Library Journal
Based on a true incident involving the mistress of Lord Byron, James's 1888 novella portrays the narrator's obsession with acquiring the private papers of a dead poet from the man's lover. This latest addition to Dover's wonderful "Thrift" line is currently the most affordable edition available. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.
Pulitzer Prize-winning literary critic Leon Edel
The story moves with the rhythmic pace and tension of a mystery story; and the double climax…gives this tale…high drama.”
AudioFile
One of the masterpieces of James’ middle period.”
University of Tokyo Claire Seymour
The narrator…experiences a sense of mystical fraternity with the spirit of Aspern, who he believes has ‘returned to earth to assure me he regarded the affair as his own no less than as mine’…At the close of the tale he is forced to seek consolation in the portrait of his deceased hero; however, his final words…illustrate the extent of his disillusionment and frustration.”
Guardian (London)
The Aspern Papers is haunted by the specter of past and future consummations, both achieved and desired, sexual and literary.”
JUNE 2016 - AudioFile
A plot, according to some critics, starts with a person with a problem. The unnamed narrator of this classic, ably narrated by Adam Sims, doesn't even know what his real problem is. Sims brings to life the protagonist's pursuit of some papers concerning the fictional poet Jeffrey Aspern, revealing along the way just how unaware he is of the effects of his actions on those around him. There is a considerable challenge in portraying a character who only inches toward self-awareness. Sims makes him sound young, callow, and almost—but not quite—likable. The narrator’s treatment of Tita Bordereau is callous, but Sims makes clear just who gains and who loses from the connection. D.M.H. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine
