Tales from Bohemia By: Robert Neilson Stephens (1867-1906)
Tales from Bohemia by Robert Neilson Stephens offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of artists and writers in Paris during the late 19th century. Through a series of interconnected short stories, Stephens takes readers on a journey through the bohemian neighborhoods of Montmartre, where struggling artists gather in cafés and mingle with eccentric characters. The collection opens with "The Circle of the Rue Royale," a story that introduces us to a colorful group of friends who share a passion for art and an eagerness for life's adventures. Their discussions on philosophy, art, and love form the backbone of the book, creating an atmosphere of intellectualism and artistic exploration that permeates throughout. Stephens' depiction of characters is remarkable, as he effortlessly captures their unique quirks, ambitions, and insecurities. From the talented but tormented poet to the fiercely independent painter, each portrayal feels authentic and multi-dimensional. The author deftly crafts intricate relationships among the characters, exploring themes of friendship, love, rivalry, and sacrifice. One of the standout stories is "Dancing Fancies," which follows a disillusioned painter who finds solace in dance and becomes enamored with a young dancer named Celestine. Stephens beautifully illustrates the passion and longing in their complicated relationship, creating an emotionally charged narrative that is both poignant and profound. Moreover, Tales from Bohemia is not merely a collection of stories but also serves as an ode to the power of art itself. Stephens' vivid descriptions of paintings and sculptures transport the reader into the world of the artists, evoking a sense of awe and wonder. The book encourages readers to appreciate the beauty around them and ponder the transformative nature of art. One aspect that makes this book particularly engaging is the way in which it captures the spirit of bohemian life during that period. Stephens expertly recreates the lively atmosphere of Parisian cafés, art exhibitions, and salons, immersing readers in the energy and cultural vibrancy of the time. Through his rich prose, the author paints a vivid picture of bohemia, leaving readers feeling as though they have truly traveled back in time. In conclusion, Tales from Bohemia by Robert Neilson Stephens is an enchanting collection of stories that delves into the lives and minds of artists in Paris. With its skillfully drawn characters, evocative descriptions, and thoughtful exploration of art and life, this book offers readers a captivating and immersive experience. Anyone with an interest in art, history, or human nature will find great pleasure in diving into this delightful collection of tales from the heart of bohemia. First Page: TALES FROM BOHEMIA By ROBERT NEILSON STEPHENS ROBERT NEILSON STEPHENS A MEMORY One crisp evening early in March, 1887, I climbed the three flights of rickety stairs to the fourth floor of the old "Press" building to begin work on the "news desk." Important as the telegraph department was in making the newspaper, the desk was a crude piece of carpentry. My companions of the blue pencil irreverently termed it "the shelf." This was my second night in the novel dignity of editorship. Though my rank was the humblest, I appreciated the importance of a first step from "the street." An older man, the senior on the news desk, had preceded me. He was engaged in a bantering conversation with a youth who lolled at such ease as a well worn, cane bottomed screw chair afforded. The older man made an informal introduction, and I learned that the youth with pale face and serene smile was "Mr. Stephens, private secretary to the managing editor." That information scarcely impressed me any more than it would now after more than twenty years' experience of managing editors and their private secretaries. The bantering continued, and I learned that the youth cherished literary aspirations, and that he performed certain work in connection with the dramatic department for the managing editor, who kept theatrical news and criticisms within his personal control... Continue reading book >>

Tales from Bohemia By: Robert Neilson Stephens (1867-1906)

Tales from Bohemia by Robert Neilson Stephens offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of artists and writers in Paris during the late 19th century. Through a series of interconnected short stories, Stephens takes readers on a journey through the bohemian neighborhoods of Montmartre, where struggling artists gather in cafés and mingle with eccentric characters.

The collection opens with "The Circle of the Rue Royale," a story that introduces us to a colorful group of friends who share a passion for art and an eagerness for life's adventures. Their discussions on philosophy, art, and love form the backbone of the book, creating an atmosphere of intellectualism and artistic exploration that permeates throughout.

Stephens' depiction of characters is remarkable, as he effortlessly captures their unique quirks, ambitions, and insecurities. From the talented but tormented poet to the fiercely independent painter, each portrayal feels authentic and multi-dimensional. The author deftly crafts intricate relationships among the characters, exploring themes of friendship, love, rivalry, and sacrifice.

One of the standout stories is "Dancing Fancies," which follows a disillusioned painter who finds solace in dance and becomes enamored with a young dancer named Celestine. Stephens beautifully illustrates the passion and longing in their complicated relationship, creating an emotionally charged narrative that is both poignant and profound.

Moreover, Tales from Bohemia is not merely a collection of stories but also serves as an ode to the power of art itself. Stephens' vivid descriptions of paintings and sculptures transport the reader into the world of the artists, evoking a sense of awe and wonder. The book encourages readers to appreciate the beauty around them and ponder the transformative nature of art.

One aspect that makes this book particularly engaging is the way in which it captures the spirit of bohemian life during that period. Stephens expertly recreates the lively atmosphere of Parisian cafés, art exhibitions, and salons, immersing readers in the energy and cultural vibrancy of the time. Through his rich prose, the author paints a vivid picture of bohemia, leaving readers feeling as though they have truly traveled back in time.

In conclusion, Tales from Bohemia by Robert Neilson Stephens is an enchanting collection of stories that delves into the lives and minds of artists in Paris. With its skillfully drawn characters, evocative descriptions, and thoughtful exploration of art and life, this book offers readers a captivating and immersive experience. Anyone with an interest in art, history, or human nature will find great pleasure in diving into this delightful collection of tales from the heart of bohemia.

First Page:

TALES FROM BOHEMIA

By ROBERT NEILSON STEPHENS

ROBERT NEILSON STEPHENS

A MEMORY

One crisp evening early in March, 1887, I climbed the three flights of rickety stairs to the fourth floor of the old "Press" building to begin work on the "news desk." Important as the telegraph department was in making the newspaper, the desk was a crude piece of carpentry. My companions of the blue pencil irreverently termed it "the shelf." This was my second night in the novel dignity of editorship. Though my rank was the humblest, I appreciated the importance of a first step from "the street." An older man, the senior on the news desk, had preceded me. He was engaged in a bantering conversation with a youth who lolled at such ease as a well worn, cane bottomed screw chair afforded. The older man made an informal introduction, and I learned that the youth with pale face and serene smile was "Mr. Stephens, private secretary to the managing editor." That information scarcely impressed me any more than it would now after more than twenty years' experience of managing editors and their private secretaries.

The bantering continued, and I learned that the youth cherished literary aspirations, and that he performed certain work in connection with the dramatic department for the managing editor, who kept theatrical news and criticisms within his personal control... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – Tales from Bohemia

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