Which Author Wrote One Good Thing As A Short Story?

2025-10-28 02:44:11 305

8 Answers

Julia
Julia
2025-10-30 13:32:57
Short and to the point: Raymond Carver wrote the story you’re thinking of, but the correct title is 'A Small, Good Thing'. It’s about a family’s grief after their son is hurt and a baker whose insistence on calling about a cake becomes a surprisingly tender moment. The story exemplifies Carver’s shift from stark minimalism to a warmer, restorative ending in his later collected work, 'Cathedral'. I always find that last scene lingers longer than the plot itself—simple, aching, and oddly comforting.
Benjamin
Benjamin
2025-10-31 23:41:05
If you meant a short story titled something like 'One Good Thing', there's a very good chance you're thinking of Raymond Carver's story 'A Small, Good Thing'. I ran into that mix-up myself—people often shorten or misremember the title because the phrase sticks in the head. Carver's tale is the one that centers on a birthday cake mix-up, a tragic accident involving a boy named Scotty, and a baker whose repeated phone calls escalate into a strange, sorrowful compassion.

The story appears in Carver's later, more generous version collected in 'Cathedral', and it exists in a famously pared-down earlier form called 'The Bath' (editorial history is part of why readers talk about it so much). What really gets me every time is how the ending transforms a bleak, minimalist setup into a small act of human consolation—the literal small good thing that saves the emotional day. I always recommend tracking down the restored 'A Small, Good Thing' if you want the full emotional payoff; it left a mark on me the first time I read it.
Flynn
Flynn
2025-11-01 13:44:13
Okay, quick and enthusiastic: the short story that people often mean when they say 'one good thing' is actually 'A Small, Good Thing' by Raymond Carver. I say that because I’ve seen the phrasing pop up on forums and in book chats, and Carver’s story is the little jewel most folks are pointing toward.

I first encountered it in a lit class where the professor had us compare the clipped, minimalist version with the expanded, kinder rewrite. What blew me away was how the story flips from cold, clinical sadness into this warm, human moment — not by grand gestures but through the shared act of eating and listening. Carver’s characters aren’t heroes; they’re ordinary people tangled in grief, and that makes the payoff hit harder.

If you want to find it fast, search for 'A Small, Good Thing' by Raymond Carver in short story anthologies or his story collections. It’s the kind of story that sticks with you after lights-out, which I suppose is why I keep telling friends about it.
Graham
Graham
2025-11-02 10:16:42
Short answer: Raymond Carver wrote the story most people mean — it's titled 'A Small, Good Thing'. People sometimes misremember or shorthand it as 'one good thing', but the published short story under that exact name is Carver’s. The narrative focuses on parents dealing with their child’s accident and the odd, human connection that forms around a baker’s insistent calls about a cake order; it’s spare, piercing, and ultimately tender. I love how Carver squeezes so much emotional depth into everyday scenes — it’s the kind of piece that gnaws at you and then, weirdly, soothes you with its small mercies.
Aiden
Aiden
2025-11-02 10:42:07
That question nudged something in my book-loving brain — the story you’re thinking of is most likely 'A Small, Good Thing' by Raymond Carver. I used to mix the title up too, since people sometimes shorten it in conversation to things like 'One Good Thing', but the canonical title is 'A Small, Good Thing'.

I’ve read both versions of the tale in different collections and what always gets me is how spare and human Carver’s prose is. The plot centers on parents dealing with a terrifying accident involving their child and the strange, escalating intrusion of a baker’s telephone calls about a cake order. The crescendo isn’t melodramatic — it’s quiet, devastating, and then oddly consoling. It’s about grief, miscommunication, and how ordinary gestures (food, presence) can become unexpectedly meaningful. If you’re chasing the specific piece, look in Carver’s post-Lish editorial era collections where the fuller, more generous version appears under the familiar title.

