Saki – Complete Stories by H.H. Munro (Wordsworth Classics)

Description

“The Complete Stories of Saki” is a comprehensive collection of short stories written by the British author Hector Hugh Munro, who is better known by his pen name Saki. The collection comprises all of Saki’s published short stories and was compiled posthumously.

Saki’s stories, often characterized by their wit, satire, and dark humor, reflect the societal norms and conventions of Edwardian England. His writing style is marked by a clever and incisive use of irony, as he skewers various aspects of upper-class society, the foibles of human nature, and the absurdity of everyday life.

“The Complete Stories of Saki” includes a wide range of tales, featuring memorable characters and inventive plots. Some of Saki’s well-known stories from the collection include “The Open Window,” “The Interlopers,” “Tobermory,” and “The Schartz-Metterklume Method.”

“The Open Window” tells the story of a young girl who weaves a chilling and fictional tale to unsuspecting visitors, while “The Interlopers” explores the consequences of a long-standing feud between two families. “Tobermory” introduces a talking cat who reveals scandalous secrets during a social gathering, and “The Schartz-Metterklume Method” humorously portrays the unconventional methods of a well-intentioned but unorthodox governess.

These stories, along with many others in the collection, highlight Saki’s astute observations of human behavior, his ability to create memorable and eccentric characters, and his talent for crafting unexpected twists and surprises.

“The Complete Stories of Saki” provides readers with an opportunity to explore Saki’s entire body of work, showcasing his unique storytelling style and his ability to blend humor and satire with darker themes. The collection remains highly regarded for its literary quality and its contribution to the genre of short fiction.

Saki’s stories continue to entertain readers with their sharp wit, social commentary, and timeless relevance. They offer a glimpse into the Edwardian era and invite readers to reflect on the follies and absurdities of human nature that transcend time and place.