Which Raymond Carver short story is considered the best by critics?

For me, 'Cathedral' stands out as the best. The way it unfolds, with the narrator's initial discomfort around the blind man and then the gradual transformation, is really engaging. It makes you think about how we perceive others and how our perceptions can change.

One of the highly regarded Raymond Carver short stories is 'Cathedral'. It has a simple yet profound narrative. The story shows how a blind man's visit changes the perspective of the narrator. Through their interaction, themes of perception, jealousy, and connection are explored in a very down - to - earth and relatable way.

'What We Talk About When We Talk About Love' is also a great one. It examines different conceptions of love among a group of friends over drinks. Carver's spare prose forces the readers to really think about what love means to each character, and how complex and multifaceted this emotion can be.

Some of his best short stories include 'Cathedral'. In this story, the narrator's perspective shifts as he interacts with a blind man. Another great one is 'A Small, Good Thing' which explores themes of grief and human connection in a very poignant way. And 'What We Talk About When We Talk About Love' is also highly regarded as it delves deep into different understandings of love among a group of friends sharing drinks.

Many critics also hold 'A Farewell to Arms' in high regard. It's lauded for its honest portrayal of war and love. The way Hemingway depicts the disillusionment of the soldiers and the doomed love between the two main characters is seen as a great achievement. It shows his skills in creating complex characters and a vivid sense of place.

Common themes in his best short stories include alcoholism, poverty, and failed relationships. These themes reflect the hardships and challenges of ordinary life.

I think 'So Much Water So Close to Home' is the best. It's a story that makes you question morality. The men go fishing while a dead girl is in the river nearby. Their nonchalance and then the subsequent reactions of their wives create a complex web of human behavior and values.

Well, 'Are These Actual Miles?' is among the best. It shows Carver's ability to capture the complex emotions within a family during a difficult time. 'Neighbors' is also a standout. It tells a story about a couple who house - sit for their neighbors and the strange feelings and actions that unfold. And then there's 'So Much Water So Close to Home' which is a powerful exploration of guilt and male - female relationships.

I think 'What We Talk About When We Talk About Love' is a top contender. The short stories in this collection are quintessential Carver. His sparse writing style is on full display, and the exploration of love in its various forms - the broken, the desperate, and the unrequited - makes it a really impactful read.

One of the main characteristics of Raymond Carver's best short stories is their minimalist style. He doesn't waste words, every sentence counts. His stories often have an understated sense of drama. For example, in many of his stories, the characters are on the verge of some kind of emotional or life - changing moment, but it's not overly dramatized. Another aspect is his exploration of the human condition, especially the darker and more complex aspects such as loneliness, disappointment, and the fragility of relationships.