Did you read it or did you savor it?

I used to think short stories were lame. Like, if you were a quality writer, couldn't you write an entire novel? Slacker.

Alice Munro is responsible for changing my mind.

The madre is responsible for me reading Munro. When I told her my surprised love for Munro I believe the madre responded, "ummm...duh."

If you don't know much about Munro, know that she writes about everyday stuff. No vampires, no witches, no murder mysteries. However, when you finish a Munro story you sigh, letting the interesting and poignant images wash over you.

Munro makes you want to savor the written word.

Here are three snippets I savored most from Friend of my Youth:

"She wants a man who doesn't have to be made, who is firm already and determined and mysterious to her."

"Those words took shape in his mind afterward. They were so trite and sombre. One day I came home unexpectedly... Is there every a story of a man who comes home unexpectedly and finds a delightful surprise?"

"People change. They disappear, and they don't all die to do it."

It doesn't hurt that she is Canadian. You know I love Canada.

"I want the reader to feel something astonishing. Not the 'what happens,' but the way everything happens."
Alice how did I get so awesome Munro