All Great Literature Is One Of Two Stories: Man Goes On Journey or Stranger

Great literature has always captivated readers with its ability to transport us to different worlds, explore unique perspectives, and challenge our understanding of the human experience. While there are countless plots and themes in literature, it can be argued that all great stories can be distilled into two fundamental narratives: "Man Goes On Journey" or "Stranger."

The Journey of Man

One of the most enduring storylines in literature is the journey of a protagonist. This narrative archetype resonates with readers as it mirrors our own personal journeys through life. From ancient epics like Homer's Odyssey to modern classics like J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the hero's journey has captured the imagination of millions.

In the "Man Goes On Journey" narrative, the protagonist embarks on a physical or metaphorical quest, facing numerous obstacles and trials along the way. This journey often serves as a metaphor for personal growth, self-discovery, and the triumph of the human spirit.

Leo Tolstoy - The First Distiller, A Comedy: “All great literature is one of two stories; a man goes on a journey or a stranger comes to town.”

by Rich Murphy(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	114 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	41 pages
Paperback	:	59 pages
Item Weight	:	4.6 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.83 x 0.14 x 8.27 inches

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Through this narrative, great literature explores universal themes such as perseverance, resilience, and the search for meaning. It allows readers to reflect on their own lives and contemplate the challenges they face.

The Encounter with the Stranger

On the other hand, literature is also replete with stories revolving around encounters with strangers. These narratives delve into the human psyche, examining themes of identity, acceptance, and the inherent complexity of human relationships.

When a stranger enters a protagonist's life, it often disrupts the familiar and challenges existing beliefs and values. This encounter brings about a sense of curiosity, danger, and transformation. Famous examples include Fyodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment and Albert Camus' The Stranger, where characters are confronted with enigmatic strangers who provoke existential questions.

The "Stranger" narrative allows readers to explore the boundaries of human existence, the fragility of our social constructs, and the consequences of our actions. It pushes us to question our own beliefs and prejudices, leading to self-reflection and growth.

The Interplay of Journey and Stranger

While the journey and stranger may appear as distinct narratives, they often intertwine in great literature. The protagonist's journey can be enriched and complicated by encounters with strangers, shaping their character and overall narrative arc.

Whether it is through unexpected companionship during a hero's quest or the revelation of a hidden truth by a mysterious stranger, the interplay between these two narratives adds depth and complexity to the story.

By weaving these narratives together, authors create multifaceted stories that resonate with readers on both emotional and intellectual levels. These stories teach us about the human condition, challenge our preconceived notions, and provide a window into different cultures and perspectives.

Whether it is the classic hero's journey or the enigmatic encounter with a stranger, all great literature showcases these two fundamental narratives in various forms. These narratives have the power to captivate us, provoke thought, and inspire us to explore the depths of our own personal journeys and encounters with the unknown.

So, the next time you dive into a great work of literature, ask yourself: is the protagonist embarking on a transformative journey or about to encounter a mysterious stranger? The answer may provide a key to unlocking the deeper layers of the story and offer a new perspective on the human experience.

Leo Tolstoy - The First Distiller, A Comedy: “All great literature is one of two stories; a man goes on a journey or a stranger comes to town.”

by Rich Murphy(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	114 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	41 pages
Paperback	:	59 pages
Item Weight	:	4.6 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.83 x 0.14 x 8.27 inches

FREE

Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy was born on September 9th 1828 into Russian nobility but abandoned his title and through his interpretation of the ethical teachings of Jesus became a fervent Christian anarchist and pacifist. His writings on non-violence were to have a profound impact on Gandhi and Martin Luther King. His reputation for many people is based on the epic, in length and scope, of his novel ‘War & Peace’. For that alone Tolstoy would be widely considered to be one of the greatest novelists of all time. But such was the breadth of his talents that he was consummate at short stories, essays and plays. Here we publish ‘The First Distiller’ one of those classic plays.