Twelve Men   By: Theodore Dreiser (1871-1945)

If one were to assign an adjective to Theodore Dreiser’s Twelve Men, "unflinching" would certainly be appropriate. Dreiser’s collection of twelve short stories delves into the psychological depths of its characters, exploring the intricacies of their thoughts, motivations, and moral quandaries. The book offers a poignant and evocative glimpse into the lives of ordinary people grappling with extraordinary circumstances.

Dreiser’s prose is sparse yet rich, masterfully capturing the essence of his characters and their tumultuous inner worlds. Each story is meticulously crafted, with attention to detail and nuance that keeps the reader engrossed from beginning to end. One hallmark of Dreiser’s storytelling is his ability to delve into the seemingly mundane aspects of life, only to reveal the underlying complexity and universal truths hiding within.

One of the greatest strengths of Twelve Men lies in its exploration of human nature. The characters that populate Dreiser’s tales are flawed, vulnerable, and deeply human. Whether it is a broken-hearted woman seeking solace in a poem or a jaded artist grappling with the boundaries of his craft, each protagonist is brought to life through Dreiser’s empathetic and insightful lens.

What makes Twelve Men truly standout, however, is its unflinching examination of the darker aspects of human existence. The stories explore themes such as betrayal, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of one’s actions. Dreiser never shies away from the harsh realities of life, capturing the essence of his characters’ struggles with a rare and unfiltered authenticity.

While Dreiser’s prose and storytelling are undoubtedly powerful, some readers may find the stories in Twelve Men to be morally ambiguous and emotionally heavy. The unapologetic exploration of the human condition, with all its flaws and complexities, may be too much for those seeking lighter fare. However, for readers who appreciate the profound and thought-provoking nature of literature, Twelve Men is a must-read.

In conclusion, Theodore Dreiser’s Twelve Men is a masterful collection of short stories that probes the depths of the human psyche and exposes the complexities of the human experience. With its unflinching exploration of moral quandaries and raw examination of human nature, this book is a compelling and unforgettable read. It is a testament to Dreiser’s skill as a writer and his ability to illuminate the hidden depths that exist within us all.

First Page:

As one drags along through this inexplicable existence one realizes how such qualities stand out; not the pseudo freedom of strong men, financially or physically, but the real, internal, spiritual freedom, where the mind, as it were, stands up and looks at itself, faces Nature unafraid, is aware of its own weaknesses, its strengths; examines its own and the creative impulses of the universe and of men with a kindly and non dogmatic eye, in fact kicks dogma out of doors, and yet deliberately and of choice holds fast to many, many simple and human things, and rounds out life, or would, in a natural, normal, courageous, healthy way... Continue reading book >>