What are the best John Cheever stories and why?

One of the great ones is 'The Swimmer'. It's a fascinating exploration of a man's journey through his neighborhood via the pools, which is also a journey through his own psyche.

One of his best - known stories is 'The Swimmer'. It tells the strange journey of a man who decides to swim across all the pools in his neighborhood back to his home. It's a surreal exploration of a man's life and the passage of time.

One of the top ones is 'Bullet Park'. It has complex characters and themes about suburban life. In addition, 'The Country Husband' is a wonderful story that shows the boredom and restlessness that can lurk beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic suburban existence. John Cheever was really good at exploring the human condition in the context of middle - class America through his short stories.

Many of the stories are known for their exploration of suburban life. They often show the hidden tensions and unspoken desires beneath the seemingly idyllic surface.

Many would argue that 'Bullet Park' is among his best works. It examines the lives of two men in a suburb, highlighting the undercurrents of tension, envy, and the search for meaning in the seemingly idyllic suburban setting. The novel has a unique narrative style that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

Another great one is 'Falconer'. This novel delves deep into the life of a man in prison. Cheever's writing in this book is powerful as he explores themes like redemption, identity, and the human condition within the confines of the prison walls. It's a very thought - provoking read.

John Cheever's best stories often feature complex characters. They are set in suburban America, showing the hidden turmoil beneath the seemingly idyllic surface. His writing style is elegant and detailed.

One of his well - known short stories is 'The Enormous Radio'. It offers a unique look at a married couple's relationship when a new radio starts broadcasting the private lives of their neighbors. Another great one is 'Goodbye, My Brother' which delves into family dynamics and grudges.

John Cheever's best short stories are known for their ability to capture the essence of the American dream and its disillusionment. His characters strive for something more in life, often in the context of the post - World War II era. His writing style is engaging, with a great deal of subtext. For example, in some stories, the seemingly idyllic suburban settings hide darker secrets and unfulfilled desires. He also has a knack for creating a mood. Through his descriptions of the environment and the characters' inner thoughts, he can make the reader feel a sense of unease, longing, or hope, depending on the story's tone.

One can start by looking at literary anthologies that feature classic American short stories. These often include some of Cheever's best works. Another way is to ask at a local library. Librarians are usually well - informed about great literature and can point you in the right direction. You could also check online bookstores and look at the reviews and ratings of his different stories to determine which ones are considered the best.