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Selected Polish Tales   By: (1884-1954)

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Selected Polish Tales by Zofia Nałkowska is a remarkable collection of stories that offers a captivating glimpse into the rich traditions and cultural heritage of Poland. Nałkowska's storytelling prowess shines through as she weaves together tales that are both enchanting and thought-provoking.

One of the most striking aspects of this collection is the diverse range of narratives, each presenting a unique perspective of Polish life. The author effortlessly transports readers to different time periods and societal contexts, immersing them in settings that span from medieval villages to bustling urban landscapes. Through her vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail, Nałkowska skillfully captures the essence of each setting, making them come alive in the reader's imagination.

The characters in Selected Polish Tales are exceptionally well-drawn and multi-dimensional. Nałkowska delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of love, loss, betrayal, and redemption. From courageous heroes to conflicted individuals grappling with moral dilemmas, the variety of characters adds depth and complexity to the stories. The author's empathy for her characters shines through, making their triumphs and tragedies all the more poignant.

Nałkowska's prose is lyrical and evocative, paying homage to the rich literary tradition of Polish storytelling. The translation by the talented Martha R. Cekalska effectively preserves the beauty of the original language, allowing readers to fully appreciate the elegance of Nałkowska's writing style. Cekalska's translation strikes a delicate balance between preserving the authenticity of the Polish cultural nuances and ensuring accessibility for non-Polish readers.

Moreover, Nałkowska's ability to interweave folklore, mythology, and everyday experiences seamlessly adds another layer of richness to the narratives. This fusion of the fantastical with the ordinary creates a mesmerizing reading experience, blurring the boundaries between reality and imagination.

Selected Polish Tales is not merely a collection of stories; it is an exploration of the human experience, a celebration of tradition, and a tribute to the enduring power of storytelling. Nałkowska's keen observations of the human condition and her deep insight into the complexities of Polish culture make this collection a must-read for anyone interested in Polish literature or simply seeking a captivating and immersive storytelling experience.

In conclusion, Selected Polish Tales by Zofia Nałkowska is an exceptional collection of stories that deserves a place on the bookshelves of literary enthusiasts and lovers of folklore alike. Nałkowska's mastery of storytelling, her compelling characters, and her lyrical prose combine to create a reading experience that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. This collection is a true gem, shedding light on the rich literary heritage of Poland and captivating readers with its timeless tales.

First Page:

SELECTED

POLISH TALES

TRANSLATED BY

ELSE C. M. BENECKE

AND

MARIE BUSCH

This selection of Tales by Polish authors was first published in 'The World's Classics' in 1921 and reprinted in 1928, 1942, and 1944.

CONTENTS

PREFACE

THE OUTPOST. By BOLESLAW PRUS

A PINCH or SALT. By ADAM SZYMANSKI

KOWALSKI THE CARPENTER. By ADAM SZYMANSKI

FOREBODINGS. By STEFAN ZERKOMSKI

A POLISH SCENE. By WLADYSLAW ST. REYMONT

DEATH. By WLADYSLAW ST. REYMONT

THE SENTENCE. By J. KADEN BANDROWSKI

'P.P.C.' By MME KYCIER NALKOWSKA

PREFACE

My friend the late Miss Else C. M. Benecke left a number of Polish stories in rough translation, and I am carrying out her wishes in editing them and handing them over to English readers. In spite of failing health during the last years of her life, she worked hard at translations from this beautiful but difficult language, and the two volumes, Tales by Polish Authors and More Tales by Polish Authors , published by Mr. Basil Blackwell at Oxford, were among the first attempts to make modern Polish fiction known in this country. In both these volumes I collaborated with her.

England is fortunate in counting Joseph Conrad among her own novelists; although a Pole by birth he is one of the greatest masters of English style... Continue reading book >>




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