Best short stories/Guy de Maupassant

Guy de Maupassant was a master of the short story. This collection displays his
lively diversity, with tales that vary in theme and tone, ranging from tragedy and
satire to comedy and farce. In a lucidly direct style, he provides unflinching realism
and sceptical irony.

He depicts the deceptions, hypocrisies and vanities at different levels
of society. Prostitution is frankly described, while the harshness of war is deftly
exposed. His tales have been televised and have influenced films, operas and rock
music.
Unillusioned but humane, Maupassant remains our contemporary.