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  The Remarkable Rocket

  Oscar Wilde

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  At a royal wedding celebration, a group of fireworks discuss life, philosophy and politics. One supercilious rocket considers himself to be particularly "remarkable". A witty fable on the subject of vanity, The Remarkable Rocket was first published in The Happy Prince and Other Tales in 1888.

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  The Man Who Would Be King

  Rudyard Kipling

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  "The Man Who Would Be King" is a novella written by British author Rudyard Kipling. It was first published in 1888 as part of Kipling's collection "The Phantom 'Rickshaw and other Eerie Tales." The novella is known for its adventure, exploration, and themes related to imperialism and cultural clash. 
   
  The story follows the adventures of two British soldiers, Daniel Dravot and Peachey Carnehan, who have become disillusioned with their lives in the British Army stationed in India. They decide to leave the army and embark on a journey to the remote, fictional land of Kafiristan, located in the mountains of Afghanistan. In Kafiristan, they plan to establish themselves as god-like rulers and exploit the region's wealth and resources. 
   
  Their journey is fraught with challenges, but the two men manage to impress the local people with their superior knowledge and advanced weaponry. They are hailed as gods and establish themselves as rulers. However, as time passes, their ambition, arrogance, and desire for power lead to a series of events that result in a dramatic and tragic conclusion. 
   
  "The Man Who Would Be King" explores themes of colonialism, cultural clash, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. It is a cautionary tale that illustrates the dangers of imperialism and the hubris of those who believe they can manipulate foreign cultures for their own gain. 
   
  The novella has been adapted into various forms over the years, including a highly regarded 1975 film directed by John Huston, starring Sean Connery as Daniel Dravot and Michael Caine as Peachey Carnehan. The story's enduring appeal lies in its examination of the human desire for power and the consequences of attempting to subjugate foreign lands and cultures.

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  Herman Melville 3 Complete Works...

  Herman Melville

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  Herman Melville, born in 1819 in New York City, led a life filled with adventure, literary exploration, and contemplation. His early experiences as a sailor aboard whaling ships provided the inspiration for his most famous work, "Moby-Dick," a literary masterpiece that would later secure his place in literary history. Melville's writings delve into profound themes such as obsession, the human condition, morality, and the conflict between man and nature. 
   
  While Melville's works did not achieve commercial success during his lifetime, his legacy grew in the years following his death in 1891. The publication of "Moby-Dick" in 1851 was met with mixed reviews, but the novel's exploration of existential themes and its rich symbolism garnered appreciation and recognition from later generations of readers and scholars. Today, Melville is considered one of the greatest American writers, with "Moby-Dick" hailed as a monumental achievement in American literature. 
   
  Melville's writings often reflect his own personal struggles and the tumultuous historical context of his time. His novella "Billy Budd, Sailor" explores themes of justice, innocence, and the corrupting influence of authority, drawing parallels to the social and political conflicts of the mid-19th century. His early novels, such as "Typee" and "Omoo," were based on his real-life experiences as a sailor in the South Seas, highlighting the clash between Western civilization and the indigenous cultures he encountered. 
   
  Herman Melville's life and writings continue to resonate with readers, inviting them into a world of adventure, philosophy, and introspection. His works inspire deep reflection on the human condition and the mysteries of existence. Melville's legacy as a literary pioneer, exploring the depths of the human psyche and confronting existential questions, remains enduring.

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  The Tell-Tale Heart

  Edgar Allen Poe

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  The classic gothic tale of madness by Edgar Allen Poe!

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  Never Bet the Devil Your Head

  Sampi Books, Edgar Allan Poe

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  "Never Bet the Devil Your Head", by Edgar Allan Poe, is a satire aimed at literary critics. It tells the story of Toby Dammit, a man who frequently bets his head against the devil, defying fate. Eventually, he loses his bet in a macabre way, satirizing moral and literary conventions.

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  A Medical Crime - From their...

  J. Storer Clouston

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  The bookshelves of British literature are incredible collections that have gathered together centuries of very talented authors.  From these Isles their fame spread and whilst among their number many are now forgotten or neglected their talents endure.  Among them is J Storer Clouston.

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