Tenth of December by George Saunders (2013) – A Review
Tenth of December by George Saunders (2013) – A Review
George Saunders’ Tenth of December is a collection of short stories that blends humor, surrealism, and deep emotional resonance. Known for his biting wit and satirical eye, Saunders captures the absurdities of contemporary life while offering profound insights into the human condition. This collection showcases his unique ability to weave together dark comedy and heartfelt emotion, making Tenth of December one of the standout short story collections of the 21st century.
Exploring Human Flaws and Compassion
In Tenth of December, Saunders examines the complexities of human nature, particularly our flaws and our capacity for compassion. The stories in this collection often center around individuals who are grappling with moral dilemmas, personal struggles, and the desire for connection. Whether it’s a man facing the end of his life or a person caught in an ethical quandary, the characters in these stories are profoundly human in their confusion, vulnerability, and longing.
Saunders’ storytelling is marked by his ability to delve into the absurdities of modern life. In many of his stories, characters find themselves in bizarre, exaggerated situations that mirror real-life emotional and ethical challenges. Through his surreal and often outlandish premises, Saunders is able to highlight the underlying humanity of his characters, making their struggles both comedic and poignant.
The Absurdities of Modern Life
A central theme in Tenth of December is the absurdity of modern life. Saunders often places his characters in bizarre or exaggerated circumstances—such as a futuristic prison lab where prisoners are subjected to moral testing or a family that uses human lawn ornaments as a symbol of status. These strange scenarios provide a satirical lens through which Saunders critiques aspects of contemporary society, including consumerism, technology, and the ethical quandaries of modern living.
Yet, despite the outlandish nature of the situations, the emotional stakes in Saunders’ stories are always real. His characters are never simply vehicles for satire; they are fully realized people with internal lives, desires, and fears. The collection’s ability to balance the absurd with the deeply personal is what makes it so resonant.
The Power of Empathy and the Meaning of Small Moments
In addition to humor and satire, Tenth of December is also a celebration of empathy. Many of the stories explore how people, despite their flaws and misunderstandings, are capable of great kindness and emotional insight. In “Tenth of December,” for instance, a dying man’s final act of kindness toward a young boy demonstrates the deep emotional connections that can emerge even in the most unexpected circumstances.
Saunders’ characters often struggle with the complexity of their lives, yet their moments of clarity and connection provide a sense of hope and humanity. Through his exploration of small moments—whether it’s an act of compassion or a fleeting realization—Saunders reminds readers of the profound impact that even the smallest interactions can have on our lives.
Conclusion: A Brilliant Collection of Short Stories
In conclusion, Tenth of December is a brilliant and thought-provoking collection that combines humor, absurdity, and emotional depth. Saunders’ ability to craft compelling characters and explore the complexities of modern life with empathy and wit makes this collection a standout in contemporary short fiction. Whether it’s through surreal scenarios or deeply emotional moments, Saunders captures the essence of the human experience, making Tenth of December an essential read for anyone interested in contemporary literature.
