Local Hero: & Other Stories

People have asked me why I don't write a novel. Well, one or two people have asked me that. I always reply that I am a sprinter and not a long-distance runner. Indeed, I prefer the fifty to the hundred-yard dash. The short form is a lovely thing. For years I have admired its economy, its punch, its subtlety. It's a perfect vehicle for me because I like to cut to the chase, and I don't like long-winded descriptions. Then, too, I see life as a comedy rather than a tragedy. Tragedy works better with lots of words; whoever heard of a five-hundred-word tragedy? On the other hand, comedy can be short and sweet.Reader Comments on Menage a Trois by Jack Swenson"Short and interesting, really enjoyable. Hard to put the book down, knowing another little gem follows.""Courageous writing.""The author is a compassionate person who is very aware of the world around him.""Swenson has a knack for understated humor.""I am a fan!""Brilliant!""An amazing work."