Ball-of-Fat

Written by Guy de Maupassant

Narrated by B. J. Harrison

A stagecoach containing a microcosm of French society seek to escape to Le Havre during the Prussian war. Stopping at an inn along the way, they soon realize they have blundered into Prussian occupied territory.

The travelers are not allowed to leave until one woman, a prostitute known as Boule de Suif, (literally suet dumpling, or ball of fat), sleeps with the commanding officer. This turn of events is met with universal indignation by the travelers. But as the days stretch out, everyone’s true colors are revealed.

Perhaps his most famous story, Guy de Maupassant’s masterful style, craft, and ability are all on full display. Adaptations of the story have made it to film, radio, and even opera, notably the 1939 John Ford film, Stagecoach.

• Language: English
• Publisher: B.J. Harrison
• Release date: Mar 1, 2012
• ISBN: 9781957934341

Guy de Maupassant

Guy de Maupassant was a French writer and poet considered to be one of the pioneers of the modern short story whose best-known works include "Boule de Suif," "Mother Sauvage," and "The Necklace." De Maupassant was heavily influenced by his mother, a divorcée who raised her sons on her own, and whose own love of the written word inspired his passion for writing. While studying poetry in Rouen, de Maupassant made the acquaintance of Gustave Flaubert, who became a supporter and life-long influence for the author. De Maupassant died in 1893 after being committed to an asylum in Paris.