This collection of short stories was originally published in 1915, but the modern reader will find much in common the themes presented throughout the work. Dunsany expresses deep concern about the changing world about him, worrying at how increasing industrialization affects the natural world. He also has a keen awareness of the impermanence of human achievements, with many stories touching on how time has erased most of human accomplishments and how so little really lasts. His work is infused with humor, melancholy, and poetic turns of phrase. The work is as relevant today as it was when it was written, and well worth remembering. 

Kay Mack Reads

FULL AUDIOBOOK: Fifty One Tales

Pan is dead, that much is certain. Ignore the laughter coming from the hills.

The Tomb of Pan

What do we prioritize? What should we prioritize?

What We Have Come To

A Palace and and the lair of an Earthquake. What could possible go wrong?

Compromise

You may easily turn the mother away, but her sons will come to you no matter what you do.

The Three Tall Sons

The muses care not for the lives of who they call and they will not be ignored. The message is all that matters.

The Messengers

The Poet delights in the Blackbird’s song, but the Wanderer is less than impressed.

The Song of the Blackbird

Nature reproaches Time, much to Time’s annoyance.

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Kay Mack Reads

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