The stories and short stories included in this collection were written by Irwin Shaw at various times and span a wide range of genres—from his signature psychological realism to the almost action-packed 'The Dead Jockey's Mistake' and the amusing, witty parable 'Unheard Voices.' Some are thoughtful and sad, others playful and cheerful, some display good-natured humor, and others a wicked irony. However, all are distinguished by the profound understanding of human nature and the human soul that characterizes the author of 'Rich Man, Poor Man' and 'The Night Porter.'