In Dreams Begin Responsibilities And Other Stories by Delmore Schwartz

This collection of short stories delves into the complexities of human relationships, the passage of time, and the search for meaning within the American experience. The narratives often blend autobiographical elements with fictional techniques, offering a poignant exploration of youth, love, and the inevitable disillusionment that comes with maturity. The title story is particularly notable, employing a surreal dream sequence where the protagonist witnesses his parents' courtship in a silent film, symbolically grappling with the weight of his own existence and the responsibilities it entails. The stories weave together the personal and the universal, creating a tapestry of introspective and existential contemplation that resonates with the anxieties of the 20th century.

The 2809th greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 133

Since this book was first published in 1938, there is a penalty of 0%. The age adjusted score is 133.0.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.