"Fairy Tales for Adults" presents a collection of enchanting stories that go beyond the realm of traditional children's fairy tales. These narratives, crafted by literary masters Anton Chekhov and Oscar Wilde, offer a rich tapestry of strong characters, thought-provoking themes, and profound insights into the mysteries of the soul. Within these tales lie timeless truths that have endured for centuries, captivating readers with their universal appeal and offering both enjoyment and enlightenment. In "Anyuta" by Anton Chekhov, the story revolves around the eponymous character, a young woman living in poverty. As the narrative unfolds, Chekhov explores the complexities of human relationships, societal expectations, and the sacrifices one makes for love. "Anyuta" offers a poignant exploration of the human condition and the resilience of the human spirit. "The Devoted Friend" by Oscar Wilde delves into the dynamics of friendship and the harsh realities of self-interest. The tale follows the relationship between a kind-hearted linnet and a self-centered miller, highlighting themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the true nature of altruism. Through vivid storytelling, Wilde delivers a powerful moral message about the complexities of human nature. This volume includes the following stories and tales: Anyta by Anton Chekhov, The Devoted Friend by Oscar Wilde, Polinka by Anton Chekhov, The Sphinx Without a Secret by Oscar Wilde. Read in English, unabridged.
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Anton Chekhov (1860–1904), the author of hundreds of short stories and several plays, is regarded by many as both the greatest Russian storyteller and the father of modern drama. He described the Russian life of his time using a deceptively simple technique devoid of obtrusive literary devices, thereby becoming the prominent representative of the late nineteenth-century Russian realist school. His early stream-of-consciousness style strongly influenced the literary world, including writers such as James Joyce.
Oscar Wilde (1854–1900) was born in Dublin. He won scholarships to both Trinity College, Dublin, and Magdalen College, Oxford. In 1875, he began publishing poetry in literary magazines, and in 1878, he won the coveted Newdigate Prize for English poetry. He had a reputation as a flamboyant wit and man-about-town. After his marriage to Constance Lloyd in 1884, he tried to establish himself as a writer, but with little initial success. However, his three volumes of short fiction, The Happy Prince, Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime, and A House of Pomegranates, together with his only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, gradually won him a reputation as a modern writer with an original talent. That reputation was confirmed and enhanced by the phenomenal success of his society comedies: Lady Windermere’s Fan, A Woman of No Importance, An Ideal Husband, and The Importance of Being Earnest, all performed on London’s West End stage between 1892 and 1895. In 1895, he was convicted of engaging in homosexual acts, which were then illegal, and sentenced to two years imprisonment with hard labor. He soon declared bankruptcy, and his property was auctioned off. In 1896, he lost legal custody of his children. When his mother died that same year, his wife Constance visited him at the jail to bring him the news. It was the last time they saw each other. In the years after his release, his health deteriorated. In November 1900, he died in Paris at the age of forty-six.
Max Bollinger was born in Russia, grew up in Ukraine, and moved to England in 1993. He currently resides in London.