Short Synopsis
Beginners is the original manuscript of Raymond Carver’s seminal 1981 collection, What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.

Full Synopsis
Here is the original manuscript of Raymond Carver's seminal 1981 collection, What We Talk About When We Talk About Love. Carver is one of the most celebrated short-story writers in American literature—his style is both instantly recognizable and hugely influential—and the pieces in What We Talk About . . ., which portray the gritty loves and lives of the American working class, are counted among the foundation stones of the contemporary short story. In this unedited text, we gain insight into the process of a great writer. These expansive stories illuminate the many dimensions of Carver’s style, and are indispensable to our understanding of his legacy.

“One of the great short story writers of our time—of any time.” ---The Philadelphia Inquirer

“Carver is a writer of astonishing compassion and honesty. . . . His eye is so clear, it almost breaks your heart.” ---The Washington Post Book World

“Fascinating. . . . Exquisite. . . . It must be read.” ---Scotland Herald

“Surprising and genuinely moving.” ---The Guardian