A Human Condition: The Selected Stories of Rhys Davies

by Rhys Davies

Dark, witty, and acutely observed, these finely crafted stories put small-town life under the microscope. In his unique and memorable style, Davies examines the strange games that people play, painting vivid portraits of the human condition in this selection of fiction marking the centennial of his birth.

Genres: Short Stories, Fiction, Contemporary

128 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2002

About the author

Rhys Davies (1901-1978) was a Welsh novelist and short-story writer.

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an entertaining and insightful collection of short stories based in various locations in Wales describing day to day life for a small number of extraordinary characters. Each tale follows a strong willed and determined character and how their actions impact on themselves and those around them. Within each you can recognise traits and personality querks from both yourself (if you're brave enough to admit it of course) and your friends and family as well as gaining an interesting insight into Welsh life outside of the Pits. Davies has captured the essence of life in the small Welsh towns and villages with precise and detail without it becoming preachy or over-bearing. A thoroughly good read for those both with links to Wales and those without who want to have an idea of what life is like in the green green valleys of the land of song.

[Neil Forbes]

[Edition I read: Collected Stories of Rhys Davies (London, 1955). Selection and preface by the author].