For anyone who enjoys short fiction that lands like a gut-punch and then leaves behind a small warmth, this is one I keep revisiting. It still makes me think about how small acts matter when words fail, and every reread uncovers a new little ache. I find that comforting in a strangely stubborn way.
Quincy
Quincy
2025-11-02 21:49:21
For a casual, late-night reader vibe: the author you're after is Raymond Carver, though the exact title is 'A Small, Good Thing' rather than 'One Good Thing'. The story's simple scaffold—birthday cake, a kid’s accident, an insistent baker—unspools into something quietly huge: grief, anger, and then an unexpected human bridge. I first encountered it curled up on the sofa and felt like someone had reached into an ordinary life and shown me how small mercies matter.

If you like stories that don't shout but still hit hard, this one is perfect. It made me re-evaluate how much warmth a single scene can carry, and I still think about that baker every few months.
Mason
Mason
2025-11-03 16:29:20
If you're into editorial history as much as the story, this one's interesting: the author behind 'A Small, Good Thing' is Raymond Carver. The tale has a complicated publishing life—Carver’s early drafts were heavily cut by his editor Gordon Lish, and a truncated version titled 'The Bath' circulated before the fuller, restored text appeared in 'Cathedral'. That restoration changes the emotional architecture of the piece; where the shorter version reads as razor-sharp bleakness, 'A Small, Good Thing' offers a slow accrual of tenderness.

I teach myself to notice how tiny sensory moments—stale bread, the smell of a bakery, the hum of hospital lights—are what Carver uses to move readers from shock to connection. It’s a masterclass in how revision and editorial choices alter meaning, and reading both versions (if you can find them) is a small literature lesson that stuck with me long after college.
Wesley
Wesley
2025-11-03 21:59:02
Okay, quick take from my book-obsessed brain: the story you're probably chasing is 'A Small, Good Thing' by Raymond Carver. People sometimes refer to it casually as 'one good thing' because the title lingers as a concept more than a label. Carver's storytelling here moves from braided domestic detail into pure feeling—two parents, a hospital, a disconnected baker—and that final scene where strangers share food and grief is the kind of quiet gut-punch Carver does best.

If you like background trivia, there's a whole conversation about editing: an earlier, leaner version circulated as 'The Bath' and editors famously trimmed Carver's drafts, so the version most of us fell in love with is the restored, more humane 'A Small, Good Thing' in the 'Cathedral' collection. It's a great gateway into his work and into minimalist fiction that still feels deeply human—definitely one of my go-to recommendations when someone wants a short, powerful read.
View All Answers
Scan code to download App

