"Beginners" is a short story collection by the renowned American author and poet Raymond Carver. The collection was published posthumously in 2009, after Carver's death. It includes the unedited manuscript versions of stories that Carver initially published in 1981 as part of the collection "What We Talk About When We Talk About Love."
The book comprises seventeen stories that delve into various aspects of human relationships, communication, and the complexities of love. Each narrative offers a glimpse into the lives of the characters, exploring their struggles, conflicts, and moments of connection. Carver's minimalist style, characterized by spare prose and precise language, is a hallmark of his writing.
The stories in "Beginners" cover a range of themes, from the dynamics of couples and families to the impact of past events on characters' lives. Carver's keen observations and ability to capture the nuances of human behavior contribute to the emotional depth and authenticity of the narratives.
Some of the notable stories in the collection include "Why Don't You Dance?" where a young couple encounters a drunk man selling his possessions at a yard sale, and "Gazebo," which revolves around a married couple managing a motel dealing with issues of trust and infidelity.
"Beginners" stands as a testament to Raymond Carver's literary legacy, showcasing his masterful storytelling and his ability to explore the complexities of the human experience with depth and insight.
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