This book could be a good read for someone who appreciates deep exploration of human connection and longing. Through captivating stories like "Billy Budd" and "Bartleby," Melville delves into the struggle of conveying one's vision to others. The author's preoccupation with the power of fiction and the battle against silence makes this collection a thought-provoking and gripping read. Get ready to be immersed in tales that examine the fragile nature of communication and the profound impact it has on our lives.

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Melville's short stories are masterpieces. The best are to be appreciated on more than one level and those presented here are rich with symbolism and spiritual depth. Set in 1797, Billy Budd, Foretopman exploits the tension of this period during the war between England and France to create a tale of satanic treachery, tragedy and great pathos that explores human relationships and the inherently ambiguous nature of man-made justice.Tales such as Bartleby, Benito Cereno, The Lightning Rod Man, The Tartarus of Maids or I and My Chimney, show the timeless poetic power of Melville's writing as he consciously uses the disguise of allegory in various ways and to various ends.Bartleby the ScrivenerPoor Man's PuddingRich Man's CrumbsThe Paradise of BachelorsThe Tartarus of MaidsThe Lightning-Rod ManBenito CerenoI and My chimneyThe Apple-Tree Table of Original Spiritual ManifestationsThe PiazzaBilly Budd, Foretopman

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