Related Books

One Heart, Which Brother?
One Heart, Which Brother?
They were brothers, one touched my heart, the other ruined it. Ken was safe, soft, and everything I should want. Ruben was cold, cruel… and everything I couldn’t resist. One forbidden night, one heated mistake... and now he owns more than my body he owns my silence. And now Daphne, their sister,the only one who truly knew me, my forever was slipping away. I thought, I knew what love meant, until both of them wanted me.
Not enough ratings
187 Chapters
Which One Do You Want
Which One Do You Want
At the age of twenty, I mated to my father's best friend, Lucian, the Alpha of Silverfang Pack despite our age difference. He was eight years older than me and was known in the pack as the cold-hearted King of Hell. He was ruthless in the pack and never got close to any she-wolves, but he was extremely gentle and sweet towards me. He would buy me the priceless Fangborn necklace the next day just because I casually said, "It looks good." When I curled up in bed in pain during my period, he would put aside Alpha councils and personally make pain suppressant for me, coaxing me to drink spoonful by spoonful. He would hug me tight when we mated, calling me "sweetheart" in a low and hoarse voice. He claimed I was so alluring that my body had him utterly addicted as if every curve were a narcotic he couldn't quit. He even named his most valuable antique Stormwolf Armour "For Elise". For years, I had believed it was to commemorate the melody I had played at the piano on our first encounter—the very tune that had sparked our love story. Until that day, I found an old photo album in his study. The album was full of photos of the same she-wolf. You wouldn’t believe this, but we looked like twin sisters! The she-wolf in one of the photos was playing the piano and smiling brightly. The back of the photo said, "For Elise." ... After discovering the truth, I immediately drafted a severance agreement to sever our mate bond. Since Lucian only cared about Elise, no way in hell I would be your Luna Alice anymore.
12 Chapters
Good AS Me
Good AS Me
The General Assembly, Recalling its relevant resolutions regarding the question of Palestine, Recalling also its relevant resolutions on the protection of civilians, including resolution 71/144 of 13 December 2016 on the status of the Protocols Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and relating to the protection of victims of armed conflicts, resolution 72/131 of 11 December 2017 on the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel and resolution 72/175 of 19 December 2017 on the safety of journalists and the issue of impunity, Recalling further the relevant reports of the Secretary-General, including the most recent report, of 14 May 2018, on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, Recalling all relevant resolutions of the Security Council, including, inter alia, resolutions 242 (1967) of 22 November 1967, 338 (1973) of 22 October 1973, 605 (1987) of 22 December 1987, 904 (1994) of 18 March 1994, 1397 (2002) of 12 March 2002, 1515 (2003) of 19 November 2003, 1544 (2004) of 19 May 2004, 1850 (2008) of 16 December 2008, 1860 (2009) of 8 January 2009 and 2334 (2016) of 23 December 2016,
Not enough ratings
4 Chapters
Spicy One Shots– short read
Spicy One Shots– short read
Experience Passion in Every Episode of Spicy One-Shot! Warning: 18+ This short read includes explicit graphic scenes that are not appropriate for vanilla readers. Get ready to be swept away by a collection of tantalizing short stories. Each one is a deliciously steamy escape into desire and fantasy. From forbidden affairs to unexpected encounters, my Spicy One-Shot promises to elevate your imagination and leave you craving more. You have to surrender to temptation as you indulge in these thrills of secret affairs, forbidden desires, and intense, unbridled passion. I assure you that each page will take you on a journey of seduction and lust that will leave you breathless and wet. With this erotica compilation, you can brace every fantasy, from alpha werewolves to two-natured billionaires, mysterious strangers, hot teachers, and sexcpades with hot vampires! Are you willing to lose yourself in the heat of the moment as desires are unleashed and fantasies come to life?
10
40 Chapters
Deep Inside (Erotica short story collections)
Deep Inside (Erotica short story collections)
WARNING: This book is dripping in sin. It contains unapologetically explicit smut—raw, steamy, and wildly taboo. If you're not into filthy fantasies, solo indulgence, beast x human, wolf x wolf or human heat, dominant billionaire bosses, fae seductions, or lust-fueled encounters with no strings attached, turn back now. But if you're craving a no-holds-barred ride through 170 explosive, pulse-pounding steamiest stories that will leave your body aching and your imagination on fire, welcome, my daring guest. Everything here is pure fantasy, purely mine. Read at your own risk... of intense arousal.
10
186 Chapters
Wrecking His Marriage (Short Story Collection)
Wrecking His Marriage (Short Story Collection)
Some love stories are destined to be destructive. In this gripping collection of short dark romance stories, explore the blurred lines of desire, betrayal, and forbidden passion. Each story delves into the chaotic world of an affair, where star-crossed lovers make dangerous choices and confront the fallout of their reckless hearts. From stolen moments to shattered lives, these characters learn the true cost of a love that can wreck everything. Brace yourself for a journey into the shadows, where secrets fester, and the most intoxicating love is often the most tragic. _____ Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. The characters, relationships, and events depicted are products of the author's imagination and are intended for entertainment purposes only. The author does not condone, romanticize, or encourage the toxic behaviors and actions of the characters, such as infidelity or harmful relationship dynamics. These elements are used for dramatic storytelling and do not reflect the author's real-life values or advice. This book is rated 18 and not suitable for young audiences.
Not enough ratings
9 Chapters

Related Questions

What Factors Determine The Highest Bounty In One Piece?

