Tallow Ball

Author: Guy de Maupassant
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: Maupassant's novels are imbued with depth, particularly his short stories—even those spanning a few thousand words have their own distinct charm. The narrative often begins with a measured pace, or it may deliberately depict scenes and atmospheres, revealing a well-balanced structure within the. The story then naturally takes twists and turns, with the protagonist, though stumbling into misfortune, finding themselves entangled in trouble. Yet, even amidst countless dangers, the story unfolds in a conversational manner, leaving readers with a unique sense of meaning. It's like the gentle moonlight passing through a flower window lattice. Without metaphor or symbolism, it may appear as clear as water at first glance, but in reality, the water-moon-reflection-flowers hold deeper significance.
According to conventional literary history, Maupassant, a student of Flaubert, belongs to the Naturalist school that emerged in the mid-19th century. Analyzing his masterpieces such as Boule de Suif (The Ball) and La Parure (The Necklace), it is evident that they bear the marks of this school—such as attention to detail and expressive power, a compassionate heart for the lower social strata, and criticism of the petty bourgeois mindset, among other things—all of which are elaborately highlighted in many literary textbooks.
The main contents of this book include The Necklace, Boule de Suif, A Norman Gentleman, Moonlight, Dolly Tarrou, Two Friends, Pietro the Pup, A Son, A Family, Moran the Boar, One Spring Night, Jewels, The Story of a Farmhouse Queen, and the Postscript.