Author
Ben Hecht
1894-1964
Ben Hecht (1894-1964) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Ben Hecht
A Thousand and One Afternoons in Chicago
"A Thousand and One Afternoons in Chicago" by Ben Hecht is a collection of literary sketches written during the early 20th century. The work captures the vibrant life of Chicago through a series of insightful and poignant vignettes, reflecting Hecht's experiences and observations as a journalist and writer in the city. The sketches probe into the everyday lives, struggles, and nuances of the city's inhabitants, aiming to reveal the deeper truths embedded in their urban existence. The opening of this collection sets the stage for Hecht's ambitious endeavor to create a literary form of journalism that transcends traditional reporting. It introduces the author’s dissatisfaction with mere publicity work and his desire to explore the richness of city life. This section describes Hecht's inspiration and creative process, leading to the birth of "One Thousand and One Afternoons," where he aims to unveil the stories that lie beneath the surface of day-to-day news. Through an illustrative account of his first ideas and aspirations for the project, Hecht illuminates his belief that the essence of literature exists within the fabric of urban experiences—something he skillfully conveys throughout the subsequent sketches.
Fantazius Mallare: A Mysterious Oath
"Fantazius Mallare: A Mysterious Oath" by Ben Hecht is a novel written in the early 20th century. The work delves into the psyche of its main character, Fantazius Mallare, a troubled artist grappling with his madness and his disdain for life while navigating his relationship with a created character named Rita. The themes of existentialism, madness, and the nature of reality serve as a backdrop for the dark and introspective journey that Mallare undertakes. The opening of the novel introduces Fantazius Mallare, who views himself as mad, feeling detached from the world and its meaningless gestures. He lives with a servant named Goliath, a deformed boy who represents Mallare's own warped perception of reality. He has renounced his previous life as an artist, feeling a profound boredom with his creations and existence itself. Mallare's plight worsens as he acquires Rita, a young girl bought from a gypsy caravan, whom he attempts to mold according to his whims. As he interacts with her, the line between creator and creation begins to blur, ultimately leading to a violent confrontation where Mallare struggles with the implications of his actions and the nature of his sanity. The narrative's immersiveness brings the reader into Mallare's chaotic mind, exploring profound psychological themes and the allure of madness.
The Florentine Dagger: A Novel for Amateur Detectives
"The Florentine Dagger: A Novel for Amateur Detectives" by Ben Hecht is a murder mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Julien De Medici, a playwright living in New York who finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue following the murder of his friend Victor Ballau. As De Medici navigates his feelings for Ballau's daughter, Florence, he also grapples with the implications of her father’s death and the complexities of love and betrayal that ensue. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Julien De Medici, who is waiting in Victor Ballau's ornate library. Through Julien's introspective thoughts, we learn of his troubled past, his artistic aspirations, and his growing affection for Florence, Victor's daughter. The atmosphere shifts dramatically when Florence arrives, visibly distraught after receiving alarming news. Shortly thereafter, as Julien seeks a sense of normalcy amidst the escalating tension, he is suddenly thrust into chaos when he discovers Victor's lifeless body, a dagger protruding from his chest, leading to a frantic investigation and stirring suspicions that threaten to unravel both his romance and his own identity. The opening sets the stage for a tale rich with emotion and layered enigmas, inviting the reader to delve deeper into the convoluted dynamics at play.
Gargoyles
"Gargoyles" by Ben Hecht is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book introduces George Cornelius Basine, a young man whose life is intertwined with themes of morality, sin, and the nature of self-deception. As the narrative unfolds, it explores the dichotomies of vice and virtue through Basine's experiences in a morally ambiguous world at the turn of the century, making readers question the complexity of human behavior and societal expectations. The opening of the novel immerses the reader in a disheveled Chicago morning as Basine emerges from a brothel, whistling a tune yet reflecting on his recent escapades filled with sin. With his friend Hugh Keegan by his side, the two discuss their differing attitudes toward morality and the consequences of their actions. The narrative delves into Basine’s internal struggle as he attempts to embody a facade of virtue while battling guilt and the external pressures of society. The conversational exchanges reveal the dichotomy between Basine's charming bravado and underlying moral conflict, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of character and societal critique throughout the novel.
Cutie: A Warm Mamma
"Cutie: A Warm Mamma" by Ben Hecht and Maxwell Bodenheim is a satirical novel written in the early 20th century. The book critiques the prudishness and hypocrisy of societal censors regarding sexual expression in art and literature. It follows the eccentric and comical escapades surrounding the titular character, Cutie, a beguiling young woman, and Herman Pupick, a one-eyed, overly pious censor. The story revolves around Herman Pupick, who, as a devoted censor, sees sin and immorality in every corner of society. Cutie, with her enchanting charm and bold attitudes, represents a stark contrast to Herman's rigid moral beliefs. Their comedic encounters unfold as Herman becomes irresistibly drawn to Cutie's vivacity, challenging his repressive worldview. As Cutiedances through life unabashedly, Herman's internal struggles with purity and sin intensify, leading to a series of humorous misadventures. The plot culminates in a chaotic confrontation that highlights the absurdities of censorship and societal expectations around sexuality, ultimately painting a vivid picture of 1920s American culture.
Erik Dorn
"Erik Dorn" by Ben Hecht is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Erik Dorn, a seemingly successful editor and journalist who navigates the bustling streets of a city while grappling with existential emptiness and a disconnection from his emotions and relationships. Alongside Erik is his elderly father, Isaac Dorn, who reflects on his life and memories, adding a deeper layer of introspection to the story. At the start of the novel, Isaac Dorn is introduced as an old man sitting outside, contemplating life and watching passersby. His thoughts oscillate between nostalgia and a profound sense of melancholy, revealing his complex relationship with Erik, who is depicted as an observer of life rather than an active participant. The narrative then shifts to Erik as he navigates the city, filled with people and noise, yet feeling detached from it all. He finds solace in the patterns of urban life but struggles with his lack of genuine emotions and acknowledges the emptiness that comes with it, leaving readers intrigued by his internal conflicts and the contrasting dynamics with those around him, including his wife, Anna, and the enigmatic Rachel Laskin.