THREE TALES

Flaubert's exacting prose has a particular affinity to the ear, and Andrew Wincott's narration of three late stories highlights the French master's style, and his verbal evocation of the senses. Flaubert's art is defined by keen observation of detail, precision of word choice, and command of prose rhythms, and Wincott stresses these qualities with an unhurried delivery that captures every nuance and never drops a syllable. The best known tale, "A Simple Heart," inspired Julian Barnes's novel FLAUBERT'S PARROT, which is available from three highly accomplished narrators, including Barnes himself. Paired with any one of these, Wincott's performance opens depths to the story unmatched on the page. The two remaining, unrelated tales are well narrated but of lesser interest. D.A.W. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2022]