Diary of a Madman and Other Stories (Dover Thrift Editions: Short Stories) Paperback – December 29, 2006

I only became familiar with Gogol through references in the work of Philip Roth. After all, great writers should give their due to their predecessors. Five of Gogol's most celebrated short stories are included in this collection. While I can only classify myself as a fan of three of these stories, this collection is still worth purchasing."The Diary of a Madman" harkens Kafka-esque images of man versus isolation and the bureaucracy in the story of one man's sometimes humorous spiral into madness. Scorned in love and work, the main character retreats into an alternate reality. "The Nose", the story of a runaway body part, possesses elements of Kafka's "Metamorphisis". A fiction that borders on absurdity can still be frightening. It brings to mind that the superficial image one presents in society is too important. "The Overcoat", having themes of superficiality and prized possessions, is a peculiar tale. Taunted by his co-workers for the condition of his overcoat, the main character makes many sacrifices to replace his coat. To a point, the new overcoat becomes more of an obsession than it should.While "The Carriage" and "Taras Bulba" are also included in the set, I do not believe they carry the same feeling as the other stories. To a degree, "Taras Bubla" almost seemed out of place in the set. The collection of short stories is enjoyable and highly recommended to lovers of literature. It brings the thought to mind of what other works of literature were hidden from American eyes by communism.

Quite a remarkable book. "The Portrait" is a compelling story, best read at a slower pace, as the language is rich and dense, horrible and uplifting and disturbing, all at the same time.

A good, quick and inexpensive intro to Gogol. I would have appreciated end notes, but Dover Thrift doesn't provide those; I suppose to keep it thrifty.

Aside from Gogol's relationship on Russian and World Literature... aside from the Translation of this particular version... I enjoyed it.I bought it for Diary of a Madman. One of Three stories. Quick, simple, to the point, and over. A fun little read.

A great read.

A retired English teacher introduced me to Russian writers. The first one I read was "The Overcoat." It was wonderfully absurd. Gogol creates real personalities and gives insight into Russian culture and values. They are funny, sad and enjoyable literature.

In my last review I said this book makes for edgy, fascinating reading! It is hard to put this book down! I also read this book as a senior in high school, between ages 17 and 18 years of age!

The book was shipped to me very quickly and is in good condition; however, I would have liked to have known what other stories were included in the book ahead of time.

A fine book in a size easy to take on the bus.

Very good read, which described psychosis perfectly. Doesn't take time to read.

Mad funny story!

A very short book. It has dated badly.

Three very good stories. The edition allowed me an introduction to the work of Gogol at a very low price. I will certainly buy more from this author and will try other authors in this form of publication.