Horses and Men: Tales, long and short, from our American life

"Horses and Men: Tales, long and short, from our American life" by Sherwood Anderson is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. This work explores themes of human experience, identity, and the intricacies of American life through various characters and their connections to their surroundings. The stories are likely set against the backdrop of rural and small-town America, focusing on personal struggles and social dynamics. The opening portion of the book begins with a foreword that reflects on the nature of existence and the essence of being. It introduces the author’s admiration for Theodore Dreiser and sets the tone for a range of stories that delve into life’s complexities. The first tale, "I'm a Fool," describes the experiences of a young man named who has left his home to work with racehorses and recounts a bittersweet reflection on his past as he navigates the race meet in Sandusky, Ohio. Through humorous and candid observations, he reveals his insecurities, aspirations, and the differing circumstances of his life compared to those who appear to live more conventional existences. The narrative encapsulates a sense of nostalgia, capturing the essence of youth and the harsh realizations that accompany growing up. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Sherwood Anderson was an American novelist and short story writer, known for subjective and self-revealing works. Self-educated, he rose to become a successful copywriter and business owner in Cleveland and Elyria, Ohio. In 1912, Anderson had a nervous breakdown that led him to abandon his business and family to become a writer.