Morley Callaghan Livres

The collection offers a rich exploration of the 20th-century literary landscape through essays, reviews, and articles that highlight influential figures and significant events from 1928 to 1990. It begins with notable writers like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce, and traverses various themes, including the impact of war propaganda and the complexities of a writer's life, providing a comprehensive view of the era's literary discourse.

Morley Callaghan's complete short fiction showcases his unique storytelling ability, now celebrated in a four-volume collection. This compilation includes several stories previously unpublished, alongside two notable works, "An Autumn Penitent" and "In His Own Country," which have not been available for decades. The collection highlights Callaghan's significant contributions to literature, offering readers a chance to explore the depth and variety of his narrative style.

Introductions by Alistair MacLeod (v. 1), Andre Alexis (v. 2), Anne Michaels (v. 3), and Margaret Atwood (v. 4).

After losing his father, Luke, a small and introspective boy, moves in with his Uncle Henry and Aunt Helen. In his new home, he discovers that Uncle Henry plans to put down their aging dog, Dan, deeming him useless. Luke's determination to save Dan reveals his deep sense of loyalty and dignity, prompting him to confront the harsh realities of adult decisions. Through this struggle, he gains insight into both his uncle's character and the often pragmatic nature of the adult world, marking a poignant coming-of-age journey.

The narrative offers a bold reinterpretation of Christ's trial, crucifixion, and resurrection through the eyes of Philo of Crete, a scribe for Pontius Pilate. As he witnesses the trial and interacts with various characters, including Judas Iscariot, Philo uncovers the true story behind the betrayal and the fate of Christ's body. This retelling presents a dramatic and radical perspective that challenges traditional beliefs, providing a unique lens on a well-known biblical event.

Set in 1920s Toronto, this gripping thriller follows Harry Trotter, a morally ambiguous character who transforms from a struggling bootlegger to a powerful gangster after losing his job and wife. Amidst the world of speakeasies and violent vendettas, Trotter navigates a landscape filled with crime, betrayal, and ruthless politics. As North America's first gangster novel, it lays the groundwork for the hard-boiled crime genre, showcasing a compelling mix of charm and menace in its characters and a seething noir atmosphere.

Set in 1928, the collection features short stories by Morley Callaghan, an author praised by Hemingway for his literary prowess. These narratives, including the debut fiction piece "An Escapade," showcase Callaghan's unique voice and style, making a compelling case for his work's compatibility with The New Yorker. Readers will discover the depth and creativity that led to Callaghan's recognition alongside literary giants like James Joyce.

Exploring the interplay between romance and the darker aspects of humanity, the story begins with the hanging of a former World War I soldier for involuntary murder. His sister becomes obsessed with her brother's closest friend, John Hughes, who is increasingly entangled in the aftermath of the execution. As he grapples with his own violent thoughts, the narrative reveals how the trauma of war disrupts the peace of a small town, highlighting the haunting effects of a man's death on those left behind.