Arthur Schnitzler was one of the writers of “Young-Vienna” at the turn of the twentieth century. His stories are still read, his plays still performed. Stanley Kubrick based his last film, Eyes Wide Shut, on a Schnitzler Novelle. Tonight’s story is one of atmosphere and tension, a compelling read, but it is the conclusion that reveals what a remarkable observer and writer he was.

Maugham, Daisy 2 by For Reading Out Loud

Written in the late Victorian Age, tonight’s story begins like a Victorian morality story, but Somerset Maugham will present his own view of his characters and their destinies.

The language is Victorian, the ambiguity of the story is strikingly modern. This writer is a real discovery.

Stowe, The Sullivan Looking-Glass by For Reading Out Loud

A story tonight by the great Anatole France. I discovered it in 1960. It’s been one of my favorites ever since.

For Halloween, two of Edgar Allan Poe’s most famous short stories: The Telltale Heart and The Cask of Amontillado.

My childhood favorite from Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi” is the heroic adventure of a valiant young Indian gray mongoose. He more than returns the kindness of the family that rescues him.

Edgar Allan Poe’s ghastly story first appeared in Graham’s Magazine in 1842. It embraced the traditions of the Gothic tale and has remained popular ever since, appearing in numerous collections and anthologies. Curiously ambiguous, it remains open to many interpretations.

Two authors tonight, one well known, one known to only a few. Both knew at the age of thirteen that they wanted to become famous authors.