New Arabian Nights - A Deep Dive Review

by Robert Louis Stevenson (Author)

Updated at: 28/01/2025

Robert Louis Stevenson's New Arabian Nights is a captivating collection of short stories that transport readers to a world of thrilling adventure and intricate intrigue. Inspired by the classic tales of One Thousand and One Nights, Stevenson masterfully weaves together elements of fantasy, mystery, and suspense. These interwoven narratives, featuring daring heists, shadowy figures, and unexpected twists, are not merely escapist adventures. Stevenson also delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of morality, fate, and the search for meaning. Prepare to be swept away by a series of enthralling tales that will keep you guessing until the very end, a testament to Stevenson's unparalleled storytelling prowess.

4.1 / 9 ratings

Review New Arabian Nights

Rediscovering Robert Louis Stevenson's New Arabian Nights felt like unearthing a forgotten treasure. I'd somehow acquired a copy years ago – a flea market find, I suspect – and it recently resurfaced from its Arizona exile. Holding this century-old volume, feeling the weight of its well-worn pages, was a thrill in itself. The book's opening “note,” a witty jab at a plagiarist, immediately set a charmingly mischievous tone, perfectly foreshadowing the delightful adventures to come.

Before diving in, my experience with Stevenson was limited to the youthful escapades of Kidnapped and Treasure Island. New Arabian Nights, however, revealed a different facet of his genius, a more mature and worldly storytelling prowess. These weren't tales for children; these were intricate narratives for a sophisticated audience, brimming with dark humor, dramatic flair, and intricately plotted suspense.

The collection is a diverse tapestry woven from six distinct threads, each a captivating story in its own right. From the comical predicament of a young man accidentally trapped in a mysterious house to the nocturnal escapades of a Parisian theatrical couple locked out of their hotel, Stevenson’s imagination knew no bounds. But it was "The Suicide Club" that truly captivated me. This chilling tale, involving a European prince embroiled in a society dedicated to orchestrated death, is a masterpiece of suspense and dark irony. The prince’s naive assumption of safety, his pride preventing retreat, and the macabre consequences that ensue create a narrative that’s both thrilling and unsettling.

What struck me most was the originality of each story. Set in the vibrant backdrops of London and Paris, spanning both the 1400s and the late 1800s, these tales offered a captivating glimpse into different eras and social contexts. They explored the complexities of the human condition, weaving together themes of greed, revenge, murder, and even unexpected love. Each narrative was packed with twists and turns, keeping me utterly engrossed from beginning to end. Stevenson's skill in creating such clever and captivating plots is truly remarkable. The stories were, in a word, brilliant.

My only complaint, and it's a significant one for the reading experience, relates to the formatting of my particular edition. The lack of paragraph indentation made for exceptionally difficult reading. This purely practical issue unfortunately detracted from what would otherwise have been a flawless five-star experience. The text itself deserves the highest praise, but the presentation let it down considerably. Had my copy been properly formatted, I wouldn't hesitate to give New Arabian Nights the highest possible rating. Nevertheless, Stevenson's storytelling mastery shines through even in the flawed presentation, solidifying his place as a literary giant whose work warrants further exploration. I'm definitely seeking out more of his writings; I have a feeling he's got a very bright literary future ahead of him – even if it is a posthumous one.