3 Answers2025-10-18 10:02:17
In 'One Piece', the concept of bounties is fascinating and layered, serving not just as a number but as a reflection of a character's strength, notoriety, and impact on the world. One of the primary factors determining a bounty is a character's combat abilities and the threat they pose to the World Government. For instance, figures like Monkey D. Luffy have astronomical bounties because he has continually showcased exceptional strength and resilience, not to mention his ability to rally other powerful pirates. This kind of leadership really fuels fear in those who uphold the government's authority. Another aspect is the character's actions against the Marines and the World Government. For example, individuals who challenge their laws or disrupt their operations tend to attract attention and ire. That’s why the likes of Roronoa Zoro and Trafalgar Law also capture such high bounties; they’ve directly opposed the forces of the World Government at pivotal moments. Not only do their battles escalate their notoriety, but they also highlight their courage. Moreover, the potential for future threat contributes to these figures’ bounties. The government often assesses not just what a character has done but what they might do in the future. This forward-thinking approach explains how characters like Shanks can have bounties despite their mysterious nature. Their reputations alone are enough to scare a government, hinting at their capability to shift the balance of power in the world. Ultimately, bounties in 'One Piece' give us a vibrant look at how fear, strength, and notoriety interplay in constructing a character's legacy, and I find it immensely engaging to see how these numbers evolve over time. Another fun layer is that bounties also stir up excitement among fans! We love speculating who might hit a new milestone and discussing the implications that would have for the plot. Whether a character's bounty will increase or if they'll face off against someone else with a hefty number is like anticipating the next grand battle in the series—it's thrilling!

Why Do Feel Good Memes Resonate With So Many People?

4 Answers2025-10-18 03:03:25
There’s a certain warmth that good memes bring to our lives, isn’t there? They have this magical ability to uplift moods and spread joy in mere seconds. Personally, I find that feel-good memes tap into our shared experiences and collective emotions. For instance, a meme depicting a cat cuddling with a dog gives off such an adorable vibe! It’s a lighthearted reminder that despite our differences, we can all get along. As someone who spends a good chunk of time on social media, I've noticed how often these motifs resonate. They’re like tiny remedies, poking fun at our quirks or simply making us smile after a long day. What’s fascinating is how humor can be therapeutic. Memes often capture the essence of our struggles, from navigating work-life balance to dealing with social pressures. They use clever wit or relatable scenarios that draw a smile, turning our worries into something laughable, even if just for a moment. When I see friends sharing memes about procrastination or the chaos of adulting, it's this magical sense of belonging. It's comforting to realize we all face these hurdles and can laugh alongside each other, even virtually. In the end, it's like the universe’s way of reminding us not to take life too seriously! A simple meme can initiate heartwarming conversations and shared laughter. I think feel-good memes resonate widely because they serve as a digital hug, connecting us in empathy and lighthearted humor, especially during tough times.

What Factors Contribute To The Highest Bounty In One Piece?

3 Answers2025-10-18 00:37:07
The world of 'One Piece' is so rich and intricate, and the bounty system is one of those fascinating elements that really adds depth to the story. The highest bounties are often tied to a variety of factors that showcase a character's strength, influence, and notoriety. Firstly, their combat abilities play a pivotal role. Characters like Monkey D. Luffy and Gol D. Roger have bounties that soar because they can take down powerful adversaries and have the potential to challenge the World Government itself. The more powerful the enemy they defeat or the greater the chaos they cause, the higher their bounty becomes. Another intriguing factor is the character's reputation. When someone becomes notorious, especially on a global scale, their bounty reflects that fear. For instance, Luffy’s actions against the Celestial Dragons and his involvement in the events of Marineford significantly boosted his visibility and thus his bounty! It’s almost like each character's journey in 'One Piece' feeds into their bounty, creating a cycle of risk and reward, and it’s thrilling to see how decisions lead to escalating consequences. Moreover, alliances and the affections of the people also come into play. Characters who inspire loyalty and admiration from large groups, like the Straw Hat Pirates, tend to have more significant bounties as they can rally more support and cause more trouble for any authority they oppose. It’s a blend of personal strength, public perception, and the impact on the wider world that results in those jaw-dropping bounties. That’s what makes watching these characters grow so enjoyable, doesn’t it?

