I recently immersed myself in the anthology “100 Years of The Best American Short Stories,” edited by the talented Lorrie Moore and Heidi Pitlor. As someone who revels in the subtlety and craft of short fiction, I was drawn to this collection not only for the breadth of stories but also for its promise to encapsulate a century of American literature. Curiosity about how these stories reflect America’s evolving identity was irresistible to me.
This anthology offers a deep dive into a diverse range of narratives, showcasing writers from different backgrounds and eras. The selection includes 40 stories from over the 100 years of the series, making for a rich tapestry of voices and experiences. Lorrie Moore’s insightful 12-page introduction sets the tone beautifully, reading like a personal narrative that invites readers into the anthology’s world. It’s clear she curated this collection with care, offering a blend of foundational pieces and hidden gems that exemplify the “wildness of character and voice” referenced in the description.
One of the positives of the collection is its incredible diversity. Stories such as Nancy Hale’s reflections on the Holocaust and Tillie Olsen’s poignant portrayal of a single mother’s despair stand alongside classics from masters like Hemingway and Faulkner. I was particularly struck by how well the anthology honors each writer’s voice, providing context through insightful introductions to each decade. The commentary by Heidi Pitlor throughout the book enriches the reading experience, shedding light on the historical and social nuances that shaped each story.
However, there were a couple of drawbacks that I didn’t quite anticipate. Some readers have voiced that the biographical notes on the authors, while interesting, felt overly elaborated at times. I found myself skimming them in a bid to get back to the narratives, as they sometimes eclipsed my desire to fully engage with the stories themselves. Additionally, the anthology does present stories that may seem dated in style to contemporary readers, even though they represent pivotal moments in literary history.
Despite these drawbacks, what I genuinely appreciated was the opportunity to encounter new authors and stories that I had not explored before. The selection certainly fulfills its mission of providing a guided tour through American literary history. It was fascinating to see how the styles shifted alongside societal changes, from the introspective adaptations of the early 20th century to more modern, experimental approaches.
Overall, while reading this anthology, I felt a deep sense of connection to the evolution of storytelling over the past century. The collection had a few moments that felt slow or lengthened, particularly through the biographical material, but the substantial quality of the selected stories shone through.
In conclusion, “100 Years of The Best American Short Stories” is not just a testament to a century’s worth of literary talent—it’s an essential resource for anyone who loves short fiction. Its exploration of America’s history and identity through varied voices makes it a must-read for literary buffs and newcomers alike. I wholeheartedly recommend it; just prepare to take your time with each story, allowing them to resonate. With an overall rating of 4.5 stars, it’s a commendable anthology that deserves a spot on your bookshelf.