What makes the '20 best short stories' so special?

The '25 best short stories' are special because they cover a wide range of themes. They can make you feel various emotions like joy, sadness, horror or surprise. For example, some stories might touch on love and sacrifice, while others might explore the darker side of human nature.

The best international short stories are special because they can convey complex emotions and ideas in a concise form. They often have a unique narrative style that grabs the reader's attention quickly. For example, in 'The Lottery', the simple yet disturbing plot makes you think about society and human nature.

One aspect is that they often give a voice to women's experiences that are often overlooked in mainstream literature. For example, they can explore themes like motherhood, female friendships, and the challenges women face in a male - dominated world.

The best African short stories are special because they offer unique perspectives on African cultures, traditions, and histories. They often explore complex themes such as colonialism, post - colonial identity, family values, and social justice. For example, many stories show how African people have coped with the after - effects of colonial rule, like in Chinua Achebe's works.

The unique writing style. Waugh has a very distinct voice, which is often satirical and witty. This makes his short stories engaging and thought - provoking.

The best Victorian short stories are special because they often reflect the social values and norms of the Victorian era. For example, they might show the strict class system or the different roles of men and women.

The strong sense of place. The Irish landscape, whether it's the bustling streets of Dublin or the rural countryside, is vividly described. This gives the stories a unique atmosphere. Take 'The Dead' for instance, where the snow - covered Dublin streets add to the mood of the story. Also, the themes they explore, like the struggle for Irish identity during different historical periods, make them stand out. They can be both deeply personal and representative of larger national and cultural issues.

The atmosphere. Poe was a master at creating a spooky, mysterious atmosphere. In stories like 'The Fall of the House of Usher', the description of the decaying mansion and the strange events within it immediately draw you in.

The best Murakami short stories are special because of their unique blend of the real and the surreal. For example, in 'The Elephant Vanishes', the disappearance of the elephant in an ordinary neighborhood is both strange and captivating. His use of simple yet evocative language also makes them stand out. He can describe a simple scene like a coffee shop in a way that makes it seem both familiar and otherworldly.

The best French short stories often have a deep exploration of human nature. For example, in 'The Necklace', it shows how pride and vanity can lead to a person's downfall. They also have a unique cultural flavor. French literature has a long history and the short stories are influenced by the French way of life, values and social norms.