Which Asimov short story is considered the best and why?

In my opinion, 'The Steppe' can be considered one of the best. It has a vivid description of the vast steppe landscape which almost becomes a character in itself. The journey of the young boy through the steppe is not just a physical one but also a journey of self - discovery. The way Chekhov writes about nature and human emotions in relation to it is truly remarkable.

Most fans would probably say 'Foundation'. It has been highly influential in the science - fiction genre. Its scope is vast, covering millennia of future history. The concept of using mathematics to predict the future on a large scale in the form of psychohistory is just mind - blowing.

One of the best Russian short stories is 'The Lady with the Dog' by Anton Chekhov. It's great because it realistically portrays a love affair in a society full of constraints. The characters' emotions are subtly and deeply depicted, making the readers feel their inner turmoil.

Many consider 'The Snows of Kilimanjaro' as one of his best. The vivid descriptions of the African landscape and the protagonist's internal struggle are captivating. It combines elements of adventure, regret, and the approach of death in a very engaging way.

I would say 'Victory Lap' is a top contender. This story is a masterclass in character development. We have three main characters - Alison, Kyle, and the kidnapper. Saunders weaves their perspectives together in a way that builds tension and explores themes of innocence, danger, and the unexpected turns life can take. It's a story that stays with you long after you've read it. The way he captures the naivete of the teenagers and the menace of the kidnapper is really remarkable.

I think 'Rape Fantasies' is often considered very good. It's a powerful exploration of female sexuality and the way society views women. The main character's thoughts about rape fantasies are both disturbing and eye - opening, as Atwood uses her to challenge common misconceptions. It's short but packs a big punch.

However, 'The End of Eternity' is also a strong contender. It has a mind - bending plot about time travel and the consequences of manipulating time. It really showcases Asimov's ability to play with big scientific concepts.

I think 'The Dream of a Ridiculous Man' is a great Dostoevsky short story. It's about a man who has lost all hope and decides to commit suicide. But then he has a dream where he experiences a utopian world. This story is remarkable as it shows Dostoevsky's ability to blend the spiritual and the psychological. The man's journey in the dream makes him realize the value of life and love, and it has a very strong moral undertone about redemption and the importance of human connection.

One of the best magical realism short stories is 'A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings' by Gabriel García Márquez. It combines the ordinary world of a coastal village with the extraordinary presence of an angel - like old man. The villagers' reactions to this strange being range from curiosity to exploitation, showing how humans interact with the unknown. The story blurs the lines between reality and the magical, making readers question what is real and what is not.

Definitely 'The Laughing Man'. It's so good because of its complex narrative. The multiple layers of the story - the boys' experience at camp and the story of the Laughing Man - create a rich tapestry. It makes the reader think about how we create and perceive heroes. Also, the way Salinger builds suspense and mystery around the Laughing Man's true identity is really captivating, making it a standout short story.