A Group of Eastern Romances and Stories from the Persian, Tamil and Urdu

This volume gathers a lively selection of Eastern romances and short stories drawn from Persian, Tamil, and Urdu traditions. The tales were chosen for their vivid portrayal of everyday life and the extraordinary imagination that colours the folklore of these cultures. As an introduction and set of notes accompany each piece, listeners gain helpful context that brings the narratives into clearer focus.

Within the collection you’ll encounter modest village scenes alongside grand, jewel‑adorned palaces, encounters with mischievous jinn, and moments of magical transformation. Some stories stay firmly grounded, offering gentle moral reflections, while others revel in the supernatural, showcasing the timeless allure of ghosts, omens, and enchanted objects. The appendix adds a brief sketch of the famed romance of Hatim Taï, inviting further curiosity about the region’s legendary heroes.

Whether you seek a soothing escape from daily routine or a glimpse into the customs, superstitions, and humor of the East, these narratives invite the listener to wander through vivid worlds where wonder and humanity intertwine.