A Few Short Sketches By: Douglass Sherley (1857-1917)
A Few Short Sketches by Douglass Sherley takes readers on a unique journey through a collection of captivating and thought-provoking stories. Sherley's ability to craft vivid imagery, complex characters, and compelling narratives makes this book a must-read for any lover of literary fiction. One aspect that sets this collection apart is Sherley's masterful use of language. His descriptive prose invites readers into each scene, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the story. Whether it's a small town in the grip of a stifling heatwave or a bustling city street filled with a cacophony of sounds, Sherley's words paint a vivid picture that stays with the reader long after the last page has been turned. Equally impressive are the characters that Sherley brings to life within these pages. Each sketch presents a diverse cast, with individuals from different walks of life and varying backgrounds. From a troubled war veteran haunted by his past to a young woman searching for answers about her identity, their struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. Sherley humanizes his characters with a great deal of empathy, exploring their flaws, fears, and desires, making them relatable and memorable. What stands out most about this collection is the astute observations and social commentary embedded within each story. Through the lens of fiction, Sherley delves into various societal issues, such as the impact of technology on human connection, the consequences of unchecked power, and the complexities of love and relationships. These sketches serve as a reflection of our world, provoking readers to reflect on their own lives and perspectives. While the stories themselves are succinct—one might even say "short"—they pack a punch. Each sketch leaves readers wanting more, enticing them to delve deeper into the characters and themes. Despite their brevity, the narratives are multifaceted and layered, leaving plenty of room for interpretation and in-depth analysis. On a few occasions, the transitions between sketches felt somewhat abrupt, leaving the reader momentarily disoriented. However, this minor drawback hardly detracts from the overall quality of the collection. In fact, one could argue that these unexpected shifts add an element of surprise and unpredictability, keeping readers engaged and eager to turn the page. In conclusion, A Few Short Sketches is a remarkable collection of stories that showcases Sherley's talent as a writer. With his excellent use of language, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, Sherley has created a work that is both captivating and intellectually stimulating. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to shed light on the complexities of the human experience. I highly recommend A Few Short Sketches to anyone seeking a literary journey that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. First Page: [Transcriber's Note: unusual spellings have been retained as in the original.] A Few Short Sketches By Douglass Sherley Printed by John P. Morton & Co. Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.A. MDCCCXCIII COPYRIGHTED BY DOUGLASS SHERLEY, 1892 THOSE RUSSIAN VIOLETS TO LADY VIOLET I THOSE RUSSIAN VIOLETS There had been a brilliant reception at the house of Mrs. Adrian Colburn in honor of her guest a most attractive young woman from the East. The hours were brief, from five to seven. I had gone late and left early, but while there had made an engagement with Miss Caddington for the large ball to be given that night by the Boltons. Miss Caddington was a debutante . She had been educated abroad, but had not lost either love of country or naturalness of manner. During the short but fiercely gay season from October to Christmas she had made many friends, and found that two or three lovers were hard to handle with much credit to herself or any real happiness to them. She was not painfully conscientious, nor was she an intentional trifler; therefore she was good at that social game of lead on and hold off. "Call at nine," she said, "and I will be ready." But she was not ready at nine. The room where I waited was most inviting. There were several low couches laden with slumber robes and soft, downy pillows, all at sweet enmity with insomnia... Continue reading book >>

A Few Short Sketches By: Douglass Sherley (1857-1917)

A Few Short Sketches by Douglass Sherley takes readers on a unique journey through a collection of captivating and thought-provoking stories. Sherley's ability to craft vivid imagery, complex characters, and compelling narratives makes this book a must-read for any lover of literary fiction.

One aspect that sets this collection apart is Sherley's masterful use of language. His descriptive prose invites readers into each scene, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the story. Whether it's a small town in the grip of a stifling heatwave or a bustling city street filled with a cacophony of sounds, Sherley's words paint a vivid picture that stays with the reader long after the last page has been turned.

Equally impressive are the characters that Sherley brings to life within these pages. Each sketch presents a diverse cast, with individuals from different walks of life and varying backgrounds. From a troubled war veteran haunted by his past to a young woman searching for answers about her identity, their struggles and triumphs resonate deeply. Sherley humanizes his characters with a great deal of empathy, exploring their flaws, fears, and desires, making them relatable and memorable.

What stands out most about this collection is the astute observations and social commentary embedded within each story. Through the lens of fiction, Sherley delves into various societal issues, such as the impact of technology on human connection, the consequences of unchecked power, and the complexities of love and relationships. These sketches serve as a reflection of our world, provoking readers to reflect on their own lives and perspectives.

While the stories themselves are succinct—one might even say "short"—they pack a punch. Each sketch leaves readers wanting more, enticing them to delve deeper into the characters and themes. Despite their brevity, the narratives are multifaceted and layered, leaving plenty of room for interpretation and in-depth analysis.

On a few occasions, the transitions between sketches felt somewhat abrupt, leaving the reader momentarily disoriented. However, this minor drawback hardly detracts from the overall quality of the collection. In fact, one could argue that these unexpected shifts add an element of surprise and unpredictability, keeping readers engaged and eager to turn the page.

In conclusion, A Few Short Sketches is a remarkable collection of stories that showcases Sherley's talent as a writer. With his excellent use of language, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, Sherley has created a work that is both captivating and intellectually stimulating. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling and its ability to shed light on the complexities of the human experience. I highly recommend A Few Short Sketches to anyone seeking a literary journey that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

First Page:

[Transcriber's Note: unusual spellings have been retained as in the original.]

A Few Short Sketches By Douglass Sherley

Printed by John P. Morton & Co. Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.A.

MDCCCXCIII

COPYRIGHTED BY DOUGLASS SHERLEY, 1892

THOSE RUSSIAN VIOLETS

TO LADY VIOLET

THOSE RUSSIAN VIOLETS

There had been a brilliant reception at the house of Mrs. Adrian Colburn in honor of her guest a most attractive young woman from the East. The hours were brief, from five to seven. I had gone late and left early, but while there had made an engagement with Miss Caddington for the large ball to be given that night by the Boltons.

Miss Caddington was a debutante . She had been educated abroad, but had not lost either love of country or naturalness of manner. During the short but fiercely gay season from October to Christmas she had made many friends, and found that two or three lovers were hard to handle with much credit to herself or any real happiness to them.

She was not painfully conscientious, nor was she an intentional trifler; therefore she was good at that social game of lead on and hold off.

"Call at nine," she said, "and I will be ready."

But she was not ready at nine. The room where I waited was most inviting. There were several low couches laden with slumber robes and soft, downy pillows, all at sweet enmity with insomnia... Continue reading book >>

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