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      MY SIXTH STAGE

      MY SIXTH STAGE Cover
      by LovelyMay In London, during a particularly dull and sweltering early September, Mark Shrewsbury found himself grappling with the lethargy that the city imposed. Despite the tangible comforts of his chambers and the utility of his cherished typewriter, his spirit waned under the monotony and the oppressive heat, rendering his novel-writing process more grueling than ever. Amidst this listless phase, Shrewsbury's routine took a turn during an encounter at his club. A casual reunion with a friend just returned from…
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      MY FIFTH STAGE

      MY FIFTH STAGE Cover
      by LovelyMay In the fifth stage of "The Autobiography of a Slander," the narrative navigates through Mrs. Selldon's struggles with conversation during a dinner party held in honor of the renowned author, Mr. Mark Shrewsbury. Mrs. Selldon, distinguished by her unstimulating conversational skills, dreads social interactions, especially with individuals of notable intellect or fame. The chapter expertly portrays her anticipation and the subsequent awkwardness that ensues when she is paired with Mr. Shrewsbury for…
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      MY FOURTH STAGE

      MY FOURTH STAGE Cover
      by LovelyMay In the fourth stage of "The Autobiography of a Slander," Mrs. Milton-Cleave's desire for influence fuels her interactions, notably with Mr. Blackthorne, whom she seeks to impress. Her day, filled with social engagements, ends with a contemplative moment about Gertrude Morley's future, sparked by witnessing Gertrude and Sigismund Zaluski's apparent affection for each other. Mrs. Milton-Cleave's concerns grow as she observes Zaluski, who she suspects of being a nefarious figure masquerading as a respectable…
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      MY THIRD STAGE

      MY THIRD STAGE Cover
      by LovelyMay In this chapter of "The Autobiography of a Slander," a significant escalation unfolds at a social gathering. Sigismund Zaluski, a rich Polish man admired for his worldly experience and effortless charm, unwittingly stirs the envy and animosity of James Blackthorne, a curate. Blackthorne, previously comfortable in his role in Muddleton's social circles, feels overshadowed by Zaluski's presence and virtues. The instance that exacerbates his discomfort comes during a tennis game, where Zaluski's prowess and…
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      MY SECOND STAGE

      MY SECOND STAGE Cover
      by LovelyMay In the second stage of its development, the slander evolves from a weak and harmless notion into a powerful entity that rapidly gains strength by exploiting the vulnerabilities of human perceptions and emotions. Originally stemming from a seemingly innocuous origin, it becomes a significant force within the social ecosystem of the parish, mirroring the rapid development observed in simple organisms as explained by scientists. The slander’s journey continues as it seeks to infiltrate more minds, aiming…
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      MY FIRST STAGE

      MY FIRST STAGE Cover
      by LovelyMay In the quiet, picturesque yet socially stagnant town of Muddleton, the seeds of a slander were sown amidst the genteel clatter of tea and polite conversation at Mrs. O'Reilly's drawing room. Mrs. O'Reilly, a sociable widow with an insatiable appetite for gossip, introduces the scandal that Mr. Sigismund Zaluski, a resident of Muddleton and a Polish national, is a Nihilist—a revelation that stirs both shock and intrigue in her visitor, Miss Lena Houghton. The discussion delves into Zaluski's character,…
    • The Autobiography of A Slander Cover
      by LovelyMay The Autobiography of a Slander by Ambrose Bierce is a satirical short story in which slander narrates its own life, reflecting on how it spreads and causes harm, offering a biting commentary on human nature and the consequences of false accusations.
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      ACT IV -Ivanoff

      ACT IV -Ivanoff Cover
      by LovelyMay ACT IV of "Ivanoff" unfolds in the sitting-room of Lebedieff's house, elegantly prepared for a celebration. The act commences with Lvoff, a guest, indignantly contemplating the unjust triumphs of Ivanoff, whom he accuses of exploiting and discarding women for financial gain. Amid his resolve to expose Ivanoff's villainy, Kosich interrupts with a trivial card game story, highlighting the stark contrast between their concerns. The scene quickly turns to the impending marriage ceremony, revealing…
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      ACT II -Ivanoff

      ACT II -Ivanoff Cover
      by LovelyMay Act II of "Ivanoff" unfolds in Lebedieff's drawing-room, outfitted with expensive, linen-covered furniture and lighted by candelabra, where guests of various ages gather for a social event. Central to this gathering is Zinaida, hosting guests in celebration, presumably, of her daughter's birthday. Conversations unfold among the attendees, moving from polite greetings to deeper discussions of financial matters, societal observations, and personal grievances, revealing the complexities of their intertwined…
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      ACT I -Ivanoff

      ACT I -Ivanoff Cover
      by LovelyMay In the serene evening ambiance of Ivanoff's country estate, we encounter a colorful ensemble of characters each bringing their own vibrancy and turmoil. Ivanoff, the troubled protagonist, struggles with an internal remorse and ennui that alienates him from his once fervent love for his wife, Anna. She, on her part, suffers from both a physical ailment, consumption, and the emotional turmoil stemming from Ivanoff's growing indifference. Despite her condition, Anna retains a spirit of kindness and…
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