Anthology of the Best French Short Stories

French Classical Authors

Translator and editor: Nicolae Sfetcu

Developed from oral storytelling tradition from the Middle Ages, short story was developed and diversified so that it is now difficult to characterize it. It cannot be included into a specific genre and substantially differ by country and historical period. Short story uses specific techniques to emphasize a singular effect or mood.
There are many funny definitions for short stories: "strong essences in small bottles", "to say much in a few words", "a way of synthesized thinking", "a quick way, appropriate to this century, to convey ideas", "intelligence on small spaces", etc. It is a very suitable genre for the youth of today, with concise and powerful message. An escape from the real world in a totally different universe for some, an opportunity to relax or a means of procrastination for others. Short stories readers have more powerful, concentrated and intense ideas and emotions. A deep and relaxing art, very appropriate for our time.
I brought together in this anthology some of the most beautiful short stories of the classical French literature. The first edition will be continued over many years to come, with other stories at least as beautiful, written by the most famous French authors.