Everything Like Before: Stories

Kjell Askildsen's short stories are full of irony, sharp dialogue, and dark humor, capturing the strange and fragile nature of modern existence. They are packed with compelling strangeness, suppressed loves, and resentments, and lives surge through a few brittle pages.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2021
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Askildsen's dry, absurd humor is reminiscent of Beckett's, with his short stories brimming with irony and sharp, expressive dialogue. TLS praises Askildsen's spare, taut storytelling, noting that it captures the peculiarity of modern existence. Spanning his entire career, these tales depict unsettling encounters, lonely individuals seeking connection, fractured families, and the fragility and absurdity of life. Full of compelling strangeness, the lives of characters burst forth within a few brittle pages, suppressed loves and resentments simmering beneath the surface.

The short stories of Norwegian master Kjell Askildsen are a testament to his exceptional talent. With their concise yet powerful prose, they delve into the depths of human emotions and experiences, offering a glimpse into the complexities of the human condition. From the unsettling to the poignant, Askildsen's stories leave a lasting impression on readers, challenging them to reflect on the world around them.

In this collection of short stories, Askildsen showcases his mastery of narrative structure and his ability to create vivid, memorable characters. Each story is carefully crafted, with a clear beginning, middle, and end, and the characters are well-developed, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs. Whether it's a lonely man seeking companionship or a family torn apart by conflict, Askildsen's stories provide a rich tapestry of human emotions and experiences.

One of the standout features of Askildsen's writing is his use of humor. While his humor is dry and often dark, it is also deeply relatable and often hilarious. Askildsen's ability to blend humor with serious themes creates a unique and engaging reading experience, allowing readers to laugh at the absurdity of life while also contemplating its deeper meaning.

In conclusion, Kjell Askildsen's short stories are a testament to his talent as a writer. With their sharp dialogue, compelling characters, and thoughtful themes, they offer a unique and engaging reading experience that will leave readers reflecting on the human condition for years to come.

Weight: 180g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241508251