Richard Eaton

“ Like the city of New York, the Continental short story is an anomaly, the reflection of the traditions and customs of a score of nations. Just as the emigrant from Poland, Albania, or Timbuctoo is influenced from the very day of his arrival by American ideals, so the Continental short story, whether Spanish, Lettish, or Danish, represents the life and culture of the Continent still at the pinnacle of its artistic triumph. ”

“ I have been guided therefore in my selection, not only by the usual standards of unity, construction, style, interest and completeness of plot, but by a consideration of the customs and intellectual development of each nation. ”

“ In sharp contrast, the North Slavic group, including Russia, Poland, Czechoslovakia and Jugoslavia, is distinctly naturalistic. There is no effort, however, to create the polished and perfectly balanced American short story. ”