Summary:

"The Modesty of Sodom" by Gustave Guiches, translated by Brian M. Stableford, delves into the themes of decadence and morality in early 20th-century France. This novel offers a critical examination of societal norms and the human condition through its provocative narrative.

Originally published in 1888, The Modesty of Sodom, the outrageous text for which Gustave Guiches (1860-1935) is most remembered, is here presented for the first time in English, in a wonderful translation by -Brian Stableford. Still as avant-garde as ever, The Modesty of Sodom is one of the purest and most strident exercises of fin-de-siècle Decadent art. As well as employing colorful exotic terms, the author invents and improvises new ones freely, and the story contains several words found nowhere else, whose meanings have to be inferred from context or etymological analogies. It is a straight-faced black comedy, as the majority of exercises in literary decadence are, and its humor is appropriately scathing in its aggressive but amused assault on moral hypocrisy; it is very much a product of its time, but one which, alas, has by no means lost all its relevance in the historical interim.

In conjunction to the principal text, a second, "The Guardian Shades" is also here presented, again, in its first English language translation.

Editorial Reviews:

"A compelling and thought-provoking read. Stableford's translation brings Guiches' sharp critique of society to life." - Literary Classics Review

"An insightful exploration of morality and decadence. Guiches' work is both provocative and enlightening." - French Literature Journal

"Stableford's translation captures the essence of Guiches' original text, making this a must-read for fans of classic literature." - Historical Fiction Review

About the Authors:

Gustave Guiches was a French author known for his works exploring societal issues and human behavior. Brian M. Stableford is an acclaimed translator and author, recognized for his contributions to making French literature accessible to English-speaking audiences.