Nathaniel Hawthorne: Tales and Sketches

Lots of truly amazing stuff can be found within these pages. The layout of this particular edition, although comprehensive, leans more towards a scholarly style rather than being easily readable. One might as well go ahead and skip the chronological framework and instead focus on reading his best 9 or 12 or even 20 stories along with the random gels. Interestingly, even the editions that were published during his lifetime are rather broken, scattered, and arranged by date. As a result, a preface could potentially be 300 pages removed from the first story. However, despite these drawbacks, the stories are truly excellent in that strange allegorical way. They are an absolute must-read. One cannot afford to miss out on the unique and captivating world that these stories offer.

Hawthorne, with his engaging writing that delves into the supernatural and gothic world, is indeed one of the prominent exponents of this style in the early half of the 18th century. His works have had a profound influence on numerous other writers who followed him.

Take "Young Master Brown" for instance. Many movie scenes we encounter today might have been inspired by this tale written in 1835. In it, the protagonist observes the most ordinary people in society, ranging from pastors and priests to politicians and merchants, from acquaintances to unknown pedestrians in a city. As he watches them closely, he realizes that they are either devils or adherents of a satanic cult. I recall, for example, "The Devil's Advocate" or a TV adaptation of an episode of "Grimm".

In this tale, the characters' names are symbolically related, serving as a direct metaphor for the story itself, similar to "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman. Here, we find a woman named Faith and the protagonist Goodman.

From the dark and mysterious adventure of a satanic cult, with the uncertainty of whether it is a dream or reality, and the participation of a kind of secret society with the most unlikely members, the author poses two profound reflections: Is the greater evil that which resides within people? And can guilt and obsession intoxicate an individual's mind in a radical way until death?

I just finished reading "The Artist of the Beautiful." It is an incredibly beautiful story that follows one man's life-long pursuit of creating his dream of the beautiful. The sacrifices he makes and the obstacles he overcomes in achieving that dream are truly inspiring.

The author has masterfully crafted a tale that not only showcases the artist's unwavering dedication but also delves into the deeper meaning and significance of beauty. As I read, I was transported into the artist's world, experiencing his joys and sorrows, his moments of inspiration and doubt.

This story is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of art and the human spirit. It makes you think about what it means to pursue a dream and the lengths we are willing to go to make it a reality. I will definitely be reading it again to fully appreciate the beauty that the artist has created with his words.

The collection of works presented here is truly a remarkable one. It includes a diverse range of stories and sketches that offer a glimpse into different worlds and experiences. From the mysterious "The Hollow of Tree Hills" to the thought-provoking "The Minister's Black Veil", each piece has its own unique charm and significance.

Authors like Sir William Phips, Mrs. Hutchinson, and Dr. Bullivant have contributed their talents to this compilation, creating a rich tapestry of literature. The works span various genres, including horror, romance, and adventure, ensuring there is something for every reader.

Some of the titles, such as "Young Goodman Brown" and "Wakefield", are well-known classics that have stood the test of time. Others, like "The Ambitious Guest" and "A Rill from the Town Pump", may be less familiar but are equally engaging.

The completion dates of these works, ranging from 04.16.23 to 06.26.24, add an interesting historical dimension to the collection. It allows us to see how the literary landscape evolved during this period and how different authors responded to the cultural and social changes of their times.

Overall, this collection is a treasure trove of literary gems that is sure to delight and inspire readers of all ages.