George Ade’s A Set of Poe follows Mr. Waterby, a man who wants just one indulgence: a beautifully bound set of Edgar Allan Poe. When his wife discourages the purchase, he spirals inward, convincing himself she must be selfish and unloving. The small misunderstanding blossoms into resentment, silent punishment, and wounded pride — until Christmas morning reveals an entirely different truth. A gentle, funny, and deeply human portrait of how love can be hidden beneath our worst assumptions.

George Ade was an American humorist at the turn of the twentieth century, best known for stories that reveal our everyday vanities and tender blind spots. He had a gift for showing how small misunderstandings can shape lives — sometimes painfully, sometimes sweetly.

If this story moved you, or made you wince with recognition, I hope you’ll follow, rate, and share Season’s Readings. And explore more short stories, classic and new, at ShortStoryverses.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.