Welcome to the Writer's Library, dedicated to the classic short stories, novels, poetry and books on writing. Learn to write by studying the classics. The collection provides readers with a perspective of the world from some of the 18th and 19th century's most talented writers. "You learn by writing short stories. Keep writing short stories. The money’s in novels, but writing short stories keeps your writing lean and pointed." – Larry Niven
(Audio)
The Time Machine is a novel by H. G. Wells, first published in 1895, later made into two films of the same title. This novel is generally credited with the popularization of the concept of time travel using a vehicle that allows an operator to travel purposefully and selectively. (Summary from wikipedia.org)
In the realm of gothic literature and macabre poetry, few figures have captivated readers and delved into the endless depths of human despair quite like Edgar Allan Poe. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Poe's works continue to resonate with audiences, churning emotions of fear and fascination in equal measure. Among his numerous masterpieces, "The Raven" holds a special place as it perfectly captures Poe's ability to navigate the sinister realms of the human psyche.
First published in 1845 "The Raven" stands as a testament to Poe's unique brilliance as a poet and storyteller. With its haunting rhythm, vivid imagery, and melancholic tone, the poem has become a classic, imprinting itself deeply within the annals of literature. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to the universally relatable themes it explores: grief, loss, and the human longing for answers in the face of immovable despair.
In "The Raven," Poe introduces us to a narrator whose grief over the loss of his beloved Lenore drives him to the brink of madness. As he wrestles with his own tormented thoughts a mysterious raven appears at his chamber door its presence a haunting symbol of the narrator's internal anguish and unending sorrow. Through the narrator's interactions with the raven, Poe exposes the fragility of the human mind and its desperate desire for solace and meaning.
Poe's skill in crafting atmosphere and evoking emotions is unparalleled. He weaves a captivating spell, drawing his readers deep into the narrator's world until we too feel the weight of his sorrow and the undying torment of the raven's relentless croak, "Nevermore." With every line, Poe masterfully builds tension, leading us through a labyrinth of darkness and despair, leaving us haunted long after the final verse.
As we immerse ourselves in the haunting verses of "The Raven," we enter a realm where reality merges with the supernatural and the boundaries between life and death blur. Poe compels us to confront our own mortality and grapple with the specters of grief that lurk within us all. Through the universal language of poetry, he invites us to confront our deepest fears, engage with our inner demons, and ponder the mysteries that lie beyond mortal understanding.
In this edition of "The Raven," we invite you to embark on a journey through the haunting corridors of Edgar Allan Poe's imagination. Allow yourself to be captivated, unsettled, and perhaps transformed by the power of his words. As you delve into the verses, prepare to be immersed in an experience that transcends time and space, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.
May you confront the raven within and emerge with a renewed appreciation for the eternal beauty and darkness that reside in the human condition.
Olivia Salter
09/17/2023
In the vast realm of literature, few authors possess the ability to transport readers into the intricate tapestry of a bygone era quite like Edith Wharton. With her keen observational skills and prodigious talent for storytelling, Wharton effortlessly captures the essence of a particular time and place, showcasing the hopes, dreams, and societal constraints of her characters with extraordinary clarity. In "The Age of Innocence," Wharton offers a piercing examination of New York City's elite society in the late nineteenth century, a world teeming with opulence, ambition, and unspoken rules that dictated every facet of an individual's life.
Published in 1920, long after Wharton herself was born into this very world she so vividly depicts, "The Age of Innocence" serves as a nuanced exploration of the tensions between societal expectations and personal desires. Wharton dissects the subtle nuances of this tightly knit society where appearances are meticulously maintained, scandals are whispered behind closed doors, and conventions masquerade as tradition. Through her masterful storytelling, she unveils the plight of Newland Archer, a young and ambitious lawyer facing the heart-wrenching conflict between his passion for the unconventional Countess Ellen Olenska and the staunch social customs that threaten to confine him.
Wharton's prose is exquisite, evoking a powerful sense of time and place. Her descriptions are both precise and evocative, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in the lavish parties, the extravagant attire, and the intricate social rituals that mark the characters' lives. Through her keen eye for detail, she paints a portrait of a society that is at once captivating and suffocating, where appearances trump authenticity and conformity takes precedence over personal happiness.
Yet amidst the rigid confines of this privileged world, Wharton weaves a narrative that is unmistakably human. She delves deep into the hearts and minds of her characters, exposing their vulnerabilities, desires, and internal struggles. Wharton's depiction of Newland Archer's inner turmoil resonates with readers as he grapples with the choice between compliance and authenticity. In a society that demands conformity, can love and passion truly flourish, or will the weight of societal expectations extinguish the flames of individuality?
"The Age of Innocence" stands as a timeless testament to Wharton's prodigious talent for capturing the spirit of an era long past while exploring themes that continue to be relevant in our lives today. It serves as a stark reminder that societal norms and expectations can often trap us in a gilded cage, limiting our ability to pursue our true desires and find genuine happiness. Wharton's exploration of the human spirit, its capacity for longing and sacrifice, and its resilience in the face of adversity offers profound insights that resonate far beyond the pages of her novel.
As we embark on this literary journey through the intricacies of New York City's upper-crust society, let us surrender ourselves to the mastery of Edith Wharton. Through her rich and poignant prose, she exposes the fragility of innocence, the hidden layers of desire, and the enduring struggle between conformity and authenticity. In "The Age of Innocence," Wharton invites us to confront the complexities of life and the consequences of societal norms, urging us to examine our own circumstances and question the boundaries that confine us. It is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant work that will continue to captivate readers, reminding us of the timeless power of literature and the enduring impact of one of its greatest storytellers.
Olivia Salter
09/08/2023
.jpg "Edith Wharton")
Edith Wharton (/ˈhwɔːrtən/; born Edith Newbold Jones; January 24, 1862 – August 11, 1937) was an American novelist, short story writer, and designer. Wharton drew upon her insider's knowledge of the upper class New York "aristocracy" to realistically portray the lives and morals of the Gilded Age. In 1921, she became the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in Literature, for her novel The Age of Innocence. She was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1996. Among her other well known works are The House of Mirth and the novella Ethan Frome. Wikipedia
