For many readers, getting into reading classics can feel quite daunting. However, I hope to ease readers into the genre with my little guide I designed of five short but nevertheless impressive classics that are a perfect starting point. All these books are under 300 pages, however I think they offer intricate explorations of their respective themes, and their strong messages are likely to stay with you for a long time. It’s remarkable how much of an impact a great author can create with such a short word length.

The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka

One morning, hardworking salesman Gregor Samsa wakes up as a giant insect. Riddled by anxiety and grief of being unable to support his dependent family, Gregor finds himself isolated from the outside world. The Metamorphosis is an earnest and thought-provoking story about the place of the individual in a modern world, and its emotional impact will last long after the story's final word. Kafka’s reflective yet enlightening storytelling is extremely relatable, making this a perfect classic to start with. 

Follow this link for my review of The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka: https://www.pagesofmauve.com/blogs/metamorphosis-franz-kafka-review

White Nights by Fyodor Dostoyevsky

White Nights follows a shy dreamer living on the edges of St Petersburg's society, quietly observing life but rarely partaking in in. After rescuing a girl, a fellow dreamer, a budding romance sparks for our white knight and his damsel in distress which finally springs his life into action. But will this be enough to save him from his chronic loneliness, or might it be just enough to cause his downfall? White Nights is a brilliant story about yearning, the importance of human connection and the dangers of an overly active imagination. I cannot count the number of hours I spent thinking about the events and messages of this short story.

Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

Despite its short length, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a powerful reflection on the nature of art, beauty and the human soul. The story follows a beautiful young man Dorian Gray, who under the influence of the hedonistic Lord Henry Wotton, becomes obsessed with his image to the point of ruinous consequences. Wilde’s eloquent writing and layered analysis is truly masterful and I can’t recommend this book enough.

Follow this link for my review of Picture of Dorian Gray: https://www.pagesofmauve.com/blogs/picture-of-dorian-gray-oscar-wilde-review

All My Sons by Arthur Miller

A riveting play about family, war and grief, All My Sons follows the Keller family, which on the surface are the epitome of the American Dream. Yet, Joe Keller (the family head) holds a secret that bears an ugly truth about the foundation on which this family's fortune was built. All My Sons offers a complex discussion into the importance of social accountability and the irreparable consequences selfish actions will have on the individual and those around them. If you are looking to read more plays, All My Sons by Arthur Miller is a great place to start.

The Stranger by Albert Camus

Rooted in Camus’ theory of absurdism, The Stranger is a deeply philosophical story. It follows Meursault, an outsider, whose eccentric indifference leads to him committing more and more illicit acts. When condemned for the wrong reasons, Camus shows his readers the true nature of society and the fragile position of idiosyncratic identities within it. While it's a harder read than the titles above, it is nevertheless a deeply impactful read which I highly recommend giving a try.

Follow this link for my review of The Stranger (aka The Outsider): https://www.pagesofmauve.com/blogs/stranger-albert-camus-review