The first short story collection in the Margellos series, from a master of the genre and an irrepressible critic during Argentinas brutal years of repression
Acclaimed for the gemlike perfection of her short stories, Liliana Heker has repeatedly received major literary awards in her native Argentina. Her work has some of the dark humor of Saki or Roald Dahl, and her versatility and range have earned her a wide, appreciative audience. This expertly translated volume brings to English-language readers the full compass of Hekers stories, from her earliest published volume (1966) through her most recent (2011).
Heker rejected exile during the dangerous Dirty War years and formed part of a cultural resistance that stood against repression. As a writer, she found in the microcosm of the family and everyday events subtle entry into political, historical, and social issues. Hekers stories examine the rituals people invent to relate to one another, especially girls and women, and they reveal how the consequences of tiny acts may be enormous. With charm, economy, and a close focus on the intimate, Heker has perfected the art of the glimpse.
Discover the captivating world of Liliana Heker in "Please Talk to Me: Selected Stories," a powerful collection showcasing the brilliance of one of Argentina's most celebrated short story writers. Published by Yale University Press as part of The Margellos World Republic of Letters series, this expertly translated volume offers English-language readers a comprehensive introduction to Heker's extraordinary body of work, spanning from her earliest writings in 1966 to her more recent stories from 2011. Liliana Heker's voice is unique: sharp, insightful, and often laced with a dark humor reminiscent of Saki or Roald Dahl. But beyond the entertainment value, her stories delve into the complexities of human relationships, particularly those between women, and explore the profound impact of seemingly insignificant actions. During Argentina's tumultuous "Dirty War" years, when many intellectuals fled into exile, Heker bravely remained, becoming a vital voice in the cultural resistance. Rather than directly confronting the political turmoil head-on, Heker masterfully employs the microcosm of family life and everyday occurrences to subtly reveal the deeper societal and political issues at play. Her stories become powerful allegories, offering poignant commentary on the human condition under oppressive regimes. "Please Talk to Me" invites you to explore a diverse range of narratives, each meticulously crafted with charm, economy, and an unwavering focus on the intimate. Heker's stories examine the rituals and routines we create to connect with one another, revealing the underlying anxieties, desires, and power dynamics that shape our interactions. Readers will find themselves drawn into the lives of Heker's characters, recognizing universal truths about love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world often marred by injustice. The collection showcases the gemlike perfection of her short stories that has earned her major literary awards in her native Argentina. It exemplifies why Heker is a master of the short story genre. A must-read for anyone interested in Argentinian literature, masterful storytelling, and the power of the human spirit to endure even the darkest of times. The book is a testament to the power of subtle resistance and a masterclass in short story writing.