How Does Luffy'S Character Differ In The One Piece Manga Vs Anime?

5 Answers2025-10-19 22:13:38
Luffy's character in 'One Piece' really showcases the beauty of adaptation, whether you’re flipping through the pages of the manga or tuning into the anime. In the manga, drawn by the talented Eiichiro Oda, Luffy's personality comes off as incredibly raw and sincere. There’s something about his expressive features and the way Oda uses his facial expressions that really captures the essence of Luffy's innocent yet determined spirit. You can feel the passion behind his dreams and his unwavering loyalty to his friends, which is often emphasized through the quick pacing of the manga. His intense drive to become the Pirate King translates beautifully in the panels, and his interactions with other characters feel more direct and genuine without the filler. On the flip side, the anime adaptation does a fantastic job of bringing Luffy to life with vibrant colors and dynamic voice acting. With the addition of sound effects and music, each moment feels amplified. While some might argue that the anime adds a bit of flair that the manga lacks, I actually find it enhances Luffy's character. The voice acting, especially from Mayumi Tanaka, captures his carefree yet earnest personality perfectly. When Luffy bursts out in laughter or gets serious in a battle, it’s like you can feel his emotions radiating through the screen. However, the pacing can sometimes drag due to filler episodes, which might make his character seem a bit more repetitive in some arcs. Another difference that stands out to me is how the anime sometimes takes moments from Luffy’s journey and expands on them. For instance, certain arcs dive deeper into his thought processes or backstories of supporting characters that might be more understated in the manga. This is especially evident in the Dressrosa and Whole Cake Island arcs, where the anime takes the time to explore the complicated relationships within the crew, giving us a more nuanced view of his leadership style and the friendships he nurtures. Although it may slightly shift focus from Luffy, it provides a richer backdrop that highlights his role as a captain. Ultimately, both versions have their merits, and whether you prefer the manga or the anime may depend on what you’re looking for. The manga is punchy, direct, and full of deep intricacies in art, whereas the anime offers an auditory and visual experience that brings out charm in Luffy’s character. No matter which medium you choose, Luffy's boundless optimism and determination are infectious, making him one of the most beloved characters in anime and manga history. I just can’t help but smile watching his adventures unfold, each bringing new lessons and excitement!

What Are Luffy'S Strongest Abilities In One Piece?

7 Answers2025-10-19 03:36:16
It's hard not to get fired up thinking about Luffy from 'One Piece'. His abilities show how he has evolved into such a formidable character, and it’s downright inspiring! First off, he possesses the Gum-Gum Fruit, which gives him rubber-like elasticity. This ability is not just for fun, as he can stretch his body to incredible lengths to launch powerful attacks. Think about how he turned simple punches into enormous strikes capable of knocking back mighty foes. It's like watching a kid with a slingshot grow to wield a cannon! Then there's Gear Second, an ability that boosts his speed and power thanks to the increased blood flow. It’s not just a flashy move; Luffy becomes a blur, attacking enemies with rapid-fire punches that can overwhelm even the most seasoned fighters. And let’s not overlook Gear Third, which inflates his body parts to gigantic proportions! Seeing him unleash an enormous punch or kick can send chills down your spine, showcasing just how versatile and smart he is in battle. Finally, the ultimate Gear Fourth ups the ante entirely. The Bounce Man and Tank Man forms allow him to blend speed with brute strength, giving him an edge that’s almost unfair. Each form is a testament to Luffy’s growth and creative thinking, and man, does it keep battles exciting! I can't help but cheer as he takes down giants and foes that seem unbeatable! His journey feels like ours sometimes; no matter how many challenges arise, he finds a way to adapt and overcome. Isn’t that something?

