarkable collection of short stories, I was so captivated that I promptly reached for another book penned by the same talented author.

I am truly a huge fan.

The stories in this collection were like little gems, each one shining with its own unique charm and brilliance.

The author's ability to craft engaging characters and weave intricate plots left me in awe.

With every turn of the page, I was drawn deeper into the fictional worlds created by the author.

I can't wait to explore more of their works and see what other literary treasures they have in store for me.

It's safe to say that this author has become one of my all-time favorites, and I will be eagerly anticipating their future releases.

In 1987, the notebook was filled with sharp and clear 'dirty realist' stories. The language used was of great vigour and clarity, as if it had its sleeves rolled up, ready to tackle the gritty realities of life. The prose was spare yet telling, painting vivid pictures with just a few words.

For instance, in one story, the yuppie was offered a bong at the garage and exclaimed, 'Gracious that's righteous weed'. The mechanics made fun of him, but in the end, the yuppie managed to win the car from them.

In 'Desert Breakdown', the husband was tempted to run off with the dubious film crew in a hearse.

An estranged priest felt hollow and stood up, looking at his feet side by side a long way down on the rug.

Another character saw her eyes lit up from within, perhaps due to cocaine use. These stories captured the essence of a certain time and place, with all its flaws and contradictions.

I have a deep affection for Tobias Wolff. However, when it comes to this particular book, it is evident that he was truly experimenting with form and still in the process of ironing out the details.

The stories within do have certain moments of profound insight that manage to capture the reader's attention. Nevertheless, on the whole, the overly complicated frame devices employed in the stories tend to overshadow the actual writing.

It seems as if Wolff was more focused on constructing these elaborate frameworks rather than allowing the natural flow and beauty of the writing to shine through. As a result, while the book does have its闪光点, it ultimately falls short of achieving the full potential that Wolff is capable of.

Perhaps with more refinement and a greater emphasis on the essence of the stories themselves, this work could have been a masterpiece. But as it stands, it remains a somewhat flawed yet still interesting exploration of form and narrative.