Maxim Gorky said that no one understood the tragedy of lifes trivialities as clearly as Anton Chekhov, widely considered the father of the modern short story and the modern play. Chekhovs singular ability to speak volumes with a single, impeccably chosen word, mesh comedy and pathos, and capture lifes basic sadness as he entertains us, are why so many aspire to emulate him. meticulously cherry-picks from Chekhovs plays, stories, and letters to his publisher, brother, and friends, offering suggestions and observations on subjects including plot and characters (and their names), descriptions and dialogue, and what to emphasize and avoid. This is a uniquely clear roadmap to Chekhovs intelligence and artistic expertise and an essential addition to the writing-guide shelf.