How Does Luffy Grow Throughout One Piece?

7 Answers2025-10-19 10:13:16
Luffy's evolution in 'One Piece' is nothing short of epic! Starting as this carefree, goofy kid who just wants to be the King of the Pirates, he’s got this wild energy that draws you in. As the story unfolds, we witness him embody challenges that sharpen his resolve. One of the most monumental moments for him comes during the Marineford War, where he grapples with loss and the harsh realities of the world he’s aiming to conquer. This isn’t just fun and games anymore—he begins to understand the weight of his dreams and the sacrifices that come with them. His relationships with his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, also deepen. From the naive boy who simply wanted friends to the captain who relentlessly supports his crew’s dreams, there's a significant transformation. With every terrifying opponent he faces—from Crocodile to Doflamingo and Kaido—Luffy’s character is molded by battles and camaraderie alike. I often find myself cheering for him, not just because of his strength but also for his unwavering loyalty and determination to protect those he cares about. The entire journey is a mix of laughter, tears, and heart-pounding moments, showcasing that growth isn't just physical; it's emotional and mental as well. By embracing the pains of his journey, Luffy solidifies what it means to be a true captain—not just a king. Watching him evolve encourages me to persevere in my ambitions, no matter how daunting they seem!

What Is Luffy'S Ultimate Goal In One Piece?

8 Answers2025-10-19 01:51:13
Setting out on an epic adventure, Luffy aims to become the King of the Pirates. This isn't just a whimsical dream; for him, it represents the ultimate freedom on the high seas. He deeply believes that finding the legendary treasure known as One Piece will validate his title. The Straw Hat Pirates are more than just a crew; they’re his family, and Luffy cherishes the bonds they share. His goal embodies not just personal ambition but a desire to unite people and forge a path where everyone can pursue their dreams. What makes this journey even richer is Luffy's sincere fascination with freedom. He doesn't just want to roam the ocean; he wants every corner of the world to belong to him and his friends. Every island they visit and every person they meet contributes to the larger story of camaraderie and aspiration. Luffy's dream reflects the quintessential spirit of adventure in 'One Piece', and it keeps encouraging others to chase their wildest dreams just like he does.

What Are Red Hair Shanks' Powers In One Piece?

4 Answers2025-10-19 04:20:54
Shanks, that iconic red-haired character from 'One Piece', has such a rich set of abilities that really make him stand out! Firstly, his mastery of Haki is legendary. He’s renowned for his use of both Observation and Armament Haki, which allow him to predict movements and enhance his physical attacks. I mean, the way he effortlessly stops attacks with pure Haki? Absolutely phenomenal! It's almost eerie how he just radiates confidence, like he knows he can take on anyone, and that’s not just bravado. Moreover, we can’t ignore his immense combat skills. Shanks is a swordsman of exceptional caliber—just look at how he fights; it’s fluid, precise, and incredibly powerful! That scene where he clashes with Mihawk definitely shows his expertise with the sword. Plus, there’s this mystery surrounding his Devil Fruit powers. While it hasn’t been explicitly confirmed what he can do, I wouldn't be surprised if he has a unique fruit to enhance his already formidable skills. He’s also the captain of the Red-Haired Pirates, which showcases his leadership abilities and the loyalty he inspires in his crew. Overall, Shanks is a well-rounded powerhouse, with mystery and depth that fans, including me, love to dissect. Just thinking about his interactions with Luffy really reminds me of how influential he is—not just in terms of power but in how he shapes others' destinies. His presence is magnetic, and his powers reflect that strength and charisma that keep fans coming back for more!
Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status