Original Short Stories, Volume XI

Renowned for his mastery of the short story, Maupassant's works often reflect the themes of war's futility and its impact on innocent civilians, particularly during the Franco-Prussian War. His writing is marked by a concise style and impactful conclusions, showcasing the influence of his mentor, Gustave Flaubert. With a prolific output that includes 300 short stories and several novels, his first published piece, "Boule de Suif," is frequently regarded as his finest work, encapsulating his literary brilliance and the Naturalist perspective.