Moon-Face, and Other Stories

A nameless narrator becomes consumed by an irrational, almost primal dislike for a cheerful, moon‑faced farmer whose booming laughter seems to echo through every corner of the countryside. The story follows the narrator’s mounting obsession, as he watches the farmer’s carefree life unfold even as hardship strikes, and devises increasingly ruthless schemes to sabotage the man’s livelihood. Through vivid, unsettling details—stolen cattle, a poisoned dog, and a barn set ablaze—the narrative explores how envy can warp perception and drive ordinary people to dark deeds.

The tale unfolds with a sharp, almost sardonic tone, capturing the tension between the narrator’s inner turmoil and the farmer’s unshakable optimism. As the conflict escalates, the reader is drawn into a psychological duel where the line between justified resentment and madness blurs. “Moon‑Face” offers a compelling glimpse into the destructive power of unchecked hatred, leaving listeners eager to hear how the confrontation will finally unfold.