Flannery O'Connor

Franklin Library Flannery O'Connor books

Complete Stories of Flannery O'Connor - Collected Stories of the World's Greatest Writers -  1980

A Good Man is Hard to Find and Other Stories - 20th Century's Greatest Books - 1981

Complete Stories of Flannery O'Connor - 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature - 1983

 

 

Writer Flannery O'Connor

Flannery O'Connor, born Mary Flannery O'Connor on March 25, 1925, in Savannah, Georgia, was a profoundly influential American writer acclaimed for her powerful prose and penetrating insights into the human condition. Despite her relatively short life, O'Connor left an indelible mark on American literature, particularly through her mastery of the short story form. Raised in the deeply religious atmosphere of the American South, O'Connor's Catholic faith and Southern heritage heavily influenced her writing. After completing her studies at the Georgia State College for Women (now Georgia College & State University), she attended the prestigious Iowa Writers' Workshop, where she honed her craft under the guidance of acclaimed writers such as Paul Engle.

O'Connor's literary career began to flourish in the early 1950s, with the publication of her first short stories in prominent literary journals. Known for her sharp wit, dark humor, and keen observations of Southern life, her stories often revolve around themes of grace, redemption, and the grotesque. She expertly captured the complexities of human nature, frequently depicting flawed characters in morally ambiguous situations. In 1952, O'Connor was diagnosed with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that would ultimately cut short her life. Despite her illness, she continued to write with unwavering dedication, producing two novels, Wise Blood (1952) and The Violent Bear It Away (1960), in addition to her acclaimed short stories.

It was through her short stories, however, that O'Connor made her most enduring impact. Collections such as A Good Man is Hard to Find (1955) and Everything That Rises Must Converge (1965) showcase her remarkable talent for crafting vivid and unforgettable narratives. Her stories often explore the clash between the secular and the sacred, the mundane and the divine, leaving readers both unsettled and enriched by her unflinching portrayal of human nature. Flannery O'Connor's life was tragically cut short when she passed away on August 3, 1964, at the age of 39. Yet, her literary legacy endures, as her works continue to be celebrated for their profound insights, rich symbolism, and enduring relevance. Through her keen intellect and singular voice, O'Connor remains a towering figure in American literature, inspiring generations of writers and readers alike with her timeless exploration of the human condition.

A Good Man is Hard to Find and Other Stories

A Good Man is Hard to Find is a gripping and provocative short story collection by acclaimed American author Flannery O'Connor. Through a series of vivid and often unsettling narratives, O'Connor explores themes of morality, redemption, and the complexities of human nature. With her sharp wit and keen insight, she delves into the dark corners of the Southern Gothic tradition, crafting stories that are both haunting and deeply thought-provoking. From the chilling encounters with violence to the moments of unexpected grace, O'Connor's tales leave a lasting impression, challenging readers to confront the depths of their own humanity. This collection is a masterpiece of Southern literature, showcasing O'Connor's unparalleled talent for crafting compelling and unforgettable stories.

Stories include:
A Good Man Is Hard to Find
The River
The Life You Save May Be Your Own
A Stroke of Good Fortune
A Temple of the Holy Ghost
The Artificial Nigger
A Circle in the Fire
A Late Encounter with the Enemy
Good Country People
The Displaced Person

Complete Stories of Flannery O'Connor

The Complete Stories of Flannery O'Connor is an extraordinary collection that brings together all of the renowned American author's short fiction. With uncompromising clarity and penetrating insight, O'Connor explores the depths of human nature, often through the lens of the American South. Her stories are populated by unforgettable characters grappling with themes of morality, faith, and the grotesque. From the dark humor of A Good Man is Hard to Find to the haunting spirituality of The Life You Save May Be Your Own, O'Connor's writing captivates readers with its honesty and unflinching exploration of the human condition. This definitive volume is a testament to O'Connor's mastery of the short story form and solidifies her place as one of the most important voices in American literature.
 

Stories include:
The Geranium
The Barber
Wildcat
The Crop
The Turkey
The Train
The Peeler
The Heart of the Park
A Stoke of Good Fortune
Enoch and the Gorilla
A Good Man is Hard to Find
A Late Encounter with the Enemy
The life you save may be your own
The River
A Circle in the Fire
The Displaced Person
A Temple of the Holy Ghost
The Artificial Nigger
Good Country People
You can't be any poorer than dead
Greenleaf
A View of the Woods
The Enduring Chill
The Comforts of Home
Everything that rises must converge
The Partridge Festival
The lame shall enter first
Why do the Heathen Rage?
Revelation
Parker's Back
Judgement Day.