The best short stories of 1917, and the yearbook of the American short story

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

20872

Title

The best short stories of 1917, and the yearbook of the American short story

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Edited by Edward J. O'Brien, this 1918 anthology showcases the diverse and evolving American short story. Featuring works by emerging talents like Edna Ferber and Susan Glaspell alongside established writers, the collection explores themes of democracy, social change, and human nature. With stories ranging from the intimate domestic sphere to the broader societal landscape, it offers a vivid snapshot of American fiction at a pivotal moment in its history.

Summary up to 500 words

Edited by Edward J. O'Brien, *The Best Short Stories of 1917, and the Yearbook of the American Short Story* presents a vibrant collection of twenty-one narratives that define a new era in American literature. In his introduction, O'Brien argues that American fiction is a growing art form characterized by variety and a democratic spirit rather than rigid formulas. He posits that while the prose may lack the polished sophistication of older European traditions, it possesses a fresh naivety and an acute alertness to the substance of human life. The volume reflects the fusion of diverse racial heritages into a national unity, capturing the social tensions, the impact of war, and the shifting roles of women and minorities in the late 1910s. The anthology features a wide array of voices, including Edwina Stanton Babcock's *The Excursion*, which depicts a coastal community navigating religious fervor and personal crises; Thomas Beer's *Onnie*, a study of family dynamics; and Maxwell Struthers Burt's *A Cup of Tea*. Notable entries include Susan Glaspell's *A Jury of Her Peers*, a powerful critique of gender roles and justice, and Edna Ferber's *The Gay Old Dog*, which explores the complexities of aging and loyalty. Irvin S. Cobb's *Boys Will Be Boys* captures the innocence and mischief of youth, while other stories like *The Emperor of Elam* and *Rainbow Pete* delve into themes of identity and societal change. Beyond the fiction, the book serves as a comprehensive yearbook, offering critical summaries of the best short stories of 1917, an index of publications, and biographical rolls of honor for American and foreign authors. Through these varied narratives and analytical tools, the volume captures the essence of American life during a transformative period. It offers readers a rich tapestry of perspectives that illustrate the evolution of a distinct American literary voice, balancing the limitations of a developing technique with the boundless energy of a new national consciousness.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Short Stories
• American Fiction
• Bibliography
• Indexes