Old Love Stories Retold   By: Richard Le Gallienne (1866-1947)

Old Love Stories Retold by Richard Le Gallienne is an enchanting collection of classic love tales that have been skillfully reimagined by the author. Le Gallienne's ability to breathe new life into old narratives is truly remarkable, as he successfully captures the essence of each story while adding his own unique touch.

The book is divided into several sections, each containing a different love story from throughout history. From the tragic tales of Romeo and Juliet and Tristan and Isolde to the more lighthearted accounts of Pyramus and Thisbe and Cupid and Psyche, Le Gallienne transports readers to various eras and introduces them to love in all its forms.

What sets this book apart from others is Le Gallienne's exquisite writing style. His prose flows effortlessly, carrying readers through the narratives with an almost melodic quality. His descriptions are vivid and evocative, allowing readers to visualize every scene and feel the emotions of the characters.

In addition to his superb storytelling, Le Gallienne's reinterpretations offer fresh perspectives on timeless romances. He delves into the inner thoughts and motivations of the characters, presenting new insights and deepening our understanding of their actions. This adds depth and complexity to the stories, making them even more compelling and relatable.

Furthermore, Le Gallienne's retellings are not confined by the constraints of their historical origins. He cleverly injects modern themes and ideas into the narratives, exploring contemporary notions of love, gender roles, and societal expectations. This juxtaposition of old and new creates a fascinating contrast and prompts readers to reflect on the universality of love across time.

However, one minor drawback of the book is that some stories may feel slightly rushed. Given the vast array of classic love tales included in this collection, it is understandable that not all of them receive equal attention. Some may have benefited from additional pages to fully develop their plots and characters. Nonetheless, this does not detract significantly from the overall quality of the book.

Old Love Stories Retold is a captivating read for lovers of romance and literature alike. Richard Le Gallienne's artful reimagining of these timeless tales breathes fresh air into familiar narratives, making them relevant and engaging for contemporary readers. Whether you are familiar with the original stories or not, this book is sure to transport you to worlds of love, passion, and heartbreak that will leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

The love story of Heine and his Mathilde is another of those stories which fix a type of loving. It is the love of a man of the most brilliant genius, the most relentless, mocking intellect, for a simple, pretty woman, who could no more understand him than a cow can understand a comet. Many men of genius have loved just such women, and the world, of course, has wondered. How is it that men of genius prefer some little Mathilde, when the presidents of so many women's clubs are theirs for the asking? Perhaps the problem is not so difficult as, at first sight, it may seem. After all, a man of genius is much like other men. He is no more anxious than any other man to marry an encyclopedia, or a university degree. And, more than most men, he is fitted to realize the mysterious importance and satisfaction of simple beauty though it may go quite unaccompanied by "intellectual" conversation and the value of simple woman goodness, the woman goodness that orders a household so skillfully that your home is a work of art, the woman goodness that glories in that "simple" thing we call motherhood, the woman goodness that is almost happy when you are ill because it will be so wonderful to nurse you... Continue reading book >>