Reproduction of the original: The Mantle and Other Stories by Nicholas Gogol

As a novel-writer and a dramatist, Gogol appears to me to deserve a minute study, and if the knowledge of Russian were more widely spread, he could not fail to obtain in Europe a reputation equal to that of the best English humorists. A delicate and close observer, quick to detect the absurd, bold in exposing, but inclined to push his fun too far, Gogol is in the first place a very lively satirist. He is merciless towards fools and rascals, but he has only one weapon at his disposalÑirony. This is a weapon which is too severe to use against the merely absurd, and on the other hand it is not sharp enough for the punishment of crime; and it is against crime that Gogol too often uses it. His comic vein is always too near the farcical, and his mirth is hardly contagious. If sometimes he makes his reader laugh, he still leaves in his mind a feeling of bitterness and indignation; his satires do not avenge society, they only make it angry. As a painter of manners, Gogol excels in familiar scenes. He is akin to Teniers and Callot. We feel as though we had seen and lived with his characters, for he shows us their eccentricities, their nervous habits, their slightest gestures. One lisps, another mispronounces his words, and a third hisses because he has lost a front tooth. Unfortunately Gogol is so absorbed in this minute study of details that he too often forgets to subordinate them to the main action of the story. To tell the truth, there is no ordered plan in his works, andÑa strange trait in an author who sets up as a realistÑhe takes no care to preserve an atmosphere of probability. His most carefully painted scenes are clumsily connectedÑthey begin and end abruptly; often the author's great carelessness in construction destroys, as though wantonly, the illusion produced by the truth of his descriptions and the naturalness of his conversations.

Explore the Literary Genius of Nikolai Gogol with this Captivating 2 Ebook Combo Embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Russian literature with this enthralling collection of Nikolai Gogol's masterpieces, offering a profound exploration of human nature, society, and the human condition. Book 1: The Mantle, and Other Stories Immerse yourself in a world of vivid characters and poignant narratives as Gogol presents a collection of short stories that showcase his unparalleled talent for blending humor, satire, and social commentary. From the absurdity of bureaucracy to the struggles of the common man, Gogol's stories resonate with timeless themes and universal truths. Book 2: Dead Souls Step into the satirical world of provincial Russia as Gogol introduces us to Chichikov, a charming but morally dubious protagonist who embarks on a quest to acquire "dead souls" – the names of deceased serfs still listed on tax rolls. Through Chichikov's misadventures, Gogol offers a scathing critique of the corruption and moral decay of Russian society, while also exploring themes of identity, redemption, and the search for meaning. Embark on a Journey Through the Heart of Russian Literature: Can Gogol's Tales Illuminate the Human Soul? Join the Literary Expedition! As you delve into Gogol's timeless tales, ponder the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of society. Can we find redemption in the face of corruption and despair? The answers lie within these profound works, inviting you to explore the depths of the human soul and the mysteries of the Russian psyche. Unlock the Gates of Literary Splendor - Begin Your Journey Today!

"People who'd read Mrs. Parsley Makes a Delivery demanded more stories," author Julian Padowicz explains. Mrs. Parsley is a good witch. Only a tiny percentage of witches are actually evil, she says, but they, unfortunately, get most of the publicity. She, herself, uses her limited magical powers to help Santa, the Tooth Fairy, and the various fairy godmothers, when they get overloaded. But, because her magical powers are limited, and she can't fly in and out through closed windows, turn pumpkins into coaches, or work her "smart phone," Mrs. Parsley is often forced to improvise. As reviews of the first book will attest, the resulting adventures are of interest and amusement to adults as well as children. Stories included in this collection: Mrs. Parsley Did This Snowballs Mrs. Parsley Helps on Valentine's Day Mrs. Parsley Talks to Zeke Mrs. Parsley and the Hunter Mrs. Parsley Pulls a Code Red Mrs. Parsley and Patti Schroeder The Cat on the Mantle Mrs. Parsley Attends Benny's Birthday Party Mrs. Parsley and the Squirrel Mrs. Parsley Visits the Bergs Mrs. Parsley and the House Without Doors Mrs. Parsley Meets the Sandman

A dazzling, lively, and masterful collection of short stories that is the recipient of the inaugural Holy Cow! Press "First Fiction" prize. Nearly every story has been previously published; three have won the Tamarack Award, the Waasnode Short Fiction Prize, and the Moment/Karma short fiction prize. With humor and insightfulness, the topics range from motherhood, Jewish American culture, marriage/divorce/old age.